SPIRITUAL CONNECTION: Getting in Touch with a Higher Power

What's the Scoop

Some people really don't like to discuss the subject of spirituality. If you are such a person, yet are still seeking knowledge, you've come to the right place. Here you can anonymously receive information without getting out of your spiritual comfort zone. You may find that some barriers to spiritual feelings end up coming down.

Spirituality means different things to different people. For some, things of the spirit are co-extensive with the teachings of their religion. For others, spirituality is the way they cultivate an inner sense of belonging in the universe; it is their way of being human. There are other examples as well, such as those recovering from addictions, for whom spirituality is a connection to a "higher power." For others still, it is the path they follow to healing or integration of body, mind and spirit. There are also people for whom spirituality has no meaning whatsoever.

  
What Do I Do

First of all, it is important to recognize that there is no instant spirituality. There is no quick fix for the human condition. Life and death are not problems to be solved; they are sacred mysteries before which we stand in awe and wonder. Spiritual practices help us to stand in the presence of great mysteries with a degree of confidence and peacefulness, rather than uncertainty and trepidation. For the purposes of this article, let us say that there are two types of spiritual practice: the practices of the world religions and the practices of "natural spirituality." For Jews, Christians and Muslims, prayer to and worship of the "one God" are central spiritual practices. For Buddhists, meditation and the chanting of sutras are central practices. For all, the study of scriptures and participating in the life of their local religious community are also central.

Alternatively, "natural spiritual" practices have no necessary connection to a particular tradition. They involve doing the ordinary things of life with intentionality. That is, with spiritual awareness. Preparing, eating and sharing meals with others can be a profound daily spiritual practice if done with spiritual awareness. Telling our stories to others, respectfully hearing theirs, taking leave of our home, making the journey to school and returning home at the end of the day, dancing, yoga, singing; even, perhaps especially, breathing-all the simple stuff of daily life in fact is spiritual when it is done with spiritual intent.

If you have received a spiritual or religious tradition from your family, you have received a great gift-a gift of ancient wisdom, of culture and of practices that have been passed down through many generations. If you feel called upon to embark on the spiritual journey and don't know where to begin, the Chaplains would advise you to investigate your family's tradition. If you wish to explore other faiths or spiritual traditions, remember that good teaching is important: be sure that you are respected. In either case, the Chaplains may be able to assist you. They do not represent all traditions, but can put you in touch with communities that represent most traditions.