I have had a very busy winter and spring. I’m happy to share that I’m on the verge of completing a Master’s degree in Spiritual Philosophy from SPICA - Way of Light University of Divinity. At the moment, I’m probably equally happy that I get a full summer break before continuing on to the doctoral portion of the program.
We all have goals and desires for our lives. It’s so vital that we feel our own creative expression, offering, and accomplishment. We are here on Earth to live! We want to learn, develop, and serve. All of this deserves encouragement and honoring. In fact, many people need much more of this— a sense of purpose in their lives and an alignment with the authentic expression of their soul.
However, in this moment, I’m also here to remind all of us of the importance of balancing being with doing. Even when that doing feels like it is making the world a better place or along the path of our personal and spiritual development.
The deepest truth of who you are is discovered in stillness. We need rest and silence to reconnect to the presence of our inherent Wholeness. One of my most important spiritual teachers, Gangaji, has committed her life to reminding others about the value of silence. In our flashy world of more, more, more, she has an impressive tenacity to the truth of such a simple, elegant, and timeless teaching.
As we emerge into summer across North America, our greatest teacher can be Mother Nature. Sitting amongst trees or next to a babbling brook has a physiological effect, calming our nervous system and quieting the mind.
I know I plan to take full advantage of the Colorado summer. Our dog, Kody, has become another great teacher of mine in the art of Being. If you’re wondering what we are up to in the coming weeks, it’s a good guess to say that we are out on the trails.
The important element to remember is to continue your inner value system about the importance of stillness. Modern society highlights and encourages activity much more than rest. The humorous part is that constant outward activity causes a person to miss the subtle yet unbelievable dynamism happening in our own consciousness. I remember, one time on a meditation retreat with Gangaji, I had a powerful awakening experience. I also found myself quite surprised! I went to the front to speak with her about it and offered, “Gangaji, I didn’t expect it to feel so alive. It’s not stagnant at all. I’m alive and dynamic in my own consciousness of presence.”
Ah yes. So very true.
Of course, I’m excited to share soon about all the doing that I’ve been up to with my Master’s degree. I have learned and developed so much. However, first, it is important to honor a time for rest. If you’d like to rest with us, join our meditation circle to enjoy stillness in the midst of supportive community. Learn more by visiting our Spiritually Human MeetUp Group.
Many blessings,
Kelley Neumann