Some pilgrimages aren't physical.  What I mean is, sometimes, we take pilgrimages of the spirit, the mind, or the soul while our body stays in one place.  That's been happening to me this week as I have struggled with a few health problems. 

My struggle has caused me to lose heart, to become despondent, to feel lost.  And yet, through it all, I have not felt alone.  God has been beside me.  I feel his presence. I have even seen the glimmer of hope for a better tomorrow, all because of God's light and love.  I've learned new ways to pray, and discovered, again, that even in the darkest hour, he is there. 

I come to this Sunday morning with a new ray of hope in my heart.  This pilgrimage isn't over yet, but I'm still learning...learning from God, from my body, from my spirit and from my heart.  Each day is mine to live, and live to the fullest.  And for that, I thank God.