We assume that we are independent beings, self governing (except for all the aspects of life we don’t know how to control), and we jealously guard ourselves against any perceived imposition from outside of our ‘kingdom.’ At the same time, we are often perplexed as to what to do with our independence, both in the big things and in the small things in life. We may have free will, but do we know which course to follow?

The teachings of Sufism tell us that Divine guidance is always present – in all forms, in all beings, in mothers, in fathers, in children, in friends and teachers. Presumably that same guidance should also be somewhere within us, as well – and yet we frequently find ourselves far out at sea with no land in sight and neither chart nor compass on board. Where to turn, then? With storm clouds on the horizon, where can we find shelter for our fragile craft?

In one of his Aphorisms, Hazrat Inayat Khan says, “Such souls as are conscious of their relation to God as being that of a child and his parents are especially cared for. They are always guided, because they ask for guidance.” Before we dismiss this insight with a shrug and a thought that, ‘Some people are blessed, but not me,’ we should look again. This aphorism carries the lesson that we are dealt with according to our attitude.

Although many repeat the words of the Sufi prayer, ‘Take us in Thy parental arms,’ not all feel that the Divine is indeed their loving parent. Some, burdened by guilt and self criticism, expect to feel judged and condemned, if they think of God at all. Others doubt that God ever thinks of them, perhaps because they never think of God. Still others, fighting the battles of life in this world – which confront all people, the sinners and the saints alike – think that God must be displeased with them, as they are displeased with their lot in life.

God is all, and we can find in the Divine presence whatever we seek – a Comforter, a Friend, a Sustainer, a Healer of our sorrows – but we must overcome our doubts in order to make a reality of our ideal, for doubt is the drop that rusts the bright mirror of Consciousness. And if we wish to choose an ideal upon which to focus, there can be nothing better than to think of the Divine as our Parent, for that will help awaken us to the loving care of the Divine, and will someday allow us to find the Spirit of Guidance speaking to us from within.