Clearing in the Forest

This is what I believe:

That I am I.

That my soul is a dark forest.

That my known self will never be more

than a little clearing in the forest.

That gods, strange gods, come forth

into the clearing of my known self

and then go back.

That I must have the courage to let

them come and go.

That I will never let mankind put anything

over me, but that I will try always to recognize

and submit to the gods in me and the gods

in other men and women.

STUDIES IN CLASSIC AMERICAN LITERATURE

D. H. Lawrence

There is something about this poem that truly speaks to me.  It resonates within me with every reading and stirs my inner 'knowings' with certainty. 

In the past, I have always used the word 'veil' to describe  unexpected moments seen with precise clarity.  The veil is pulled to the side and spiritual vision comes into focus bringing understanding to elements of life otherwise indescribable.  The moment passes and the veil slides elegantly back into place leaving the viewer at a loss for explanation.  There are no words in our language to explain what the eyes have seen and the heart has heard.

The unexpected moments of 'knowing', I believe, are the same as the 'strange gods' mentioned in this piece.  Spiritual intelligence or whatever term comfortably used, nudges us into an awareness so we can receive insight, encouragement, and rekindled faith. 

The unfortunate part is the brevity of the experience.  It is never lengthy as a vision might be or as detailed as a dream.  It is simply a pocket in time where an other worldly impression is made with all senses responding and miraculously understanding. 

The experience passes as quickly as it arrives.  In the passing instant the entire universe has been opened to detailed comprehension, but only leaving a vague memory. 

Is Divine Spirit really... out there ... or does this supreme power also reside within each human being?  If this deity could be seen deep inside each of us, would be quite so eager to kill and destroy or would integrity and diversity prevail.

I believe my life is more peaceful when I listen with my compassionate heart, respecting the spirits within me as well as the strange gods residing in others. 

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