First, there was learning.

The basics of language, numeracy
and the wonders of nature.

Then,
kindled, perhaps,
by a passionate teacher,
the birth of special interests,
Art, Science, Astronomy, Medicine …
the personal development
of self-expression and awareness.

A privilege:
not to be taken for granted
or abused.

The years flowed
and the depth of reason
and understanding
increased beyond the limits
of a single human mind.

Hypothesis submitted,
peer reviewed,
heated argument followed by
cold rejection
or warm acceptance.

An objective consensus
on a definition of truth observed
and an antidote to arrogance.

But this was a different kind of journey.

Travelling beyond their comfort zone
into the unfamiliar and unknown
they were fully determined
to follow the signs,
to discover the answer
for everything.

Ancient texts coupled with
their own careful observations
and the compelling need
to understand completely
drove their decision
to explore.

To acquire for themselves
the core of meaning
which would satisfy
their restless minds and bodies
and even, perhaps,
their hungry souls.

Not all would share their pure intent.

Distraction and danger
accompanied their quest
which was put at risk
by frightened and ignorant powers.

But a deeper wisdom was guiding them.

Beyond their comprehension,
existing between
the lines of their histories,
hidden to occasional readers
the Truth, once revealed,
became as obvious
as a radiant star –
it was always there.

They thought they were prepared
and had brought appropriate gifts
to acknowledge the king they sought.

Yet,
with an unprecedented wonder,
the conclusion surpassed
all expectation as they find,
not what they were looking for,
but who was waiting
for them!