I always chuckle when I hear someone on pilgrimage use the phrase “spiritual shopping”. It sounds like an oxymoron right? This has actually been a topic of some lengthy discussion. It is not a trivial matter. Let me tell you what I have learned.

When I am on a trip like this, there isn’t a lot of time for shopping (unlike other “vacations” which can center around buying “stuff”). I can easily get into an anxious mood and want to buy something—anything. I’m not with myself and my feelings and I am missing the real purpose of shopping on pilgrimage. So, we have had good coaching and have learned to listen to the internal voice that knows the perfect item to purchase.

Items that evoke feelings I had while visiting a spiritual site contribute to deepening my lessons when I get home. A statue of Krishna that I bought makes my heart sing because it is so beautiful. And it will be a lasting reminder that I want to take on the traits of Krishna that will help me live a life of greater lover and passion and remind me to be a fierce warrior when that is needed. I have been on many pilgrimages and my home and office are punctuated with gifts brought back for myself. My home is spiritually uplifting. It is a statement that Spirit resides within the walls of our home. There are continued reminders that I want to love God more fully and be in service to the Divine just by looking at or running my fingers along these traumas. The act of spiritual shopping is a great way to keep pilgrimage alive in my heart.