When I think about spiritual direction for women, mothers and caregiving bodies, I think of the character Ana in The Book of Longings by Sue Monk Kidd. Ana wants a different life than one she’s been born into. A life removed of patriarchal walls between her and the dreams of feminist academia beating in her chest - studying ancient texts, reading and writing. The underlying theme? Ana wants the women of scripture to have a voice; and thus, must claim her own along the way.

Of course, it’s not an easy journey.

But really, what story is all ease?

Instead, suffering and joy co-exist. For Ana (and for many of us) loss after loss occurs. Trials separate all of us from good and God. And yet, Ana’s experience is witnessed and attended to by fierce, soulful companionship (and us, the readers, too). In the end, her life and her voice is found in part because of these witnesses.

I can say the same of my own journey.

I believe that for certain experiences and in many different seasons and times, we need someone to witness us. Our expansion and contraction. Our growth and our grief. I often say that our time together in spiritual direction is part the art of anam cara or soul friendship & part spiritual midwifery. It is the offer of solid ground and safety as you ponder and wander through what’s complicated and complex. It is the gift of  spiritual companioniship that supports you in hearing your own voice & that of the God of your understanding. Most importantly, it is an open-hearted space where “you can be reflected to you” as you pursue the wisdom, radiance and resilence of your own soul.

Here, you are seen.