Today, A Voice for Men's Spirituality, Lance Ekum
I've been wanting to launch a discussion on the spiritual lives of men for quite sometime now, but not quite sure how to approach it. Over the years, I've had hundreds of women express their concern to me that the men in their lives are not on any kind of a spiritual path—and they want them to be on one!
Now I know for a fact that men are on a spiritual journey (everyone is!), but their experience of it may not be the quite the same as women's. I've decided to invite a good blogging buddy to help me out on this one.
Welcome Lance!
Lance Ekum is the author at The Jungle of Life. Writing there has become much more than just words on paper for him. It's become a part of an understanding of the journey through life. And at an even deeper level, a journey itself into soul. In his free time, Lance likes to bike, run, and coach soccer (and snack on dark chocolate).
Please welcome my guest blogger and savor this soulful post he's written about his spiritual life.
~~~0~~~
And please don't fight
These hands that are holding you
My hands are holding you
~ Lyrics from Tenth Avenue North, "I'll Be By Your Side"
The answer was clear...
...and then...it changed.
We're all on a spiritual journey. This I believe. And where we're at, each one of us, is really that spot we're ready to accept on our journey.
Nature
Our natural world, is a world very much filled with life. Animals frolicking in the grass (this morning I watched a red squirrel try to get in the patio door), trees, a gently flowing stream, the sky. We're surrounded by these natural elements, even when it might not feel like we are. I'll get back to that.
Something More
As providence would have it, a couple of weeks ago I participated in a very intimate, very real, and very deeply moving healing service. Picture this with me. Fifteen people. Many small candles glowing. Dimmed lighting. Soothing piano. Everyone there either to help out, or very much wanting healing of some sort in their lives. Have you ever been there? Where there's a deep need for healing? I think, on some level, we're all there, always. Healing can encompass so much. I'm digressing, though.
I've done this same service once before, and it was deeply moving then, too. However, this time was different. This time, at the end, as we, as prayer healers, received our own healing connection, I felt moved to offer a healing prayer up for one of the prayer leaders in our group of three. At that moment, as time stood still, I felt completely engulfed in the Spirit of a Higher Being. It was almost as if I were observing myself as at the same time, I spoke words that came from within, and then, so much more than within - words that were spoken through a very Holy Spirit.
And please don't fight
These hands that are holding you
My hands are holding you
I believe very deeply that we are spiritual beings here on this earth, living out our life in very human ways. At our core, though, is that spiritual connection. Our connection to a Higher Source, whatever that happens to be for each of us.
Do I feel this deeply moved by the spirit daily? Definitely no. And I think part of that is that we lose some of that connection when we get wrapped up in the daily busy-ness of life. And to get that connection to our own deep spirit back, it's in taking time to step back. Step back in whatever way that is for you.
For me, that's a walk in the yard, a run through the neighborhood, or a bike ride in the woods. All very much, moments within our natural world where I can connect with that very personal spiritual side of me. And then...every once in a while, a magical moment takes place...a moment where that connection to spirit goes deeper than I can fully grasp. And in those moments, I surrender... I surrender to the God I faithfully have accepted into my life. And through Him, that spiritual connection goes far deeper than my limited human capacity can understand. At that moment, though, at that moment when this happens, my own spiritual capacity allows for that moment to just "be." And it is indeed a beautiful connection to something far greater than what this earth holds!
So, my spiritual journey is really just that - a journey. A journey into me, and who I am. And how I make that connection to Spirit is one in which there is no hard and fast answer. Some days it's an idyllic setting amongst a forest of trees, some days it's in the goodness of strangers, and at other very special moments it's a deeply profound connection to my soul at which I feel as though I've transcended to a Higher Place.
May your own journey be one that is filled with that deep connection to the living soul within you.
~~~~~
Lance, thank you for this open and honest sharing of a pivotal moment in your spiritual journey. And for helping us understand what Spirit means to you and how you experience it.
Friends, both Lance and I welcome your thoughts ...
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Visit Lance at www.jungleoflife.com and be inspired—daily!—for your life journey.
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43 comments:
Lance, I'm so happy to see you here. I am a huge fan of your blog and I've known for some time now that you are a very spiritual guy. I love that you are not afraid to admit this(some guys are). Your openness and honesty is what draws your readers to you.
When I feel disconnected from God I meditate/pray. I agree daily life can easily disconnect us, but so joyful that we can find our way back.
Welcome, again, Lance! I am thrilled you are here with us today talking about such an important topic.
And, Tabitha, thank you for these kind comments about Lance. Yes, I am so happy, too, that he is the REAL deal.
But you raise a very important question. So WHY is is that many guys do not want to admit that they are spiritual? I've got my own view on this but, Lance, any thoughts?
Hello Lance and Jan,
I got goose bumps (literally) while reading this post. I ,too, am a very spiritual person and recognize that we are all spiritual beings on a spiritual journey. Most times I feel "connected" to the "SOURCE" but sometimes I don't. When I don't, I really do not like it at all and am not at peace until I regain that connection.
Like you, Lance, I find that if I step back from things and allow myself to do something like a walk alone at night, some time in nature, and often times with music, I can quickly get back to that special place where I feel God, (Infinite Intelligence, or whichever term you like) in me and around me again. There is where I feel useful, at peace and experience real happiness.
I really appreciate you for sharing this today, and Jan also for having you on her super cool blog. :-)
Blessings to you both
What a wonderful idea to open the discussion on men's spirituality, Jan, and you picked the perfect person in Lance. Lance, everything your write on your blog always has such integrity to it, and has such a soulfulness and heart to it, regardless of the topic. I think this is true spirituality, this integrity and heart, not techniques or philosophy. And your post here covered this so well. I think my husband is in fact very like, in that his connection to spirit comes very much through time in nature and 'getting in the zone' during physical exercise. For a long time I wanted him to do something more explicitly 'spiritual' (and he does meditate a bit) but eventually I came to realize that he had his own way of connecting, of balancing himself, and it was the right thing for him.
Thanks so much for sharing!XOXO Lisa
Keith,
Thank you for sharing your story, too! I think most of us don't feel as connected to the "Source" as we'd like and that is certainly where spiritual practice comes in.
You mention one of the ways that men "typically" connect -- through nature. My husband would concur as would my brothers and son. This (in my view) is a vital sort of spiritual practice. Nature does ground and center us--not to mention deliver us into the arms of awe and gratitude!
I also like how you used the word "useful." That seems to be a very impt aspect of life to men. How wonderful that your spiritual connection brings you that feeling. Blessings on your journey.
Lisa,
I agree with you about Lance. He and his site exude integrity. :-) What you say about your husband is also true for mine. Connecting with the physical they can feel "plugged in" to something higher. I am glad to hear that you and your beloved have good and open communication about this.
Hi Lance and Jan,
Great post, Lance. As someone who knows Lance from his blog and through email discussions, he is a spiritual guy.
I think spirituality is one of those terms that conjures up all kinds of ideas. And I think most of the time, women are deemed to be more spiritual than men.
That said, there are men who are very spiritual and they handle their spirituality very differently. My husband is similar to Lance in that he experiences his spirituality via nature or interactions with people.
Women tend to be more emotional beings so we experience spirit via our feelings. I think men experience it more with their minds. At least that is what I have noticed in my journey.
Both methods are valid because each person has to do what feels right to them.
Apologies for babbling but I think this was a great topic.
Thank you! :)
Thank you Jan for having Lance here today. I love his blog!
Lance, this was such a moving post. Thank you for your insights and continuing to inspire me on my spiritual journey. You are an amazing human spirit!
I agree with others who have said that Lance is a great person to open up the topic of men's spirituality. I love his simple yet powerful spirituality, and how it shines through everything he does. This was a beautiful post, and I enjoyed it a lot.
One thing that is always fascinating to me is how many men connect with spirit through being out in nature. A leftover from our hunter/gatherer days when we used to pray most fervently while hunting? I dunno, but it really is interesting.
Hi Jan and thanks so much for having one of my fave bloggers - Lance :)
Lance, this was a gem, how beautiful, how authentic, how YOU!
You got it, we are all on a journey and we will all get to where we "need" to go - it is just that some of us have chosen to get there differently and that is perfectly okay. This is what drives the beautiful diversity in this world.
Anyway thank you for sharing your deeply moving experience with all of us - I can imagine that must have been something really special.
And we are definitely spiritual beings on a physical journey - I so feel that and second that with all my heart!
Interesting here that Lance resists the usual path in discussion of men's spirituality of trying to make spirituality "manly" in some way: in my book "Numen, Old Men: Contemporary Masculine Spiritualities and the Problem of Patriarchy" I highlight some of the dangers of this. Better, as Lance does, to talk about spiritual journeys of men, rather than trying to shape spirituality to unfortunate stereotypes of masculinity.
Lance,
All who come in contact with you are blessed by your presence and silliness. What a combo, eh?
I admire how you speak your truth and share with us your personal experiences on your journey home.
Rock on!
I think it's interesting that you had that thread of lyric though your article. I've noticed that music helps my beloved feel more open and connected!
Lance, your description illustrates the connection to Soul so well. Lovely. It's pure bliss, isn't it, and something we instinctively long to deepen and to feel regularly. How we each strive for this is as uniquely individual as we are, and we even find that we may need different methods on different days.
Jan, I'm glad Lance was here, because now I've a new site to enjoy. It's very nice to meet you!
Hi Lance and Jan,
A very interesting topic. Whenever spirituality is discussed, there seems to be so many different perspectives and beliefs. I actually like that about it.
For me, the magic moments happen in nature too. I found the Canadian Rockies to be incredibly spiritual. It was amongst these mountains I healed from a painful divorce. It's hard to describe the love and connection I have to those mountains. It was really hard to leave them and come back to Australia. I will say though, that the beaches here have taken over where they left off.
Great article Lovely Lance and thanks for having him here Jan!
Lance,
Absolutely perfect! One of the songs I listen to while running on the beach, and the one song I use to grow myself through my current lesson of trusting enough to hold a hand extended to me....reassures me that it's God extending a hand and I can trust enough to take it. Your spirit is radiant and full--thank you for sharing as you do:)
Thank you, Lance, for moving my spirit today.
From the first moment I interacted with you, I knew your soul was (is) deeply rooted in spiritual ground.
You live and breathe it. It comes through your writing. It comes through your blog. I'm so very thankful that you share your thoughts and feelings with us. Your peaceful journey emanates through my computer screen to my very soul.
~xo
Jan,
Thank you, very deeply, for opening this space up for me to share a part of my journey. It is an honor to be here, and feel the love you, your visitors, and your site exude. You posed the question as to why men sometimes don't want to express their spirituality. I'll try to tackle that one. I think, in a way, there's this feeling that when I share my spirituality, I'm giving up some control - that I'm admitting I can't do it all alone, or I don't have all the answers. And I don't, and none of us do. That can feel like surrender, though - surrender to our own weaknesses and frailties. And how does that make us look? (human is the real answer) we maybe think we'll be perceived as weak. In reality, I think it's quite the opposite. If we can get to that point of truly being open to our own spirituality, we form a stronger bond with our own soul. And that's a very good place to be, although the "world" may not see it that way. I wonder if we started to think more in terms of eternity instead of this life here on earth, if our focus would shift more toward that deep spiritual connection within us? Okay, that's my take on it, anyway, and just some thoughts that are bouncing around in my head. Great stuff to think about, Jan! And I would love to hear what anyone else thinks on this subject too.
Again, thank you for having me here today!
Namaste,
Lance
@Tabitha - Hi Tabitha. Thank you!! And what's interesting about this, is that this has very much been a journey getting to where I'm at today - including the level of openness I've shared. Disconnection...easy to let happen when we lose touch with our inner core. Meditation and prayer are great ways to get that back, and I think that's because it's a time to quiet ourselves, and really listen to that inner voice - our soul - speaking.
@Keith - Hi Keith. Ah, great point you bring up about the level of peacefulness that comes from that connection to Source. And I think that's because when we connect to Source, we're doing that very much through our connection to our own soul. And yes, having a way to get that back - whatever works for each of us individually - is so good to have. And music, I too find can be very spiritual, the right piece at the right time. Thanks much for sharing so openly of your own journey, Keith...
@Mommymystic - Hi Lisa. I too think it's a wonderful idea that Jan is exploring here - and I'm glad to be a part in all of that! And Lisa, really - thank you for what you're saying, that really means a lot to me. Right now, I'm really letting this thought you've shared sink in - that spirituality is much more that some technique or philosophy. And I like that. It's really, maybe, in how we live. Nature and exercise are both very connecting for me - and I think the beauty in that is that we can all have different "ways" of making that spiritual connection - and no one way is "the way". Some people may make that connection in the company of others, or in a planned spirit-filled event, while others it's much more individual. And I think both can be very personal and real, just different. Lisa, thanks so much for sharing here today.
@Nadia - Hi Nadia. Thank you, and know that I think the same of you (well...except for the "guy" part!). Your spirituality shines through and is a beacon of light! Nature can definitely be a connecting force to something Higher. And I think that for me, it has to do with nature being something not made of man, but made from something Greater. I find it amazing that we could throw some grass seed on the ground, and grass will grow, just from dirt and water. Or an oak tree can grow from a single acorn. Nature is so amazing! And I think you may be right about the whole mind connection being a stronger connection for men. And in the case of the healing service, what took this to an even greater level was that the connection between mind and heart was bridged, and the soul pass through there. And no worries, Nadia - babble on!! It's great having you and your insights here.
@Caroline - Hi Caroline, and thank you!! It's so good to be here today on Jan's site, and to share a bit of my own journey - and to know this has had some affect on your own spiritual journey - Caroline, I find that to be very moving. Thanks so much, always...
That was really very beautiful. Thank you, Lance, for sharing your male perspective, certainly, but more importantly, another human perspective.
I'm finding it interesting, that as I travel on my own journey, I'm receiving confirmation in a variety of different ways. Jan, your site is very much a source of that for me and I'm enjoying the connection, no matter how unintentional.
Blessings,
Carolynn
Lance,
What great responses we are having here! And I do appreciate how you so openly and honesty share. I do believe that the more all us can do this, the faster we will evolve as a species. And the closer we will be to living the love, the peace, the joy in which we are sourced.
I think you are right on target when you describe why men might be resistant to share in this way. But as you say so well, openness brings greater growth, clarity, and confidence. Truly, a win-win situation for everyone involved.
Nadia,
I think you've got it! I am inclined to believe that men's spiritual journeys are about getting in touch with feelings, softening, surrendering. Women's are about confidence, courage, finding our voice, using it, and independence. Together, we form a cohesive whole--the yin and yang of us! Then, on another level, each of us is BOTH and female and the better that is balanced within us (esp. in terms of spirituality), the more "whole" we are. Oh, I could go on about this forever, but I won't.
Caroline,
We all love ya, girl! So soulful you are. :-)
Jay,
In answer to your question, I understand that this nature connection for men may very much be sourced in our history. Men spent much more time alone in nature—for sustenance, defense, and sacred quests. Women were traditionally more bound to children & hearth, less mobile, in need of protection (children too) so the species would carry on. It's all so interesting. Can you tell I am an anthropologist at heart (and by training)??? Thanks for your great comments!
Evita,
Welcome and I do agree. May we continue to live out our spiritual origins and destinies with grace and ease. Diversity is marvelous—one river, many wells, as Matthew Fox would say.
Joseph,
Welcome and I, too, am glad that Lance focused on this. It unites us rather than divides us...
Tess,
Hi! Yep, Lance is a conscious guy for sure. Gotta love him...Can we clone you, Lance?
Hayden,
Welcome. Music is such a great connector, for many of us, I believe.
Julie,
Nice to meet ya! The way both you and Lance put this--about connecting with our soul in a way that we honor all paths is just my cup of tea! Hope you will return.
Sami,
It seems as if nature is a deep connector to the Sacred for most of us. I feel the same way. It is probably my greatest source of awareness, joy, and appreciation. Yours too, I bet! Nature transports and inspires.
Joy,
I am glad to hear that music is providing you with comfort and insight. I just love how a song gets stuck in my head that is trying to tell me something really important. :-) You too?
Lori,
Hello and thank you for your support of Lance. He is a great role model for all of who us who wish to live with integrity.
Carolynn,
I am very happy that you are finding confirmation on your journey these days. I do believe that is how Spirit works. When we risk and open ourselves up, many new voices and opportunities rush in in support of our new path. Glad this site helps. :-)
@Jay - Hi Jay. Thanks much, my friend! Maybe we are rooted in history, and nature connects us to something that is very natural. Hmmm...I don't know either, although I do know I certainly feel that tug toward the natural elements of our world.
@Evita - Evita, it's so good to see you here, and your words bring an instant smile to my face. Do you know, the word "journey" is a favorite of mine, and I think that's because it feels so connecting to something deeper within, for me. It just seems so limiting to me, to think that there is one "right" way. Diversity IS a beautiful thing! And yes, that moment during the healing ceremony was special, in ways that it's still hard to fully comprehend. Evita, it's so good to be on this journey, and know you're there too...
@Joseph - Hi Joseph. Stereotypes, something I hadn't thought a lot about, and what you're saying makes a lot of sense - it can be easy to stereotype - yet we're all individuals, all on our own very personal journey, whether we admit that or not...
@Tess - Hi Tess. Okay, you make me laugh! I AM all for a little silliness too! And what touches my heart here, really - are two words "journey home". Those two words together, as I read them here, are very grounding. And in such a good way, they remind me that our time here on earth is just a precursor to something greater, to that place we really can call "home"... and that is so moving for me...
@Hayden - Hi Hayden. And really, that whole song by Tenth Avenue North is one that adds very deeply to that connected feeling for me. As do many other songs, too. Music can really be such a beautiful connection to our deeper soul. So good to read what you've shared!
@Julie - Hi Julie. That feeling, that connection - when it's really there - it just feels so right. "Pure bliss"...that's a great way to describe that feeling, as hard as it can be to really describe. And yes! It's about the personal journey each of us is on...and that this is different for different people (or even at different moments in our life) is perfectly okay. Julie, thanks so much for being here. I find that the path that you're on is one which also provides much enlightenment for me. And do visit here often, Jan shares so much wonderful material.
@Sami - Hi Sami. And I think there are so many different perspectives precisely because we're all our own unique person, living our own unique life. And how we experience it all, and process everything is very much an individual thing. Even when we're part of something larger, there's still the part that connects this spiritual side with OUR soul...not a group of souls...OURS. And that is something to like about how spirituality can really cover so much. While never having experienced the Canadian Rockies, I do know that I find mountains to be very spiritual. Sami, we have enough history that I know you connect very much to nature. I think mountains, maybe part of it is their sheer size, and how they rise up, and the world just feels so magnificent. Maybe... For now, you have the beaches along the coast of Australia, and I have to think that's a pretty awe-inspiring place to connect too. Sami, it's always great to see you, thanks so much for being here today...
@Jchristin - Hi Joy. Isn't that a great song! And there is so much reassurance in those words, and in knowing that we're not on this journey alone, that there is someone beside us, helping us, being a light for us in dark times. So, so good....
@Lori - Hi Lori. Know that's very much a two-way street. You are such a shining light in our world, in my world. Thanks so much for being here, and the many gifts of love you share.
@Carolynn - Hi Carolynn. It was so good to share this here, and I'm grateful for the opportunity that Jan has given me to open myself up here. Keep on believing...your journey is the right one for you to be on.
This was an interesting post. Lance, your experience was beautiful. It is amazing the connection available to us when we humble ourselves and totally surrender to Jesus like you did. Prayer is so powerful. But that is because we worship a powerful God.
God Bless
Hi Jan and Lance - One thing I took away from this article is that spiritual life really has no boundaries. Lance, you described some very "everyday" type stuff that allows you to step back, and I think that's important. I think there's a spiritual lesson in everything that we do, if we can see it. As spiritual beings, everything that we do is spiritual, we are simply here in the physical world to practice. :)
Hi Lance and Jan,
What a lovely post!
I love to see you roaming Blogland like a spiritual minstrel, Lance, invited to loads of lovely bloghomes, spreading light and love and heartmusic wherever you go. Your family must be so proud.
My husband is one of the most spiritual folk I know, yet he'd laugh if he knew I'd said that. He's love on legs. He spreads light wherever he goes, is always engaged and present and fills every moment with something good, or kind and decent. He reads every spiritual or personal development book I recommend, and has a gift for distilling the messages in every one and applying them to our family interactions. He'd have made a better coach than I am. Thanks for giving me a place to share all of this spontaneously.
Thanks for sharing part of your personal journey Lance.
"a moment where that connection to spirit goes deeper than I can fully grasp" - I tend to get this in moments I refer to as Gratitude Attacks. When I'm overcome with a feeling of inner-peace, love, joy, gratitude, that my throat swells and tears fill my eyes. It can happy when I'm jogging, driving, or whenever, but most often when I'm surrounded by nature.
Or even little things, my paper clip moments (whenever I find a paper clip on the ground or anywhere, it's God saying hello)... honestly I can't remember how I began that... It's the moments of coincidence or signs that let me know I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be on my journey.
Laurie,
Welcome, glad to hear that Lance's thoughts touched your heart.
Amanda,
A woman after my own heart. Everything in this life is spiritual, everything! Even the challenges. Thanks for stopping by!
Janice,
What a delightful description of your husband, "Love on legs." Can I borrow that? (LOL) My husband is too. I am so blessed, sounds like you are too. Thanks for being here!
Jared,
Welcome! Love your way of thinking. Gratitude offers such a profound spiritual connection, doesn't it? And paper clip moments....I like that. A touchpoint back into the Divine when we least expect it. Thank you for being here!
LANCE, once again, thank you so much for being here with us. You have opened the doorways of our hearts even wider. Blessings!
Hello Jan and Lance!
Lance, it's nice to see you over here. The topic of spirituality for men is a good one.
Taking that moment to step back is so important. It is what centers us and brings us back to that spirit self that connects us back to everyone and everything. Yesterday I was sitting by a pool, reading an amazing book that I was nearly finished with. I was so wrapped up in finishing the story that I never took the time to just sit and appreciate the beauty all around me. I was aware I was doing this and I felt like I was cheating the trees and the birds and the waterfalls around me. But I couldn't stop reading the book and so only observed the beauty in a passive manner. Today is different. Today I'll be out there empty handed, just soaking it all in. I can't wait.
As for spirituality and men---I've been on my path for quite a stretch. I would read these great books on the subject and mention one or two things of interest to my husband. It wasn't until the Eckhart Tolle webcast with Oprah that we began talking about spirituality in depth and pretty much all the time. My husband has grown so much. I love it because now we're on the path together and can compare notes, so to speak. He loves it, too. It has changed how he views things in his life, like work and family, tremendously.
Great topic Lance! Thanks for hosting him Jan. I think men are afraid to share their spirituality because of us women. We want them to do it our way, have the same experiences. I too, hear all the time, women saying their men aren't on a spiritual path. The truth is, the guy isn't on HER spiritual path. I believe that a man's experience is deeply masculine and it really scares a lot of women. There is great power within a man and we women must trust that the power is good.
Jan, Lance reminds me that we all are basically, as my friend Kalyani wrote in her song, "beings of light with corporeal trends," spirit energy swirled into many molecules that present themselves in this form we call human.
I have not experienced such a service as Lance describes but singing or creating a new song can catapult me into that sacred sphere of awe for creation. Or just admiring the veins in a leaf or the every-changing clouds in the beautiful sky.
For my husband, becoming a father and discussing God with his child has really taken him to a new level of belief and faith that brings tears to my eyes when I think of how it's transformed him from someone who was not even sure he really believed in God, to someone who now talks to God daily. He and Lance are both fine spiritual examples of men. I hope all men (and women,) will embrace the loving light that is all around and in us. And rejoice in it.
Lance, it seems to me that pointing so squarely to the natural world is helpful. It's surely one of the broadest paths there is to spirituality – so many of us respond to nature as you do, as this comments thread shows. It’s remarkable to me that as nations and broader societies we're dangerously far along in a process of depriving future generations of similar opportunities to experience nature.
While there's been much talk about global warming, there's been nothing but added hot air to date, and we're presiding over the greatest mass extinction of species since the asteroid put an end to the dinosaurs.
In the long run, harmony will be restored – one way or another – because in fact we’re part of nature. We feel it, but as a species we've yet to act on it in the conscious way we need to now.
Keep up the consciousness-raising!
Jodi,
The point you make about your husband is so wise. We each come to new awarenesses in our own way. We cannot force our hand (our spiritual path) on another. My sense is that because you were so faithful to your path that this openheartedness enabled your husband to blossom and grow in his own timing. Wonderful!
Audra,
Welcome! Your comments are so perceptive. I agree with you. This has been my experience too, esp. with women whom I mentor. They definitely want their husbands on the SAME path. Even my husband and I (and he is a deeply spiritual man) do not share the exact same paths or perceptions. The point is can we grow together--even on different paths--and accept the fact that we are. Openheartedness, it seems to me, is key.
Jannie,
Your story is wonderful and I am so happy to hear all this openness. Isn't it amazing how parenting alone can shift and change our perceptions, our world? Yes, may we all embrace our love and light. Hugs!
Paul,
Very insightful thoughts, and, again, I do agree. It seems vital that we reconnect with the soul of our planet and restore harmony. But, as you know, this journey starts within. Harmony within (each of us) will result in harmony without. Thanks for being here in support of Lance.
I can see my partner's spirit connect when he paints...men are more active in their prayer - women need to be still?
My my daughter plays the piano I know she is at prayer
at my meeting with the church leaders, they want me to go back to church - that is work not a spiritual connection for me - ever
and I have to protect myself....
Lovely post Lance and Jan Thank you for sharing
I'll admit it... I'm not a very spiritual person. I believe one can find happiness, and achieve kindness (my #1 goal) without being very spiritual. I did find this to be an interesting, thought-provoking reading - thank you.
@Laurie - Hi Laurie. Getting to that point of surrender, if we can do that - and allow ourselves to be moved by a Higher Spirit, is so powerful. Our God is an amazing God, isn't He!
@Amanda - Hi Amanda. What a great thought, that spiritual life has now boundaries! While I described everyday stuff, I didn't really think about it this way. And that's really so true. At our soul level, that spirit lives! And there may be degrees to which we let that spirit shine, but it is always there with us...in every step of our days.
@Janice - Hi Janice. What a sweet thing to say, thank you! Like Jan said also, I love that you see your husband as "love on legs"! Great story, Janice - and really what a great connection you two have! so good to read all of this, thanks for sharing "spontaneously"!
@Jared - Hi Jared. And it's really Jan who should receive the thanks, for creating this place in which it's so easy to share openly and honestly. Thanks Jan!! And I like that! - "Gratitude Attacks"! Pretty sweet moments, for sure! What really jumps out at me here, though is your paper clip moments - what a great way to "see" God in the everyday-ness of life. Your journey is good, my friend...very good...
@Joydiscovered - Hi Jodi. And it's so nice to see you here too! The word "center" is a good word to read here today. When I think of that, I think of core - our spiritual core - which is a place we can slip from if we don't take moment to stop and just "be". And what you've shared - Jodi - it's all good. There's a time for everything. A time to read. And a time to "be". And a time to play with your kids. And a time to connect with yourself. Enjoy your day today, as you connect with the beauty around you. For me, it's been a journey to get to where I'm at today - and one that hasn't always been centered on my own spiritual core. It's a journey for all of us, I suppose -you, me, your husband. So good that you are both where you're at on this continuum today...
@Audra - Hi Audra. Great to see you here! Yes, spirituality is something very personal, and my path along that journey will be different than yours. And that's okay. We can still connect on our beliefs and what we hold true to our being - while traveling down different paths to get there. It's really a freeing thought to read this, and be reminded that different paths toward the same spiritual connection are perfectly okay.
@Jannie - Hi Jannie. Wow, those words by Kalyani light up a dreary day here! Music can be a real source of connection - especially for you Jannie, where you're creating it. Spoken from you, from the soul... And I think my path is similar to your husband's path - in that having children was a shift also in my spiritual focus. Not that this has to be the case, I think though, that having children we feel that connection to them - maybe much like God feels to us - and perhaps we, on some level, get "that"....perhaps... Jannie, thanks so much for sharing all of this.
@Paul - Hi Paul. So, we connect very deeply with nature, so many of us - and yet that's also one of the things we abuse in our world. Paul, what a deeply powerful thought. Or maybe powerless, as we may start to think - "what can I do, I'm only one person". I do think it's powerful, though, because it deeply touches upon how nature is at our core, or as you say - we are part of nature. Hmmm...so interesting to really think about - thanks much!
@Patricia - Hi Patricia. We're all different, and we have to respect that in others -that's the key, maybe. However our connection to spirit comes about - whether that's in something we're very active in, or very still in - or somewhere in between - it's really what works for us that's important. Thanks so much for sharing about the journey your family is on...
@Vered - Hi Vered. See, I wonder if it's in how we iterpret the word "spiritual". What you're saying here, very much reminds of a quote: "My religion is kindness." ~ Dalia Lama. Kindness is something that comes from a spot within our heart, perhaps. And connecting with that, I see that as connecting with our soul. Which I would call a spiritual connection. I don't think we're that far off on where we're each at on our journey. Vered, I really do appreciate your comments, and how it's making me think about what this means, what really defines "spirituality" for me. It's good to have you here, your voice is one which touches upon my core. And I'll stop here, just saying that you enlighten me by making me think deeper into who I am...
Hi Lance and Jan.
What I am getting is that I have to be careful not to judge someone's spirituality by a measure that I have decided is a measure.
Stereotyping spirituality is what religion has done and that does a lot of damage. I love that that is coming out in the post and comments.
I also love the fact that Lance also acknowledges that spirituality is part of daily life. Life is beautiful, everything around us that we touch is made up from particles coming from the creator.
Honor daily life and everything in it and you connect with God and men will do that when they do their thing in their temple, the garage.
We have lost a lot of practice to make daily living a spiritual event. Commuting in traffic has become a war, work has become a battle field and thus we have developed battle field habits.
However once we gain a spiritual perspective back in daily life, we will all return to our spiritual core, men and women alike.
Loved what this post unleashed, hugs to you both, Wilma
Lance, great to see you here on Jan's beautiful blog. We need to hear more of what men have to say about spirituality and their journeys...I think we are probably more similar than dis-similar! It is interesting to note that until recently, almost all of our religious leaders have been men. When I was growing up women could not be priests or ministers. Things have obviously changed but I find it interesting that women are considered to be "more spiritual" in some of our belief systems and yet men have traditionally been "in charge" of our collective cultural spirituality.
What is great is that now men are truly moving into the heart centered type of spirituality rather than the business type that controlled religion. My husband is SO spiritual, and yet he came out of a totally traditional background and was a businessman. He brought spirituality into those worlds and has changed lives because he took the risk, as Lance does, to live his spirituality.
You spiritual male pioneers are just wonderful, and so inspiring. Thank you for sharing so much of yourself on this blog, Lance, and your own wonderful blog!
Many blessings to Jan and Lance!
Patricia,
Welcome! How wonderful that you can sense and appreciate both your husband's and your daughter's spiritual connection. Many blessings as you continue to journey into your own.
Vered,
Welcome to you, too, and thank you for being open-minded to new possibilites. Be well!
Wilma,
I do concur that it is so important to move beyond stereotypes--even beyond male and female. There is a wholeness, that exists within each of us. May we journey with ease into that place of oneness. The call of spirituality today (in the broadest sense) seems to be uniting the head and the heart through wisdom...Thank you for your thoughtful comments!
Lance, appreciated all of your kind responses to everyone. May your spiritual life continue to unfold with joy. Blessings to you--and your blogging "ministry." :-) It was great to have you here!
Diantha,
Thanks for being here! I like your term of "spiritual pioneer." As more men begin to become comfortable, as Lance said, with being in touch with and expressing their feelings, our spiritual landscapes will continue to change in glorious ways. And as women emerge from the shadows of patriarchy, or being silenced, or feeling fearful for being strong, we will embrace our divine destiny. Holiness, wholeness, oure and simple. (my view anyway :-)xo
@Wilma - Hi Wilma. Stereotyping...that's a great word to describe what really seems to happen all too often. Just because we don't all "do" spirituality the same way, doesn't mean that one way is better or more "spiritual" than the other. And that's a good thing for me to remember, too - that there is no one "right" way. Connecting with God in daily life, it's there, because of the Spirit that resides within us...always. Getting in deeper touch with that spirituality - on a more regular basis - can bring a real sense of peace, I believe. Thank youk, Wilma, for being here...
@Life Potentials Network - Hi Diantha. Yes, we are similar, especially at that deeper spot within. It's just in how we get there, which may be different. And that is an interesting thought you bring up, about religious leaders being men (especially in the not too distant past). Possibly a good mix is just that - a mix of both men and women, giving a more rounded view - seeing that particular religion from all angles. And what a great place for your husband to be at on his own journey. Thank you for sharing here, so freely, and giving me so much to think further about...
Sat Nam, (reverent greetings)
I am a Kundalini Yoga and Meditation teacher.
A lot of my female students express that their husbands or boyfriends are not interested in spirituality and ask me what they should do.
The best thing that a woman can do is to keep moving ahead on her spiritual journey and not hold herself back. Your man is your mirror, when you shift in consciousness and so does he - even though you may not see it at first.
Sometimes a man needs a fire under his butt to get moving. When he sees you moving forward - he'll run to catch up - he's testing you to see that you are serious.
Every man wants a woman he can trust. When he sees you confident in your spiritual identity - he'll come around.
Bottom Line- Women need to focus on nurturing their own relationship with Divinity. Trust the Universe to do the rest.
Peace to ALL,
Catalyst Yogi
also
I also host a monthly Global Men's New Moon Meditation on youTube. Open to ALL Men of Spiritual Consciousness.
Send your men here:
www.youtube.com/user/mensnewmoon
Catalyst Yogi,
Thanks for visiting and sharing your thoughts! I agree, so important for each person to follow their path, do the "work of self," and grow themselves. It is true that when we do this we encourage others to do likewise. And, as a partner, we are much more attractive when we are empowered and self-assured, rather than needy and out of balance. Be well!
Nice blogging on spirituality the theosophy and the spirituality are the common things for self enlightment and to know the self.
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