“My Lord God, I have no idea where I am going. I do not see the road ahead of me. I cannot know for certain where it will end. Nor do I really know myself, and the fact that I think that I am following your will does not mean that I am actually doing so….”
~ Thomas Merton
Thomas Merton's prayer of searching is a powerful expression of the human quest for meaning, purpose, and connection. This prayer can inspire us to embrace a spirit of curiosity, openness, and inclusivity in our own spiritual journey.
In this prayer, Merton expresses his deep yearning for a sense of belonging and connection, and his recognition of the many obstacles that can stand in the way of this connection. He acknowledges the importance of surrendering his own ego and preconceptions in order to open himself up to the divine, recognizing that his own limitations and biases can be stumbling blocks in his quest for truth and understanding.
Consider that the prayer of Thomas Merton might be seen to emphasize the importance of self-reflection, humility, and a willingness to engage with a diversity of perspectives and ideas. It would encourage all of us to remain open to new possibilities, recognizing that there are many paths to meaning and fulfillment, and that our understanding of the divine is always evolving.
Overall, Thomas Merton's prayer of searching can inspire us to approach our own spiritual journey with a sense of wonder, curiosity, and humility, recognizing that our search for meaning and connection is a lifelong process that is continually evolving. It can encourage us to remain open to new ideas and perspectives, and to engage in acts of compassion and service that reflect our deep yearning for connection and our commitment to a just world for all.