Gratefulness: A Perennial Gift

How Healthy is Your Spirituality?
by Jackie Kosednar

 

…separation from God, happens when we shut down our spirituality…

We know a lot about mental health and physical health, but most of us are very confused by what spiritual health looks like. Many clients have asked me, "What does it mean to be spiritual?"

To be healthy, we must have a balance between the mental, physical and spiritual parts of our lives. We know that when we don't have our physical health, our mental health suffers. Almost every person who is diagnosed with a disease will experience depression. The ramifications of some diagnoses can be devastating on our personal freedom.

With a high degree of spiritual health, or faith, it is easier to overcome any challenge. While we are physically limited in what we can do about things, Spirit is not. There is always the miraculous.

The purpose of religion is to give us practices that help keep our spirituality alive and growing. Most spiritual organizations have rituals, a community of like-minded individuals, and teachings with a moral code. Daily prayer, meditation and scripture reading are encouraged and help to increase our mental and physical health.

Our spirituality gives us reasons for living, for we find our purpose in service to God and others. In another sense, our spirituality gives us the ability to look behind the scenes of life, giving us a larger perspective from which to act.

When we feel that our presence on this planet is an asset, that we have value and a necessary contribution to give, we experience a continuing sense of self-esteem that facilitates mental health. We all have spiritual drives, including a desire to better ourselves, to make something good with our lives, to join and connect with others and to evolve as a person and gain wisdom. Understanding our spiritual drives helps us understand ourselves.

Connection to God or a Higher Power gives us an energy feed that is very beneficial to the body. In my energy work with people, I find that when this connection is deficient, there is almost always an experience of depression. Open up these connections and people begin to get happy and interested in life. Just attending church or praying can energetically strengthen us to the point where disease can't get a hold on the body in spite of horrific stress on the body. The spiritually numb succumb faster to disease on every level.

Spiritual death, or complete separation from God, happens when we shut down our spirituality and fail to remember our energetic connection to God. We do this by making a person or substance into God, using our religious beliefs to gain power over others, or by not living up to our moral codes. Shame is the biggest cause of spiritual death; it is the enemy of our mental health and the worst pain a person can experience in life. In the case of drug addiction and criminal behavior, the conscious is blocked altogether to shut down the shattering feeling of shame. To the degree we can't discern right from wrong, we are spiritually dead.

Our spirituality revolves around our personal ethics, morals and values -- our own definitions of right and wrong, or what is valuable and what is not. This is as unique and individual as we are. This system is built into the fabric of our being and determines the lessons we are here to learn.

Spirituality is the realm of non-ordinary states of awareness that our five senses can't always define. We have all heard about our "sixth sense." It has one foot in physical reality and one foot in spiritual reality. Mental health professionals have put together a hierarchy of human needs. One of those needs is to "alter our consciousness and transcend the ordinary." When we can't get this need met through our imagination and daily routines (for example, prayer, exercise, reading, etc.), we will do it with alcohol, food or drugs. Humans basically need to be able alter their moods and change their mental states at will. This need drives us to keep seeking more of the spiritual side of life.

We can numb our consciousness with food and create a false sense of well-being. This is the biggest factor in obesity. To help a person lose weight who is doing emotional eating or eating from boredom, it is very important that they find a new way to deal with stress and alter their consciousness. When we learn to do this spiritually through prayer, meditation, communion and positive thinking, we are less likely to abuse substances.

So, what does it look like to be a spiritually healthy person? To me, it means always trying to do the best for everyone and hurting no one – including the earth, others, as well as our self. I say “trying” because everyone makes mistakes; that is a given. Cheating, stealing, abuse, betrayal, gossip -- all these things may make us feel bad about ourselves and cause our lives not to work. When Jesus told us to repent, it was good advice. To repent is to admit we made a mistake. Then, we try to make amends as best we can. When we don't admit we made a mistake, we will often repeat the mistake over and over again.

Spiritual health is about trusting your conscience to guide your life. It means forgiving so that you don't hold negative energy in the body that can make you sick and block your connection to God. It means pursuing your higher power and altering your consciousness in healthy ways. It means taking time to pray, study and commune. It means being grateful for and loving your life.

Jackie Kosednar is a psycho-spiritual therapist, personal growth trainer, and the publisher of Alaska Wellness Magazine. She is also the author of the book "One Miracle After Another." www.healingtoby.com.

Independent Spirituality
by Kimberly Chancey

 

…so many new organizations add more primary leaders to the spiritual community.

In seeking freedom from imposed guidelines and principles of organized church affiliations, many groups of individuals worldwide have established independent churches and spiritual organizations. These new organizations are not connected or formally recognized by larger, established churches.

Father Tony Begonja describes this independent movement as “born of pain and ashes.” It is “a healing place… created by wounded healers in the power of the Holy Spirit.” Utilizing an “amazing variety of theological learning, forms of church structure, rules of internal discipline, and patterns of liturgical worship” the movements brings about “intimately small faith communities and house churches.”

Some of these organizations have been self starting, or spiritually entrepreneurial. Some were created by splits from other denominations, while others sprang from abandoned members stranded by political maneuverings of parent churches. Some groups started when people were dissatisfied with other locally available options, or those who never found a comfortable, traditional church home. Some groups have grown from powerful workshops or study groups whose members found such valuable support from each other that they expanded the traditional study format. There are even Internet-based, distance-worshipping opportunities.

Many people attracted to these new groups love the intimacy of smaller churches. A satisfying depth of community starts to emerge from within each group. People also love the fluidity of the less restricted organization, freed from dogma that can dominate more structured groups. The new organizational structures allow the groups to make decisions, change direction and adapt quickly. They may also immediately focus available energies upon a given task without starting a major strategy...or worse, establish a committee. While freed from complex leadership structures and committees, everyone who comprises the group is actually central in leadership. Everyone becomes an elder – and the worship team – and the prayer committee – and management. Such inclusion is a powerful dynamic for any group of people, particularly one with spiritual focus. As author Ralph Moore states, “start-up churches can reach more groups in need than regular churches. They're more flexible and can be more targeted.” One factor contributing to the growth of the independent movement is that so many new organizations add more primary leaders to the spiritual community. With the trend in spirituality, focusing on personal and independent relationships with Spirit, the movement allows more individuals to experience these roles and responsibilities. It also allows for more freedom of expression.

However, most leaders of these organizations recognize the fragility of the organization. Even small fluctuations in attendance or participation by even one member can alter the dynamics of the group.

One consequence of the independent movement is the manifestation of “Ordination Ministries.” These groups’ only declared purpose is to provide “legal” certification to ministers. One of the most well known is the Universal Life Church.

In 1974, the Universal Life Church sued the United States government regarding their right to have a tax-exempt status. When the judge ruled on this case, he also addressed the question of mail-order ordination, independent church charters, etc. The Universal Life Church performed a great service to all non-traditional ministries by fighting this case in court and eventually winning.

The following is excerpted from the court's decision in this case (the Universal Life Church is referred to as Plaintiff):

"...an Honorary Doctor of Divinity is a strictly religious title with no academic standing. Such titles may be issued by bona fide churches and religious denominations, such as plaintiff, as long as their issuance is limited to a course of instruction in the principles of the church or religious denomination... The statute is silent as to recognized honorary titles conferred for some meritorious recognition."

The court then addressed the issue of whether the ordination of ministers, granting of church charters, and the issuance of Honorary Doctor of Divinity certificates are substantial activities which do not further any religious purpose. The following is excerpted from the court's decision:

"Certainly the ordination of ministers and the chartering of churches are accepted activities of religious organizations... The fact that the plaintiff distributed ministers' credentials and Honorary Doctor of Divinity certificates is of no moment. Such activity may be analogized to mass conversions at a typical revival or religious crusade."

The part of the court's decision that guarantees the legality of various, non-religious ordinations states:

"Neither this Court, nor any branch of this Government, will consider the merits or fallacies of a religion. Nor will the Court compare the beliefs, dogmas, and practices of a newly organized religion with those of an older, more established religion. Nor will the Court praise or condemn a religion, however excellent or fanatical or preposterous it may seem. Were the Court to do so, it would impinge upon the guarantees of the First Amendment."

Ordination Ministries are sometimes referred to as "mail-order ordination services." As such, they provide a service and fill a need. However, they are not churches. They don't have a church membership beyond their own records of ordination, or certain "associations" of clergy, membership to which they charge a fee. In all fairness, they don't claim to be churches. They are, in fact, exactly what they claim to be: "Ordination Ministries.”

Congregations should be aware of the motivations, credentials, and qualifications of individuals intending to become leaders. To be successful, individuals interested in starting an independent organization may benefit from the following guidelines.

	Protect your personal time and family. Don’t over commit.
	Leaders must be flexible and original thinkers. If the group’s community is to survive over a period of time, a strong support group must develop.
	In addition to a strong mission, the group must hold a strong vision of Spirit.
	Financial Responsibilities: Prepare both an operational and opportunities budget. Wise spending habits with emphasis on opportunities and light on operational commitments will allow the organization to grow. In the beginning, there should be no big capital outlays. Think temporarily until the organization has the foundation to support the material possessions. Ministry is more important than buildings.
	The most critical element to success is meaningful services that spark faith and hope in the member’s experience. Services should teach by example the goals of the church. For a congregation to grow, the organization must be responsive to individual needs.

Reverend Kimberly Chancey is an Anchorage area scientist, researcher and teacher. She conducts the Anchorage Community Spiritual Gathering, based on the belief that Universal Truth lies in the unification of Human Understanding.

Encouragement Through Evolutional Growth
by Kimberly Chancey

 

We are all accelerating our personal vibration.

People in our society often surrender to various traps: alcoholism, drug addiction, overeating, overworking, overexercising – the list is exhausting. Many counseling methods treat this condition as a life-long ailment, to be continually battled. While treatment is often successful with conscientious effort, there is another possible cause –and a wonderfully miraculous solution.

Consider life as a school with lessons. As we master each lesson, we advance, much like advancing through grades in school. When we become fluent with certain skills, Spirit asks us to take a step forward. While we may feel our success is exciting, the transition experience can be quite different than anticipated. Essentially, we are being asked to leave a place we have mastered and cross the threshold to a new place with new concepts, many of which will be foreign to us. Spirit has expressed confidence in our abilities, but perhaps we are not so sure of ourselves.

In terms of energetic vibration, we are accelerating our personal vibration. Sometimes, this feels like an uncomfortable transition. Some people become so distressed that they decide not to change. We can deny that step forward, back away from the threshold, and elect to remain where we have been. This effectively slows down our vibration. Artificially depressing our energy level is often accomplished by plunging into an obsessive practice, such as using drugs, food or alcohol to reduce our energy. An effective solution to eliminate this mode, however, is by choosing to take a step and cross the threshold.

As we compound our experiences with others who are going through similar processes, we witness both symptoms and results growing exponentially. Our group evolutionary process is rapidly accelerating, for we are all experiencing many changes in our own way, in our own time, according to who we are.

Many times, our individual experiences of change can produce unanticipated symptoms. We may not know why these things are happening. Some typical signs of transition, along with some ideas of why these symptoms occur, include the following:•

Symptoms of Transition

	Feeling stress and intense energy, as though you are in a pressure cooker. Adjusting to a higher vibration can push former patterns, behaviors and beliefs to the surface.
	Feeling disoriented; not knowing where you are; a loss of a sense of place. Your consciousness is incorporating more spiritual information into your physical life.
	Unusual aches and pains throughout the body. You are purifying and releasing blocked energy. Often, the body acts as a storehouse for trauma. As trauma is released, there can be physical sensations, which we may interpret as pain.
	Waking between 2 and 4 a.m. Much is happening in your dream state. Sometimes you may need a break from the work you are doing during sleep. You may also experience vivid dreams.
	Periods of deep sleep and extreme fatigue. You are resting from all the acclimating you are doing and are integrating new experiences and information. You are preparing for your next phase.
	Heightened sensitivities and less tolerance for certain vibrations. You may feel overwhelmed by crowds, noise, foods, television, and other sensory stimulation. Healing practices that worked for you before may affect you differently. Remember, the physical vibration of your body is changing. Anything of a different, non-harmonious pattern can feel like a disturbance.
	Sudden changes in relationships, activities, plans, habits, jobs or residences. You are evolving, and some people and surroundings may not align with your present situation.
	Feeling isolated, a desire to go “home,” or as if you don't belong here anymore. Abandonment is one of our most frequently expressed fears. As your emotional body responds and core issues are brought forward, you may feel alone. This loneliness can feel like homesickness. Or, you may feel foreign, as if you no longer fit with your surroundings. Some interpret these feelings as a longing for a geographic place; others as a longing for a more spiritual place.
	Anxiety and panic. Our egos’ main purpose is to ensure our physical survival. Often, the eqo’s strategy is to maintain the status quo, and so it fights hard to keep things consistent. Resistance to change can manifest as feelings of anxiety. Things are happening that you may not understand, and changing behavioral patterns may make you feel vulnerable and powerless.
	Depression. The outer world may not be in alignment with your new vibrations. As you release old habits, you may experience a grief reaction to the changes in your life. You may feel like doing nothing. You are in a rest period. Your body is asking for what it needs.
	Encountering situations that seem like your worst nightmare. Finding your way to peace is a test you have created. Take comfort in remembering that your soul would not take these steps if you weren't ready. Looking back, you will have gratitude for the experience.

Navigating Through Change

Perhaps we can now all breathe a collective sigh of relief as we realize that change is rampant and we are not alone in these common experiences of transition. So, what can be done to navigate this growth process with more comfort and ease?

	Rest. Your body is going through an incredible transformation. Honor that process and respect your body’s request.
	Pursue your creative passion. Find your passion in those activities that you do well and give you energy.
	Embrace the process. Remember that your journey is of your own creation. Dispel worries about the destination and enjoy the process. Release the concept of being in control. Let Spirit guide you.
	Exercise positive thinking and visualization. Notice when you are happy and tell yourself, “I am happy right now.” Pay attention to what your physical self feels when you experience these emotions. Celebrate your feelings!
	Use whatever beneficial support is available. Support can come in many forms: exercise, conversation, herbal remedies, massage, and more.
	Spend time in nature. You may find that the stillness, natural rhythms and deep peace found in nature are in harmony with the higher spiritual vibrations you are experiencing.
	Make yourself comfortable, and focus on the positive. If you find yourself sensitive to crowds and noise, avoid those situations. Seek out whatever makes you feel good.
	Love everyone – especially yourself. As spiritually aware beings, it is our natural tendency to love others. Including oneself in that practice is critical to our success. For until we find a way to unconditionally love ourselves, we have no idea what we might offer others. During times of transition, having a firm and comfortable foundation – knowing with certainty that we are loved – is essential.

The news is good. We are all growing, individually and collectively. We are not alone. Spirit has confidence in us and continually shows us the way to progress. Let us encourage one another and greet the new challenges with celebration. Take the step!

Reverend Kimberly Chancey is an Anchorage area engineer, scientist, researcher and teacher. She conducts the Anchorage Community Spiritual Gathering, based on the belief that Universal Truth lies in the unification of Human Understanding.

* Some of the signs listed in this article were adapted from “What’s Up On Planet Earth” (www.whatsuponplanetearth.com).