Invitation to Reflection and Action
Searching for Authentic Spirituality
'One of the striking aspects of contemporary Irish culture is the search for authentic spirituality. It is associated with a deep yearning for meaning and purpose in a society that is characterized by materialistic consumerism, exploitation of the Earth, alienation from nature, loss of any real sense of community and increasing violence. There is widespread agreement that the mainline religions do not address this deeply felt need of modern people and are at a loss to know how to respond to it. They seem unable to offer a vision of the way forward that would touch the hearts and minds of modern people. This is evident in many parts of the world. Ireland is no exception.'
Reflection Points:
For the author (Deirdre Brady, M.A. Thesis 2001) there seems to be a deep separation between what religion traditionally offers and the yearning of contemporary people for deep meaning and purpose. Religion seems a bit lost in knowing how to reach out and touch both hearts and minds.
- Does this resonate with your experience of the people you know in the place where you live?
- Do you identify with it yourself?
- Do you know someone else?
If you believe that dialogue may help... continue
Action suggestion:
People on both sides of the divide, work in the same place, visit the same entertainment centres and shop in the same shopping centres. From whichever side you stand - is there some small step you could take to include someone from the 'other' side? Could you make some very small start that would include someone else so that you could together explore what creates meaning and purpose in your lives?
- Write down quickly a list of things you might do.
- Choose the one you would most like to do.
Action Suggestions:
Invite someone you know who has different opinions to share coffee and a conversation. Listen so well that you could share her opinions with someone else if you were asked to. Be open about your own opinions and beliefs.
Offer to lend someone a book (or borrow one) on a thought provoking subject e.g. The Earth Is A Green Dragon by Brian Swimme. Across the Great Divide by David Ranson. The Spirituality Revolution by David Tacey. Invite your borrower to talk about how the book affected her sense of purpose or meaning.
Go to a public talk on a subject you would not normally put your self out for. Ask a friend to go with you and talk together about the subject you have heard. Notice any differences to your own understanding and tolerance of difference.
Check how you are feeling now. Your emotions give you energy for the task ahead even if it's a feeling you don't like. You may like to make up an affirmation that will respect your emotions, thoughts and possible actions.
Affirmations:
I let go anything that will hold me back from my highest good.
I allow others to be who they are.
I am at ease with doing what I need to do.
If you have a belief system that includes a loving God here is another one:
I place this in your hands my God and accept whatever happens.
That might be a good place to stop for now
