One Apple A Day #832 - Spirituality
Day two of this journey into these strengths cards, and it's already a tough one. At least it is for me.
I had a very religious upbringing that played a big part in making me who I am today. Until my late twenties, I've been very active in my parish. I lovely memories of those years; a lot of fun and a great sense of belonging.
Then something broke within me. I began to perceive the forms of which I was part, as empty shells. That sense of emptiness became so strong that I had to walk away.
For many years, I did my best to stay away from the word "spirituality". As if it was tainted somehow. It took me a decade to release the beliefs and conditionings that come with that word. Only then, I was able to begin a new journey of rediscovery to bring back that part of me in my life. And almost another decade to become comfortable in using this word again.
Now I see spirituality as the ability to perceive the essence beyond the form. And it's an ability that I practice every day.
I haven't written much, but as I said, this is not an easy word to write about. So, I'd like to share two writings that I love on the subject.
"The Mystical Core of Organized Religion" by Br. David Steindl-Rast is an excellent article about the relationship between organised religions and mysticism. The image of the volcano is so powerful, and it perfectly describes how I felt when I stepped away from religion.
"The Egg" by Andy Weir is a magical story that resonates with me on so many levels and can give you an idea of where I am today.