Unity of Springfield, Illinois

A Prayer in the Middle of the Wilderness
by Rich Orloff

I keep finding myself in the wilderness
Each time surprised that I’m here
Believing that this time I was sure
I had skillfully avoided the wilderness
On my journey from one side of the forest to the other

How did I get here?
Did a Divine power expel me here?
All I know is I feel lost
Far away from all I know
And from safety
And from holiness
And even my soul

While my loud voice cries for a way out
Another voice whispers
Get to know your wilderness
Look for the gifts
Let the paths appear
Look for wisdom smarter than your thoughts
Open yourself to the holiness of strange places

The wilderness will surround you
Until you stop being afraid of it
It is only after you become comfortable in the wild
That you’ll finally find yourself on the other side
And possibly
Yearning to return