[whitecrow]

Originally Posted by JoMo

HI everyone,

I have been bothered for a long time about spirituality...I will appreciate any comment- I am hoping for advice, tips, or their personal opinions.

JoMo, the reason it's so hard to lead someone else on this path is that it is a different path for everyone. I could describe my path - or the Buddha could describe his - and although you would no doubt achieve deep insights, it would never be your path.

It never hurts to gain an overview of the world's great historic religions. This will give you an map of sorts, of how spiritual knowledge has crystalized in various places and eras. Mind you, religion and spirituality are not the same thing. All religions begin as radiant zones inspired by a human manifestation of the divine consciousness. But in time, they all degrade into dogma and mind control. Nevertheless, by reading some of the major scriptures of the world you will begin to understand that behind the social teachings aimed at a particular culture and era, religion always teaches the same things. And these things are the essence of true spirituality.

Surprise: you already know them. Love God. Love others. Be kind, patient and forgiving. Practice the Golden Rule, which is expressed in the scriptures of every religion.

There are many, many spiritual writings of a nonreligious nature as well. Eventually though you must leave the outer stimuli and move within. This is a process, not an event. It is a lifelong journey.

I often suggest to people that they write a Manifesto or Statement of Intentions. This will help you clarify what you believe and focus on what you truly wish to do with your life. And of course, you can change it as often as you like. I go back and look at mine once or twice a year. Every ten years or so, I re-write it completely.

Don't feel you have to "become spiritual." Jesus was telling the truth when he said, "Seek, and you will find." You're a seeker, or you wouldn't be here.