MARI TRAVELS #1

Coming out to the wilds of New Mexico to draw a close on a past very intense 18 months was completely worth it.

The first time I came out to New Mexico was in 2017. I spent two weeks exploring, resting and soaking in hot springs. I had some open eyed experiences/visions with God that rocked my world… probably a whole other post (*book?*) It set me up for three years of graduate theology school. It grounded me in experiences with Love that could never be taken.

Love is the better thing.

It is the thing that will not be taken.

All the other things pass away.

It’s very clear out here for me in these little mountain towns by the mesas. Things are simple.

One of the things that New Mexico has taught me is what true wealth is.

This is not a fancy state in economic terms.
New Mexico’s wealth lies in the wide open sun, the healing hot springs, the beauty on every side and the simple rhythms of life.
With few exceptions, people here are open minded, health minded and rest minded.

Staying in a little cabin in the mountains of northern New Mexico was healing.

Sure, I jumped out of my skin every time a squirrel ran over the roof because I was alone alone in the middle of the Carson National Forest.
When the Airbnb lady pulled up in a truck unannounced, I miiiight have screamed bloody murder.

But the silence healed me.

It’s in the silence that the Voice I know speaks loudly

About what really matters.
And about what Love is.

It’s in the silence that you can say the words that need to be said.
And you can hear the response.

I will also say that in the silence, gratitude is formed.
Gratitude for things like sun, soaking in hot springs, simple food…

And for a rich spiritual life.

This is what New Mexico has taught me

Over four different visits.
The beauty of the simple.

And the simple is where true wealth is.

I love this state.

Below are a few recommendations from the road
with a really cute acronym, TRAVELS.

Been working in a lot of coffee shops to make this little publication happen. Would you consider becoming a paid subscriber and fueling my caffeination needs? For the cost of a coffee, you can support my dream of writing.

In coming months, these TRAVELS recommendation posts and an online community chat board will be available to paid subscribers.
For now, below are some recommendations from the road.

Substack