The Vertiginous Current

When we dip our toes into the water of any serious pursuit, a transformation takes place. The very act of searching causes a fundamental change within us as we learn and grow and apply ourselves with a dedicated, focused commitment.

This can happen with anything that fully captures our heart and mind – whether it’s baking bread, building bridges or beekeeping. But perhaps the change is most intense for those who find themselves dipping a toe into the spiritual waters. 

In the Buddhist tradition, a person who sets out on the spiritual path is called a “stream-enterer." It’s said that once we enter the stream with a sincere intent, there’s no turning back – we’ve begun the journey to enlightenment. 

A similar reference to a stream can be found in the Christian context. In her book The Hidden Face: A Study of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, Ida Friederike Görres wrote:

“Whoever seriously sets out along this stream surrenders to a vertiginous current which inexorably rushes towards a cataract: complete abandonment.”

Surrendering to a wild current may sound like a terrifying experience – quite contrary to the popular notion of spirituality as a flower-lined trail of peace and serenity. But in fact, complete abandonment may be the key we're looking for. When we find ourselves in whitewater rapids, abandoning the struggle against the flow is the quickest and most effortless way to reach the end of a stream.

These are just a few thoughts to reflect on. Whichever stream in life may be beckoning you to enter it – baking bread, building bridges, beekeeping or perhaps a more spiritual stream – I wish you joy, success and the ecstasy of abandonment in your journey.

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Photographer's Footnote: The vertiginous waters shown above were photographed on the shore of Monastery Beach, California.