In our previous post, we discussed the difference between spirituality and religion. Measuring spiritual and religious beliefs will further that discussion. If you are religious and/or spiritual, how do you measure the effectiveness of those beliefs and practices in your life?
My Catholic Faith Experience
Ginny and Jean in Italy for Catholic World Youth Day, 2000
Measuring Spirituality: the Impact on Behavior
So in my opinion, if looking to measure the effectiveness of a spiritual or religious belief system, the important question is this: are those beliefs leading to loving behaviors that enrich life? I am wary of “spiritual experiences” that do not impact behavior. I have had many experiences that I would regard as “divine inspiration” or “revelation”… a moment of profound clarity, an experience of overwhelming joy, a deep sense of peace and wellbeing, being enveloped in gratitude, an overwhelming sense of oneness with others. For me, the value of such experiences is that they teach me and challenge me to expand my sight, my heart — to be “more” in my life.
Seeking Alternative Paths to Spiritual Growth
I know I need spiritual teachers, scripture, religious practice, times of quiet reflection and mindfulness to have spirituality impact how I live my life. These external resources are a guide to my inner growth. We all seek and find our “higher power” in many ways, using many philosophies and various paths. But we know that many people have found established religions or more conventional, time-tested approaches to be personally disappointing or even hurtful. In these cases, it is understandable for seekers to look to alternatives as a spiritual guide in their lives. When stepping beyond more traditional spiritual systems, use the SEEK Safely Empowerment Guide to help assess the safety of the new approach. When following a self-proclaimed spiritual teacher, ask that teacher to practice the values of the SEEK Safely Promise. And ask yourself: is this spiritual experience helping me to be a contributor in this world? Is this helping me to live more richly, with greater compassion, insight and satisfaction? We at SEEK desire everyone’s journey to be productive and safe.
