One of the hardest things about our busy lifestyles is being present to those around us. One reason I’ve taken the pilgrimage to Guatemala the last two years is because as a pilgrim I am able to be present to where I am and I am open to being transformed. In this way being a pilgrim feels like meditation to me. It helps me see God in other people and it helps me see the barriers in my own heart. This leads to compassion and concern for the people of Guatemala rather than complete despair. And it is easy for me to despair.