(Posted on August 1, 2013 by David McMillin)
[NOTE: While serving as mentor for an online version of "A Search For God" study group and working on the Destiny of the Mind lesson, several class members shared experiences with "signs" of various sorts and the possible contributions and distractions often associated with signs. Here are a couple of my replies to provide a sense of those interactions. – David McMillin]
As you have observed, signs do have a place on the spiritual path. We can become aware through astrological influences, past lives (reincarnation), powerful dreams, psychic premonitions, synchronicities of various sorts, etc. All of this can be helpful to "Know Thyself" and even provide guidance at times. However, the readings make a distinction between recognizing "signs along the way" (as a natural part of growth and development) rather than "seeking after signs." Sometimes "seeking after signs" can take on the quality of predestination or fate and decrease our ability to use will in a constructive way. In other words, we can become dependent upon signs as destiny rather than simply as an indication of our direction and progress in our Search For God:
Also ye wonder - doth the time of birth, the place of the environment, make or have a part in destiny? Do the days or the years, or the numbers, all have their part? Yea, more than that! Yet, as has been given, all these are but signs along the way; they are but omens; they are but the marks that have indicated – for, as given, He has set His mark, and these are SIGNS, not the destinies! For the destiny of the mind, of the body, of the soul, is with Him. (262-75)
As you have also observed in your own experience, the ultimate use of will leads to Oneness with God that comes from attunement – Thy will be done. That is our Destiny. But it is a matter of our own choice as to how and when we get there, which makes for a very interesting (and at times challenging) journey. Blessings, Dave
Thanks for sharing your insights with "signs." I have heard many similar stories over the years from others as well as direct experience in my own life. As you have noted, it is possible to become dependent upon signs and allow them to become a distraction on the spiritual path (hence "seeking after signs"). On the other hand, "signs along the way" (literally in your example of riding in the car), often manifest as spontaneous, wondrous gifts – surprises in the midst of life that encourage or provide needed direction. Then of course, there is the guidance that comes from within as we attune during prayer and meditation, which can at times function as a sign (especially when we are in that consciousness of Oneness (Thy will be done). Fascinating, isn't it! Blessings, Dave