A New Year’s wish came to me in meditation – to make life in 2024 more spiritual. It’s not just for me, it’s a wish for everyone. As we shakily face the wars in the Middle East and Ukraine, tense politics in the US, global climate crisis and our own need to keep an even keel and focus on finding joy and meaning, we need more of the spiritual.
We have all faced times in our life when we needed to turn to something spiritual for support and deeper meaning, in whatever way that has significance for you. It becomes a source of strength and re-direction, like finding true north. I think we are there now. When we focus on the spiritual, we experience more hope, joy and meaning and have more to give. It’s the antidote we need.
The spiritual aspects of life have different meanings for everyone, so here are some thoughts on various ways this can be universally done. See if you can find something that you might want to embrace in 2024.
CULTIVATE A PEACEFUL LOVING HEART
All spiritual beliefs give instruction and meaning to being loving, peaceful and kind. It’s a foundational concept that keeps us anchored in our humanness to offer the generosity of the spirit of love to one another. To do so requires finding your own peaceful loving heart. It requires some kind of practice that brings you peace and calm – be that meditation, walks in nature, playing music, yoga, writing, reading, creating art or something meaningful. The more consistently you do this, the more it becomes second nature to respond to everything around you with calm, peaceful love. It has certainly changed my life.
CONNECT MEANINGFULLY WITH OTHERS
You are a spiritual being, no matter your beliefs, blessed with unique qualities that make you special and important to those around you. In these unusual times, being more spiritual also means being more real and open with one another so our bond with one another takes on special meaning. Deepen your conversations, say what’s in your heart. Recognize the importance of those around you and give voice to those sentiments.
SEEK JOY – GIVE IT TO OTHERS
Joy is one of the greatest gifts we can give to ourselves and others. It’s impossible to stay cynical or down when you are in a state of joy. Finding the little ways to cultivate it goes a long way to keep yourself and others buoyed. Look for what lifts you up. I played a chime in my meditation room and then heard the deeper ones outside as well – what a simple reminder. The little notes of loveliness, hearing the birds all atwitter outside, squirrels chasing each other, my dog’s delight at seeing a friend, listening to Lee on the piano. There are endless examples all around – look for them and share your discoveries.
RECOGNIZE YOUR SPIRITUAL PURPOSE
Finally, know that whatever you do, most likely serves an important spiritual purpose. Notice it, honor it, do it with your full heart and with love and joy. You help make the world a better place in small and large ways. Take yourself and your purpose seriously.
How does this speak to you? If you’d like to explore it, reach out.
