The Voice of Despair whispered into the night,
"Are you there?"
And the Voice of Love replied,
"Where else would I be?"
There comes a time in each individual's life when a voice in the very depth of one's soul begs to be heard. No longer able to remain silent, this voice cries out that something needs to change. And a profound realization takes hold that this is something no one can do for us; we alone must initiate that change. This brings to mind an unforgettable encounter with a veteran of the Vietnam war, a hero who shared with me a heartrendering story of how, upon returning home from serving his country, he had great difficulty settling back into what had been his life before Nam. Sadly, his existence became one of alcohol and drug abuse to cope. Yet in his eyes glowed the flame of victory, as he spoke proudly of having turned his life around, which he credited to God and a 12-step program he was blessed to have found his way to during his lowest point. Then he smiled and said, "I think perhaps the same may be true of you; that you also found yourself in need of turning your life around. But, from the looks of it, your way appears to involve a great many more steps than mine." And as we shook hands before parting, our kindred souls bowed with respect to the sublime mystery by which survivors recognize one another. Soulwalk is, indeed, a program founded on countless steps, born of a supreme purpose and solemn promise that henceforth not a single step will be walked alone. But that first step must come from your heart in the form of a commitment to improve your life, coupled with a willingness to accept assistance and guidance as needed. Learning to walk all over again requires even more fortitude the second time around. The moment has arrived: Acknowledge it and look within for the courage to embrace it. Then let the miracle begin...