Being a spiritual person

cerianwencraft

Sep 30

I have been challenged to write something different this week so here goes. First of all what do we mean when we say someone is spiritual? A quick search gave me 2 definitions. The first one states 'spirituality involves the recognition of a feeling or sense or belief that there is something greater than myself, something more to being human than sensory experiences and that the greater whole of which we are part is cosmic or divine in nature'. A second quote gives more 'you may begin to feel a strong sense of compassion, empathy, kindness and unconditional love for others. You may feel yourself also feeling more connected to animals and nature, and you may be more inclined to speak out for social justice and help those in need.'

Looking at these definitions I feel that I am spiritual as the descriptions seem to fit me well. I think I do a lot in the natural world. I use organic compost and don't use insecticides or other nasty stuff. My son and I planted a wild flower meadow and it has flourished so much that this year due to all the rain that it became a bit like a jungle. Having cut it back a bit there are still flowers and lots of insects.

I notice the insects in the garden area. I see the different kinds of bees and butterflies; I see the occasional damselfly and dragonfly. They are all important. This year I noticed which were missing and hope they come next year. I make sure the birds have food and water throughout the year and sit outside and watch and listen. Is this spiritual? For me , sitting there can be a very spiritual experience. I don't hear the traffic but only hear the birdsong, the rustle of leaves and the grass and it fills me with peace and joy. This week I was privileged to see an insect in a nature reserve that I had not seen before, a false ladybird. There is always more to see than we can ever see in a few visits somewhere.

I am very aware of social injustices as is evident in some of my previous blogs and have compassion for those less fortunate. This week I have been helping a resident who had a fall and is unable to do much for herself. It is important that we look after each other when needed. So does all this make me a spiritual person? You can decide.