Finding Your Own Path and Living Serenely with Meister Eckhart
How a medieval Dominican friar, with his timeless wisdom, can guide us to a more individual pilgrimage journey and inner freedom.
Dear Pilgrims,
A few years ago, I discovered Meister Eckhart’s concept of serenity – at a time when I was anything but calm and balanced. In a world that is, as the saying goes, “in flames” and where societal pressure is omnipresent, there often seems to be no room for inner peace. And yet, this Dominican friar from the 13th and 14th centuries shows us a path that continues to inspire today.
Meister Eckhart – A Preacher of His Time
Meister Eckhart was much more than a reclusive hermit:
Within his order, he assumed significant roles – as General Vicar, preacher and initiator of reforms in Thuringia, Strasbourg and Cologne.
His progressive religious doctrines even led to a heresy trial. Nevertheless, it is precisely his appeal to let go of expectations and one’s own ego that holds the key to a simple, serene life.
Eckhart’s ideas have shaped theological and philosophical thought for centuries and still resonate today – he must have grasped something fundamental.
Rethinking Pilgrimage – The Individual Path
Within the pilgrim community, a rigid canon often prevails:
It is believed that “proper” pilgrimage must consist solely of a quiet walk in nature – alone or in silent company, with simple gear, austere sustenance and overnight stays in modest hostels. Technological aids, comfortable accommodations or motorised transport are rejected, as are alternative, individual expressions of pilgrimage.
Yet my experiences – and those of many other pilgrims – show:
There is no secret recipe for enlightenment. Everyone follows their own path, gathering unique experiences and pursuing individual goals. Instead of adhering rigidly to preconceived notions, we should question our own expectations and simply let our journey unfold.
Four Steps to Inner Freedom According to Eckhart
Meister Eckhart encourages us to detach ourselves from external authorities and to critically question the prescribed rules. His concept of the “poverty of spirit” – a state in which we are free from excessive desires and preconceptions – is less a matter of external deprivation than a profound inner attitude. Much like modern practices of mindfulness and self-reflection, it is not about external rituals but about the conscious experience of the moment.
These four steps are based on Eckhart's teachings and could bring you closer to inner freedom:
Practice Serenity and Self-Reflection:
Instead of constantly chasing after our short-sighted desires, we should allow life to come to us and accept reality. The conscious letting go of our own expectations is often the most challenging, yet crucial, step. Take the space to reflect on yourself and learn to uncover your own patterns.
Find Your Own Path:
There is no predetermined method to achieve inner freedom. Whether through pilgrimage, meditation or other spiritual practices, what matters is that the chosen path remains authentic and does not become an end in itself.
Understand the Journey as a Process:
Our life is a continuous process, never coming to a complete halt. Every step brings us closer to a deeper insight – be it of God or of a higher principle.
Gain Insights Through Action:
True insights arise not solely from contemplation, but above all through concrete actions. When we translate our inner freedom into acts of love, charity and practical help, we demonstrate our willingness to put the will of God or a higher power into action.
Invitation to Self-Reflection
Like Meister Eckhart, who remained in constant motion despite all challenges, we too can harness our energy to actively effect change.
Consider this: Which expectations are weighing you down? And how might you let them go in order to pursue your very own pilgrim’s journey with greater freedom?
I warmly invite you to reflect on your own expectations and individual path. Also consider joining me on one of my group pilgrimages, either in Berlin or in the autumn on a pilgrimage to Rome.
Buen Camino,
Alexander