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At
our December 13, 2003, meeting, we had a lively conversation about
social activism and spirituality. The topic was “How to be a spiritual
being, and at the same time, be socially active in transforming the
world.”
As we talked
two divergent views emerged. What was heart-warming for me was how
respectful everyone was, and how interested people were in inquiring
into the point of view that differed from their own. The conversation
was truly a dialogue, not a debate.
We started with
a quote from Rabbi Michael Lerner, author of Spirit Matters. He
said, “I think there are far too many people who seem to be involved
in a process of overcoming ego that doesn’t lead them to action to
transform the pain and suffering of everyone around them. And that is a
level of consciousness that is not close to what I understand by
enlightenment. I simply cannot understand how somebody could be a
spiritual being and not be actively involved in transforming the
world.”
There
were those in the group who agreed with him, reminding the group that as
we grow spiritually, we become more aware of the interconnectedness of
everyone and every part of the earth. Our spiritual experiences show us
that we are one with all that is, and this inspires us to compassionate
service.
Others took the
point of view of David Hawkins, (Power vs. Force, The Eye of
the I) who says that if one wishes to develop a high level of
spiritual consciousness, one must forego involvement in the problems of
the world, which are, after |
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all,
illusions. They also stressed the necessity for spiritual transformation
before we can heal the world. They talked of how wrongheaded and zealous
social action can be when people try to fix a problem despite having
little awareness of their own ego needs and consciousness. Some talked
about how powerful the cosmic, collective mind is in solving problems,
and that through simple prayer, meditation, and affirmations we help
build the consciousness to support life-supporting changes. One reminded
us that there is a time and a season for each of us to be involved
“out there,” and a time to be more introspective, as we walk our
spiritual path.
I enjoyed the
discussion because it is a subject I have pondered a lot lately. My
personal conclusion is that, for me, I need to be involved in some way
in addressing the world’s challenges. At the same time, I need to
maintain my spiritual practice, do my best to keep my ego in check and
to have a sense of detachment from the outcomes. Andrew Cohen, publisher
of What Is Enlightenment? magazine, expressed it well:
“What
is enlightenment for the 21st century? Profoundly conscious
and deeply passionate, ego-less participation in the life-process, ever
free from attachment, always resting in Being.”
So as our
nation enters into the season of presidential politics, my affirmation
is to participate in a conscious, passionate, ego-less, detached manner.
Oh my God! What a challenge!
Rosemary
Ritchie |
