Reflect

The ancient Broomway off the coast of Essex, England is the country’s most dangerous public byway. It’s passable only at low tide, and in rain or fog it’s easy to become quickly disoriented. Without clear guideposts, everything looks the same in every direction, and the traveler becomes vulnerable to the swift-moving, incoming tide. Fortunately, most ordinary days aren’t as risky as walking the Broomway, but every traveler through life needs a set of guideposts and touchstones — some mix of wise elders, treasured books, sacred vows, generous friends. These are the people, things, and practices we’ve chosen to help us to live in alignment with our personal true north. When we neglect these or forget to seek new ones as we grow, it’s easy to lose our way. We amble along, swept up not by the North Sea tide but perhaps by the larger cultural currents. Sooner or later, we discover we’re heading away from shore, not toward it. Finding your own path matters, but so does staying connected to what helps you find your way.