Devotion
“Devotion
is one of those aspects of religion that seem to be both spiritual
and psychological. Many religious people devote themselves to certain
ideas and practices.” Thomas Moore (A Religion of One's Own)
I
have a friend who gets up as early as I do so she can conduct her
yoga practice in a quiet house, or outside before the noise of the
day begins. I have another friend who plays piano, and practices for
one hour every day. She also belongs to a contemplative prayer group
that meets regularly. Most of us have something that we feel devoted
to—something that makes our day feel complete and when we miss it,
we are out of kilter.
I
know several doctors and nurses who are devoted to their patients,
who make enormous effort to care for them in the best way possible.
And I know teachers who take their jobs seriously, who think about
their students and how they might better teach them even when they
aren't on the job. Many people love the work they do and are devoted
to excellence. Devotion is an important part of the spiritual life.
When we are committed to nothing in our lives, we are like boats that
have come loose from their mooring; we are adrift. Commitment and
devotion anchor us in our true nature, in our own divinity.
Pay
attention to where your dedication lies. Even if it seems to be a
purely secular practice, or your job, when you faithfully invest in
it, it becomes part of your personal spirituality. Practicing piano,
or holding a yoga stretch, or beginning each day in prayer; anything
engaged in with intensity and purpose may be your way of expressing
your divinity. What are you devoted to?
In
the Spirit,
Jane
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