Spiritual Identification
By Meilena Hauslendale
There are so many differences in our world. Our cultures are
different. Our languages are different. And our beliefs are
different. We come in different shapes and sizes. We each have
personal differences and ideals that allow us to identify who we
are and what we contribute to our societal makeup. Each one of
us is an intricate part of the whole.
Our differences allow us to complete all the functions that are
required for our world to run smoothly. However these
differences are not always applauded for their greatness.
Instead they are used to continue our separation.
We use these differences as excuses to not pursue unification.
We use them to divide, not conquer. Even the realms of religions
have at some point divided us instead of uniting us. Perhaps
what is missing is the pursuit of spiritual tolerance, a belief
that allows us to tolerate others’ religions, race, or creed by
simply focusing on our own spiritual identity.
After all, our experiences of spirituality are personal. Even
though our environment and encounters influence our direction,
it is up to us to decipher what path we choose to take. We can
choose to recognize our path or we can choose to avoid it. Some
paths lead to spiritual groups and some lead to individual
practice. Some people may identify with particular religious
beliefs and some may choose to establish their own belief or
practice. As long as the goal is for a universal goodness, the
belief or practice is of worth.
Whatever road allows you to acquire your spiritual identity,
travel. Whatever practice allows you a tranquil mind, then by
all means succumb to your intuition. If we stop to listen and
address what we feel is right and proper, then we are addressing
our own spiritual identity. We need not cling to a practice or
belief simply because we were born into it.
We can create our own beliefs and therefore our own identities.
Our beliefs would naturally be different as all of our
experiences in life are different. No one individual has had the
exact same life as the other. Sure we have similarities, but our
journeys are really quite individually mapped. It would be only
natural for us to develop our own concepts and pursuits based on
our experiences.
Spirituality is not a matter of force or inheritance. It is a
matter of the seeker pursuing a higher understanding of
themselves and the world around them. Spirituality is what we
acquire when we stop and take a moment to realize a universal
greatness is at work here. This universal greatness does not
separate us, but unites us as whole. This universal energy
relies on all of us despite our religions, beliefs, culture, or
language. It is the core of our identity. It is the makeup of
our existence.
Some long for the camaraderie of group belief structures and
that is quite acceptable. However, do not allow the group
conscience to overcome your own. You still have the
responsibility to identify yourself and your own nature. A group
may assist you in self realization, but they do not govern your
own intuition unless you allow them to do so. Pay attention to
yourself. If something doesn’t feel right or comfortable then
chances are your intuition is right.
Don’t be afraid to develop your faith and practice it on your
own. If you feel comfortable with this concept then it is for
you. If you need guidance or others with similar lines of faith
then a group may be more suitable. Allow your spiritual practice
to go where it needs to. You will eventually settle into a
foundation that will continue to grow and develop throughout the
years.
The beauty of spirituality is it allows us to define and focus
on our roles in our society. We no longer need to focus on what
we feel is right for others as that is not our responsibility.
When we focus on our own spiritual goals and attainments, we are
doing a great service because we are essentially allowing others
to do the same.
About the Author: Inspirational Artist & Author Meilena
Hauslendale's work and articles are displayed internationally.
She is the founder of Silence Speaks International Artist
Association and the Editor of Intrigue Magazine. Published books
include, Making Your Purpose Your Business and Recognizing
Unhealthy Relationships. Website: http://www.meilena.com
Source: http://www.isnare.com
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