Soul Searching

        "When we hear the phrase 'soul searching' we think about looking within, taking stock or inventory, or looking to see what needs to be done, or reviewing a situation. It is inner viewing, an inner look at whatever needs to be examined - checking the list of possibilities and options and trying to find a guideline for future actions as we examine and re-examine. It is going deeper into a problem, a search for answers. There is not enough soul searching. Perhaps it is because it has such a heavy sound to it, because there is such a sense of seriousness that people feel they have to be in a specific frame of mind to search.

        Searching the soul does not have to be a heavy, serious response or action. We can go within and search the soul with lightness. This does not mean that it isn't taken seriously, but simply that the attitude can be one of search as in searching for truth. When we lose something valuable, we search with intent and sometimes frustration. The longer we search, the more frustrated we become. Perhaps individuals approach a spiritual search in the same way. The intent is there, but if an answer is not found, the sense of frustration grows and the search stops.

        Searching the soul should not be approached as an adventure although one may approach the inner path as a journey full of unknowns. If it is an answer to a problem, sometimes the search is too intense and the answer is missed. There has to be the intent, of course, but it is the attitude that will help bring results. Often we are too hard on ourselves. We carry guilt or judgement toward ourselves. If one can go on a soul search without preconceived ideas, and approach without judgement or guilt, then it is easier to see more options that might appear. It is easier to have insight and ideas surface. You might say leave the 'baggage' at home, meaning the 'baggage' of regret and self incrimination. Simply search with an open mind and if an answer is not found, then search again but not with a sense of frustration, but an awareness that it just may take time for insight to appear.

        Make your search short enough in duration that fatigue does not interfere. If nothing comes at first, then simply resolve to try again. There should not be a sense of failing or not doing it right. Soul searching, taking a look, experiencing, is beneficial in itself. Take a peek and see the light within."