Skip to main content

Serving the World: A Spiritual Practice

Learning about how serving the world can be a spiritual practice was made easier when I encountered these four helpful shifts in awareness:

  • From Doing To Being
  • From Attachment to Nonattachment
  • From Obligation to Love
  • From Duality to Oneness

The first, the shift from doing to being, represents a change in focus from being task oriented towards being mindful of the attitude with which I approach my service. Someone coined the phrase “never move faster than the speed of love,” which to me describes the attitude I aspire to when service. When I am tasked oriented, I can sometimes be rough with people, and leave an unpleasant emotional wake behind me. I’m learning to focus on how I am being while I am doing what I am doing.

The second, the shift from attachment to nonattachment, reminds me that I want to get to a place in mind where I don’t let disappointment degrade my engagement. A paraphrase of what Krisha said to Arjuna when asked what kind of people he favored might be: those who are neither buoyed up by praise or cast down by criticism are loved by me.

The third, a shift from obligation to love, prompts me to acknowledge that some things in life are not pleasant, and yet we have to do them anyway, and invites me to discover whether I can engage in the unpleasant activity with my focus on love. I am trying to not let my aversion to discomfort stop me from being open heartedly engaged in serving the world.

Finally, the shift from duality to oneness, to me is about the realization that although it appears that I’m doing something for someone else when I’m serving, it is also true that I’m doing it for myself, or the self of me that lives in all beings.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Single? Poet? Pie Maker Wannabe? We have someone for you.

Some events in our Nurturing Our Community program go beyond food—they’re about storytelling, strategy, and sweet victories. Let me explain. If you love a good game, Euchre, Eat & Enjoy! is for you. Whether you’re a seasoned card shark or a total beginner, this night is all about strategy, laughter, and a delicious meal. Come ready to play, learn, and compete! Not into strategy? Harmony in the Garden: Music, Poetry & Bites offers an afternoon of live melodies, spoken word, and delightful treats in a beautiful garden setting. If you find joy in music and poetry, this is your perfect match. And for those who love to get hands-on, Berry Pickin’ & Pie Makin’ is a celebration of fresh ingredients and homemade goodness. Pick ripe berries, learn to craft a legendary pie, and take home your own masterpiece. Seats are limited, and these events will fill up fast! Bidding starts Sunday, April 6th—don’t miss your chance to claim your spot!

Science of Mind Archives Relocated and Reopened

I have wanted to visit Unity Village since I first became aware of it, and being at the opening celebration of the Science of Mind archives gave me a perfect opportunity to do that. I am in awe and appreciation for those who have gathered and found a way to preserve the teachings of Ernest Holmes in such a special place that I found Unity Village to be. At the celebration dinner, it was interesting to hear the presentations of those who spoke not only of the early days of Ernest Holmes but also of the Science of Mind magazine. Many of us no doubt remember our first introduction to Science of Mind, as I certainly do. For me, it was the Science of Mind magazine through which I then found the church. At the archive,s it was fun to be able to read and photograph the page from the Science of Mind magazine on the day I was born. How easy it is to take what we have for granted, and as I reflect with appreciation for the teaching and the preservation of the archives, I ask myself what am I doi...

Get Outside and Enjoy Great Company

Looking for a fun way to get outside, connect, and enjoy great company? Here are some events that bring people together for fresh air, good food, and interactive experiences you won’t want to miss! First, Birds & Blooms Garden Tour is a scenic walk through gorgeous botanical gardens, ending with a relaxing picnic. It’s the perfect way to slow down, take in nature’s beauty, and share the moment with friends. Next, Let’s Have a Pull Party! is a dream for BBQ lovers—an interactive experience where you’ll learn the secrets of slow-smoked pulled pork, then dig into a delicious meal together. Hands-on, flavorful, and fun! Finally, the Ives Pool Party for Kids of All Ages is all about play! It features swimming, games, snacks, and plenty of laughter—a family-friendly event designed for everyone to enjoy. These are just three of the 18 incredible Nurturing Our Community events. Bidding starts Sunday, April 6th—bid early and bid high to claim your spot! ------- Event #110   ...