The trail seemed endless for the Wanderer. His feet had traveled more paths than they could count. It was as if something was pulling him forward, no matter of any outward accomplishment.

While climbing a mountain pass, the Wanderer saw an old Sadhu sitting cross-legged next to a small river with the clearest water he ever saw. The Sadhu was surrounded by profound stillness as if he was emitting it.

Before a word was spoken, the stillness felt as if it unveiled layers of the Wanderer’s psyche.

“What is it you seek with such restless determination?” the Sadhu asked.

The Wanderer puffed his chest outward. “I am the conqueror of countless challenges. I seek nothing more than the next horizon.”, he said in an arrogant tone.

Rather than being impressed, the Sadhu’s eyes crinkled knowingly. “You wear the armor of the ego well.”

Puzzled, the Wanderer replied, “My ego has been an steadfast ally, pushing me to constantly evolve beyond each limitation.”

“The ego is a valuable tool for experience, but a poor master,” the Sadhu said. “Untempered, it builds walls of limiting beliefs and assumptions that estrange you from the wisdom of your soul.”

The Wanderer’s ego bristled, fearing the loss of its hard-won dominance. But, the Wanderer somehow felt that the Sadhu’s words held a truth within.

“How does one find the wisdom of their soul without abandoning the source of their growth?” the Wanderer asked.

The Sadhu smiled. “You need not destroy the ego, but allow it to become a focused partner rather than a belligerent ruler. Observe.”

Falling silent, the Sadhu simply gazed at the stream’s gentle flow. The Wanderer felt an uncanny stillness descending upon him as well. He never felt this way before, he sensed peace and an expanding awareness within him. Images, feelings and knowings came out of nowhere.

For a brief moment the Wanderer got a glimpse in his infinite nature and the relationship between his human and divine aspect.

Then his ego came back.

“I…sensed something,” the Wanderer said. “But I have the feeling my ego is back.”

The Sadhu smiled. “This is why the journey seems long. You were given a glimpse so that your quest may continue with refreshed passion and deeper commitment.”

The Wanderer replied, “I have much to integrate and even more to rediscover. Please guide me; I will be a devoted student.”

“Wonderful,” the Sadhu replied. “We have work to do.”