Because the Soul is Shy

“The soul is like a wild animal—tough, resilient, savvy, self-sufficient and yet exceedingly shy. If we want to see a wild animal, the last thing we should do is to go crashing through the woods, shouting for the creature to come out. But if we are willing to walk quietly into the woods and sit silently for an hour or two at the base of a tree, the creature we are waiting for may well emerge, and out of the corner of an eye we will catch a glimpse of the precious wildness we seek.” Parker Palmer from A Hidden Wholeness

I am spending the summer preparing for “My Life Expedition” spiritual formation groups that will begin this fall. I realize one of the ways God will work in these groups is through the face of grace seen in fellow group participants.

It’s so strange to me that so many say they hate confrontation, yet they size up the situations of others, giving advice in hopes of “fixing” without realizing that this also is a form of confrontation.

There are times and places for confrontation and advice giving, such as close friendships, mentoring relationships, in recovery groups, and discipleship settings. In such settings we often give advice and swap stories and it’s actually healthy if done in love (coming from safe people).

However, in spiritual formation groups we learn to trust God to do any confrontation that needs to take place. We know the Holy Spirit is not only more effective at it, but is also gentler. Therefore, we sit across from one another giving our utmost attention. We exhibit kind, accepting expressions. We provide a safe atmosphere that allows people to take their life stories out of the box in which they have kept them safely locked.

And then we watch God work.

As we do, we get a front row seat to glimpse the shy, wild soul come out of hiding… sensing we are on holy ground.