This picture was taken at the Old Railroad Tunnel outside of Fredericksburg, Texas. It was cut through the hard granite of the Hill Country many years ago and has been abandoned for decades. Abandoned by humans! Mexican Bats still migrate into the Hill Country each year and many have made this their Northern Home during the warmer months.
As I stood and imagined what it would be like to walk through that Tunnel, I imagined that it would be OK as long as I could see the other end. (I could only imagine because the tunnel is reserved only for the bats and humans are always unwelcome.) That light at the end of the tunnel would help me find my bearing, discern the obstacles in the path, and have hope that I would find my way through the darkened gloom. As long as I could see the light at the end of the tunnel I could endure the journey even though I would be surrounded by squeaking, flying bats.
But what happens when that light disappears? I would be come disoriented and confused. My anxiety would start to grow and overwhelm my ability to really “see” what was going on, even inside my self. Fear would intrude itself so that my choices would be more determined by what could happen than what would likely happen. I would find myself second-guessing every choice and spending more energy wondering if I was doing the right thing than actually doing it!
What do we do when the Light at the end of the tunnel goes out?
If we are traveling with a trusted companion, we reach out for their hand. A good companion who is willing to share our “lostness” can make all the difference. The touch of a familiar hand in the darkness reminds us that we are not alone. Together, you can keep each other grounded in reality and stumble your way either back to the entrance or find another way out of the darkness.
But whether there is a companion with you or not, you need to be able to “shine some light on your world.” In the tunnel a flashlight, candle, or lighter will help you “see” your immediate situation and calm the anxiety that leads to incapacitating fear. It will give you the information you need to make an informed choice to find your way through the darkness.
A trusted companion and a little light will help replace the hope that was lost when the light at the end of the tunnel went out. If you have grown a deep capacity for trust in your companion and hope in your situations, you will find your way through any darkness. Your anxiety will be held in check. Your fears will be calmed. Your mind will be able to make more informed choices and the second guessing will be held to a minimum.
And so, if your path includes a tunnel or two it would be a good idea to always stay close to a trusted companion. Keep your trust and hope charged up with regular feats of love and joy. Even when the lights go out, we will find our way.
Enjoy the Journey!