[Guest Blogger] Developing a Spiritual Life

Recovering from a serious illness or a profound life event can be a time of confusion and uncertainty when every suppressed emotion rises up to tear us down. Choosing to include a spiritual side to your life may feel overwhelming, but at the same time we know that a spiritual life is a worthwhile choice. We may wonder about the practicality of it. How can we live spiritually when everything around us is based on the material world?

Although personal and spiritual growth comes from within, most people appreciate the friendship, support and companionship of belonging to a religious affiliation or spiritual center. Through a spiritual relationship with a higher power, you will feel good about yourself and discover the peace and joy of abundant living. Spirituality can provide you with a foundation to go back to no matter what happens in your life. Furthermore, the power of prayer helps us experience a stronger connection with God every day.

Mindfulness

As you begin to create your new life, consider building a foundation for your spiritual self. Be mindful of what you are doing and of where you put your attention. Mindfulness helps us stay connected to our priorities. What brings us peace and joy is the foundation of our inner priorities: being spiritual lead, speaking our truth, and treating others with loving kindness. You will find that your inner priorities are more important than your outer priorities. Treat yourself with compassion when you fall down on your priorities.

Daily devotions

The Joy of Loving: A Guide to Daily Living consists of messages written by Mother Teresa and compiled by Jaya Chalika and Edward Le Joly. This guide for daily spiritual living includes messages for each calendar day and is useful to both the believer and the nonbeliever. The authors write…

“Mother Teresa speaks as the conscience of the world. She is a lighthouse for believers, sending rays of light that show the way in semi-darkness. And to nonbelievers in God, she is an anchor steadying their ship in rough waters.”

An easy way to get started is to begin each day, by opening this book and reading an inspirational message from Mother Teresa.

Ministry groups, retreats, broadcasts, podcasts and Apps

Consider meeting with the pastor or the spiritual leader of your local church if you have questions about how to proceed with your spiritual journey. There are many ministry groups, retreats and bible studies in your local community that can offer you the opportunity to make caring friendships with like-minded individuals.

You may also develop yourself spiritually through books, music, broadcasts, podcasts, blogs, Apps and tours of your favorite spiritual leader. Unique Daily Affirmations, a downloadable App for your cell phone, may keep you inspired to continue on your path to positive living. Let your curiosity lead you on your spiritual path. Reach out and connect with others as you explore your spiritual self.

About Gale

Gale O’Brien is a cancer survivor, motivational speaker and the award-winning author of Transformation: Creating an Exceptional Life in the Face of Cancer now available in both English and Spanish. Transform your life each month with timely tips on food, health, fitness, relationships, and work. Subscribe to the Transformation monthly newsletter or order her book by visiting: www.GaleOBrien.com.