Where to Now?

Spirituality. What does that word mean? For some, it is synonymous with religion. For some, it is synonymous with or identified with God. And for some, it is simply an infinite source beyond themselves. I would suggest that spirituality is that which comes from within--beyond what we've been taught to believe or value. When what we've been taught to believe or value becomes an internalized experience that results in wisdom, then it becomes a "spiritual expression."

So spirituality is a natural way of being that is reflected in the way we live our lives. For example, unconditional love for another person is sourced from one's inner spiritual self and is reflected in caring, supporting, and ensuring the well-being of that person. Unconditional love is accepting their actions without judgement. Being patient with their irritating behaviors. Seeing humor in their shortcomings. But most of all, recognizing and acknowleding the commitment and dedication he or she brings to you.

When we tap into our inner spiritual source, we are unwilling to compromise our ethics and values that respects the dignity of a human being. These are not the ethics and values of a nation, culture, religion, or political association. They are the inherent ethics and values common to all humankind. If an ethic or value does not fit this criterion, then it is probably not spiritual in origin.

What's vital here is to make a distinction between spirituality and belief concepts as well as belief systems. This statement does not pass judgement on these, it simply acknowledges that belief concepts and systems are created by human beings. That which is spiritual directly drives human behavior without the necessity of a statement; no matter how esoteric it may be. Remember: "The word is not the thing."

This is the first installment in this series. For my podcast on the subject of spirituality, you might visit the website, www.longtalebooks.com