12-Jun-2011

Come Gather Round

The Power of the Group

The path to spiritual enlightenment passes through three stages: personal, group and universal awareness. In Western society, we understand personal achievement. But to get to universal consciousness, you also need to master group consciousness. For thousands of years, those desiring to connect with a Higher Source have joined monasteries, lamaseries and ashrams to live, work and pray. So how does one experience spiritual community in today’s world?

Walking your spiritual path with others offers many perks. You experience the “mirror-effect” of seeing yourself reflected in another’s eyes. You learn to practice compassion, acceptance and humility. You may not be able to join a monastery or move to an ashram in India, so why not try a spiritual retreat? Participate in a weekly meditation or yoga class where interaction is encouraged. Volunteer to serve with like-minded travelers. Join your hands with others. Universal consciousness awaits you!

Recommended: Reinventing Community: Stories from the Walkways of Cohousing by David Wann and Volunteer Vacations: Short-Term Adventures That Will Benefit You and Others by Bill McMillon