What do you say when someone asks you about your main interests? Have you ever been cautious about saying that you are interested in spirituality? I have. In general, I think this is because we are concerned about being pigeonholed or triggering an argument. It would help, too, if we were confident about what we could say.
So with some friends I have been working on a short list of what is good and useful about contemporary, holistic spirituality. “The spirituality in which I’m interested is good and useful because…”
GLOBAL CONSCIOUSNESS, NATURE AND EARTH
It recognizes the connections between all life and the need to respect, sustain and care for nature, earth and ourselves.
OPEN HEARTS AND MINDS
It embraces spiritual diversity – appreciating all the world’s beliefs and religions – and resolves conflict.
INDIVIDUAL EXPLORATION
It encourages the exploration of many paths so that everyone without exception can deepen their connection with the wonder and energy of life.
HEALTH, WELL-BEING AND FULFILLMENT
It delivers practical strategies which are crucial elements in good health and fulfilling our potential.
COMPASSION AND INSPIRING VALUES
It unites the core ethics of the world’s great philosophical, religious, ecological and psychological traditions to create powerful and inspiring values for justice, peace and sustainability.
PERFECT TIMING
It gives hope and guidance to solve our global challenges, prioritizing spiritual values and service over a purely materialist worldview.
UNDERSTANDABLE, PRACTICAL AND HOLISTIC
It provides a simple and clear definition of spirituality – everyone’s natural connection with the wonder and energy of nature and cosmos; and the instinct to explore and deepen this connection.
William Bloom would love to receive your feedback. Does this work for you? What is missing or needs deleting or rewriting? Please send him your comments either by writing to: P.O. Box 2809, Glastonbury, England BA6 8XQ, or join in an online discussion group that has been set up at www.holistichome.org.
READ: “Talking Our Walk” by William Bloom
