What is too much, too little, and how can we best deal with this mess we’ve created while still living our ultimate existences?

A woman’s exploration into meditation, colorful saris, and mosquito bites – after experiencing deep heartache at home – will probably forever be imprinted on people’s brains as Elizabeth Gilbert’s tribute to India in Eat, Pray, Love. Last year’s movie of the same name further equates a famous female star, Julia Roberts, with experiencing profound change in the land of the Ghanges. But Gilbert’s tale is her own, and shouldn’t discount the transformation of others who escape to India for the solace this place seems to provide.

I’ve rarely heard the words “mission statement” as it relates to individuals. It was just in the last few months in a beautiful Sunday class I’m a part of that this concept was brought forth to me. And not in a work/career way (though this can be a part of it), but rather a soul way. It makes perfect sense – who doesn’t need a compass to refer back to, especially in times of stormy weather and plentiful pain? Having a soul missive to re-read when we are caught outside of ourselves is like touching a hot stove to see if it is still hot – it jolts us back to the present.