Exploring the Path of Spirituality: A Journey of Self-Discovery
Over the past few weeks, I've found myself engaging in various discussions about politics. While it's a subject that can often be seen as boring or divisive, it's important to stay informed and engaged in the world around us. However, as someone who has previously been a Professor of Government, I must admit that my interest in politics has waned over time.
As I reflected on my own life journey, I realized that my passion for understanding the human mind and behavior led me to redirect my career towards psychology. It was a subject that truly fascinated me, and I had the privilege of serving as the executive director of several mental health agencies, overseeing the work of numerous psychiatrists and psychologists.
But as time went on, even psychology began to lose its allure. I found myself craving something deeper, something that would provide me with a sense of purpose and fulfillment. And so, I embarked on a new path of exploration - spirituality.
Embracing the Journey Within
For me, spirituality is about delving into the depths of our own being and connecting with something greater than ourselves. It's a personal journey of self-discovery and understanding that goes beyond the confines of any particular religious or philosophical belief system.
One of the first things I discovered on this path was the importance of mindfulness and being present in the moment. Through practices such as meditation and breathwork, I learned to quiet the chatter of my mind and tap into a sense of inner peace and tranquility.
Another aspect of spirituality that resonated with me was the concept of interconnectedness. I began to see how everything in the universe is interconnected and that our actions have ripple effects far beyond what we can comprehend. This realization sparked a deep sense of compassion and empathy within me, as I recognized that we are all interconnected and share a common humanity.
Exploring Different Spiritual Traditions
As I delved deeper into spirituality, I found myself drawn to explore various spiritual traditions and practices. I discovered the wisdom of ancient Eastern philosophies such as Buddhism and Taoism, which emphasized the importance of living in harmony with nature and cultivating inner peace.
I also explored the teachings of Western mystics and philosophers, such as Eckhart Tolle and Alan Watts, who offered profound insights into the nature of consciousness and the interconnectedness of all things.
Additionally, I found solace in the practices of yoga and energy healing, which helped me to cultivate a greater sense of balance and alignment within my own body and mind.
Finding Meaning and Purpose
One of the most transformative aspects of my spiritual journey has been the search for meaning and purpose in life. Through introspection and self-reflection, I began to uncover my true passions and desires.
I realized that true fulfillment comes from aligning our actions with our values and using our unique talents and gifts to make a positive impact in the world. This newfound clarity has guided me in making choices that are in alignment with my authentic self and has brought a deep sense of fulfillment and joy into my life.
The Ever-Evolving Journey
Spirituality, like life itself, is an ever-evolving journey. It's not a destination that we reach, but rather a continuous process of growth and self-discovery.
As I continue to explore spirituality, I am reminded of the importance of remaining open-minded and embracing the unknown. Each day brings new insights and lessons, and I am grateful for the opportunity to expand my understanding of myself and the world around me.
So, while politics may be a subject that can sometimes feel mundane, and even psychology may lose its luster over time, the journey of spirituality offers a profound and endless well of exploration and self-discovery.
Whether you're seeking a deeper connection with yourself, a greater sense of purpose, or simply a more fulfilling life, I encourage you to embark on your own spiritual journey. Open your mind, open your heart, and embrace the path of self-discovery and growth.
Remember, life is a journey, and spirituality is the compass that guides us along the way.
After UCLA College of Letters where I obtained PhD is Philosophy, Psychology and Religion I got a teaching job at the University. I felt uneasy teaching. I applied for a job in the mental health field; I got many offers and within two years was running the mental health center where I worked, supervising psychologists and psychiatrists who have been in that field for many decades.
Eventually, I felt bored by the job (of been executive director...I was barely thirty two years old when I was the executive director of the largest mental health agency in the city where I lived) and quit and tried doing other things.
Nothing I tried worked out for me. So, I did other executive director jobs but eventually wound up quitting and returning to college teaching until I felt that teaching is too easy for me; I felt unchallenged being a college professor (I filled my time writing on assorted subjects that interested me).
Eventually, I realized that I have a destiny and fate. My normal routine is to read until I go to sleep (although there is a huge TV in the house, I seldom watch it) and get up around 5 AM, think for a while, and then go to my computer and type the thoughts that I just had in my sleep.