Did anyone see the sci-fi short series called OA? Besides imagination, the series was comprised of research into NDE’s, and interviews with young people who were struggling to make meaning of their lives. What does the series have to do with healing/recovery? I could write about the many ways it applies, yet it all depends on what happens INSIDE a person as they absorb the series. I saw how all five of RI’s Recovery Pathways were touched on in the series. Today, let us look “spoiler free” at the “movements” the main character (OA) did, and the Spiritual Recovery Pathway.

OA and others were seemingly abducted by an NDE researcher. The abductees could see each other through the glass walls where they were captives. At one point, OA began some movements and other abductees started doing them as well. After returning from her disappearance, she bonded with a few people she felt safe to recount her story to (which included her own NDE’s and dimensional travel). She also taught these movements to them. No one really knew how or when they would come into play or what outcome would be produced. When it reached the point in the series where the movements were used, it was in a way I never would have guessed-and it really touched a deep spiritual cord within me. They used them unexpectedly in a very altruistic way that had nothing to do with the reason they began the movements in the first place. And-that was not the end of the story.

This really made me consider the “Web of Life” (individual Spirituality) and movements (towards meaning and purpose) we each make in body, mind, and spirit. We are constantly making shifts and changes in our inner and outer lives. Just like the movements OA and others did, we also have no idea what the outcome of these movements  (actions/healing/growth) will produce. Only later can we look back and see how much web was woven-how many movements it took to bring us to this point in our lives. So many people, places, and things had to converge in this Web of Life to create where we all are in this present moment. And it is more than any one of us could do on our own. For me, it creates a sense of true spiritual reverence and wonder-awe. I hope you will take a moment and reflect on the AWE in your uniquely individual Spiritual Recovery Pathway-and never stop your movements!

Cheri Thomas

Cheri works as a Peer Support Specialist for RI in Arizona. She has experienced loss and grief which has led her to write for the masses to bring voice to those in similar situations. Cheri possesses a deep passion to share with, encourage, and inspire others on what she calls the Journey of the Heart.