The way of the growing soul is not a linear path. We do not slay dragons one after the other, proceeding in a clear and chronological line towards wholeness or enlightenment. We do not tick off learning experiences as we go, ticking our way to virtue. We are not made like that; we are messier by far. It takes us time to process material, for damage to be noticed, understood, dissipated and dissolved. Damage lingers, in hidden places, appearing suddenly from the deeps. And what I thought I had sorted …