"Our unique perspectives, principles, and practices can create a rich and colorful menagerie of devoted living.” At the center of our identity - as individuals, communities and even as a species - is our system of belief. Whatever we believe, we can allow our convictions vis-à-vis religion and spirituality to either divide us or unite us, as human history has continually proven. In the 1960s, the anti-establishment movements challenged our social norms, economics, and p

One of the most beloved Christian hymns is John Rutter’s, “For the Beauty of the Earth”. It is a lovely reminder of the divine magnificence available to us at all times if we are willing to step outside and lift our gaze beyond our mundane tasks. People of all faiths can appreciate the simple lyrics which give pause to the exquisite beauty found everywhere in nature: For the beauty of the earth For the beauty of the skies For the love which from our birth Over and around us

Most of us are taught to “look before you leap,” to assess all available facts and consider possible consequences before making decisions or taking action. The frenetic pace of our lives today, however, does not always afford us the time to carefully review every pertinent detail. In fact, the less time we have, the more vulnerable we are to a decision-making flaw that neuroscientist refer to as availability bias – a mental shortcut the brain takes based on our own limited an

The ancient Greek philosophers identified eight types of love, from the passion of Eros to the selflessness of Agape love. Nowhere in their work is there any mention of “tough love”. Tough love is a contemporary concept first introduced to us in 1968 when Bill Milliken, an at-risk youth advocate, published a book by that name. It has since evolved into two distinct and often radical strategies: the procedure of intervention used in psychotherapy, and the practice of self-resp

We share the planet with 8.7 million species of animals on land and in water Europe, Friends of the Earth, and this month we formally recognize, appreciate, and celebrate their magnificence and the ways they enrich our lives. “Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's soul remains unawakened.” - Anatole France Internationally, we recognize World Animal Day on October 4 which coincides with the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of birds and animals. Firs

Giving thanks is not a means to an end; it is an evolved way of being. To give of our time, talent and/or treasure with loving awareness means that we focus our intentions before, during and after the act of giving. To be conscious in all we think, do and have is the aspiration of most of us on an openly spiritual journey. But maintaining a state of high awareness isn't always as easy as it sounds. It takes commitment, discipline and devotion to being mindful and authentic, e

For those of us in the northern hemisphere, the earth turns to winter this month and we tend to turn away from our activities and perhaps even from each other as we nestle in our warm homes. As we near the shortest day of the year (which is not a true measure of time but an appearance of light or the lack thereof), life can feel harsh, cold and dark; the antithesis of what most of us strive to feel in our daily experience. Intellectually, we know there is no place that God

"Each day is a new creation, a new moment for a fuller awareness of spiritual reality and a time for designing the new life we want to live." - Ernest Holmes The dawning of the New Year often inspires a renewed sense of purpose, determination, and hope. It's a time when we cast the past and open ourselves to new possibilities. Yet so many of us get caught up in the demanding idea that we need to somehow radically improve or drastically reinvent ourselves at the start of ev

Love letters are the stuff of heart’s desire; the communiques of deepening connection between kindred spirits. Some are sentimental, some are sweet, and some confess a passion too bold to voice out loud. Though we typically think love letters are only for paramours, we can enjoy these special valentines between the many types of loves with whom we are blessed - from the loyal amity of philia love shared between friends to the selfless purity of agape love for all. And most

Defining moments typically involve a decision to change some aspect of our lives in order to gain a better experience. These pivot points in life can be a new beginning, the continued growth of our good, or the end of what no longer serves us well. Yet when these opportunities present themselves, we sometimes stall out with indecision, confusion, and uncertainty. Fear of the unknown is one of the biggest roadblocks to positive change. It may seem easier to sidestep the d

Hints of spring spark the desire for fresh air and sunshine. Yet as we open the windows of our homes, our minds, and our souls to increasing light and new possibility, we often realize how cluttered, dusty, and crusty our lives have become – inside and out. Spring cleaning is more than an annual ritual for the physical home; it is an on-going opportunity to revitalize our spiritual lives, encourage personal growth, and prepare for all of the bountiful blessings awaiting our