Have you had any particularly spiritual experiences this past year? How has this experience affected you? "Spiritual" can be broadly defined to include secular spiritual experiences: artistic, cultural, and so forth.
I have had some small "epiphanies". I feel my charge is to keep my mind open and try to learn.
The spiritual learning session at the JCC-helped me understand the framework of being stuck and getting unstuck.
My first surgery. Hearing the cancer word. Meditated more and less. Felt so grateful to survive it, and get to be alive. I love this earth, its people and nature.
None that come to mind. It's been a rough year, I can't think of any spiritual moments that I took a break from the stress. My goal moving forward is to find gratitude everyday, no matter how big or small.
I have found spirituality in my yoga practice. It's what makes me feel connected to a larger energy or presence and brings me clarity.
I travelled to Japan and I fell in love with the country .and it felt like home. And I decided that it was the place where I wanted to be. I decided to move there one day .
No. I've lived 65 years and I don't think I've ever had a truly spiritual experience. Moments of calm, of peace, of love, and of anxiety are all, in my experience, human constructs.
I've successfully avoided the spiritual for over a year now. Its been difficult for me to keep my mind grounded in reality and to refrain from falling back into my old habit of latching onto religions, and other ideologies.
I went to some great Heavy Metal shoes this year. I swam in the ocean. I meditated. I ha few Moments this year where I felt more connected to other people and more hopeful for the planet - it is beautiful.
I cried over a piece of violin at the Disney Concert music hall, i dont even remember his name but I remember touching a part of me that i didnt know it existed.
My youngest fell from a high place onto a hard floor. I saw him falling in slow motion and I just prayed and pleaded, "God, let him be ok, don't let him die." He was fine. He cried and cried, music to my ears in that moment, but we didn't even have to go to the ER. People might think I'm overreacting, but those moments -- and I've experienced a few -- are miracles to me.
I have not. What I have experienced in the past year is a deeper longing to connect with a spiritual community. I hope to find that for myself this year.
This has been a tough year. The advent of President Trump, the continuing mess of Brexit and the terrorist attacks in the U.K., not forgetting natural disasters of hurricanes and earthquakes, and the more overt demonstrations of antisemitism at home and abroad have all been very dispiriting. I cannot think of a particular experience for this question. We're just seeking sparks of hope so we can keep going.
My most spiritual experience has been diving. I got dive certified in July just before I came here to Kenya. To be under water in a world of kelp so high as the redwoods, fish as friendly as butterflies in the forests and the openness that had my heart racing unlike ever before... it was everything I dreamed and more. It's set me into this path of conservation so that I may always be surrounded by the magic of nature and animals with no limits to sea or sky.
I have started doing meditation every morning using the Breathe app, even when I'm travelling. This daily practice has made me feel more grounded at the start of each day.
Nope. It's been all shit, and I haven't really gotten out of my head.
No particular moment.. but many moments in gratitude.. just 'being' in the moment for a change. Small shifts.. bigger awareness. Need to take it deeper.. Meditate regularly.. Yoga more regularly. But, the journey is deepening. Let's see if I've really picked it up by this time next year.
Between last year and this year I had a kind of spiritual journey, I traveled to Israel for the first time, and in that immense place full of spirituality I was able to define what I want to be, who I’m, discovered my potential and what I should have to do with my life afterwards, I attended 2 differen yeshivot and also I went to tons of synagogues in order to feel the unity of the jewish people despite their differences, every corner of this world as we say in the blessings of the Sh’ma has a spark of the Light of the Torah, and I understood that is because all the Jewish people transmit and spread this light whenever they are, so Israel for me is the middle point of the spirituality which I was privileged to experience, this changes affected in a good way, I have more inspiration to make paintings in which I add hebrew calligraphy that is one of the gifts that Hashem gave me, such talent I use to have a connection not only with my judaism but also with Hashem himself, and also I’m taking the big step of making aliyah which I know that is where my heart, body and soul belongs to.
This question seems like a bit of a cop out. Culturally I have been abroad and tried to get to know new cultures, but even in rural Asia I have had very few moments when I have felt the experience is much removed from home life. The closest I have come; is seeing how happy people are when they have so little. They have food, shelter and simple pleasures and this is more than enough. When they are not working, which can be much of the day for some, they see friends, drink, sleep but not look for more work or money
I am spiritually adrift, and I hate it. When I was growing up, religion was an important part of my life. As I grew older, I increasingly doubted the more miraculous aspects of my faith, and I especially doubted that any God worth his salt would exclude from heaven good people who practiced other faiths or no faith. I believe that it is my actions that define me in this world, not whether I can believe in something for which there is not only no proof, but much evidence to the contrary. I am grateful to my religion for providing me with moral guidance when I was young, and I still walk the walk. But I cannot talk the talk--I cannot say that I believe when I do not. I am not an atheist--they are too strident in opposing the very idea of a God. I believe in something greater that manifests Itself in a sprawling orange sunset or a delicate crescent moon, that comes to life when we reach out to help another person. Why isn't there a church for that?
The fact that so much turmoil is happening in the world had caused me to really open my eyes to recognize the signs the Bible warns of before Armageddon. I pray for courage to share my beliefs with my family and to hold true to what I believe. The solar eclipse was also a spiritual experience to me. When totality hit and were able to see the moon and corona of the sun, I became overwhelmed. It was incredible to see what Jehovah God had created through Jesus. Absolutely life changing.
I think getting pregnant and being able to truly feel my baby's presence has been a very spiritual journey cornering faith and openness for me!
Kept getting it was time to separate and that I have done my job with the kids. When we did separate, it broke the 3 year cycle of strife we had been having. I saw God Do a huge work in me and cam. Now he has made cam the husband I have always dreamed of. Alexis is on praise and worship now. And just last night she had her first date with the one who might be the one. Also, during our separation, I kept finding myself in places that I had been having recurring dreams about- like in Vegas , the tornado in rockwall on the highway, like God showing me He knew I would be here and it was going to be ok.
Over the past four or five months I've started meditating every day, and this has become a core experience in my life. I experience many moments of transcendence and joy, but as suddenly as they arrive they're gone. I tend to have the experience, then think about it, and once I'm thinking about it, it's over. I feel like I'm on the path in a more committed way than ever before. I'm excited to see where my practice leads. Ultimately I want to experience connection to Spirit all throughout my days, so that this connection can inform every choice I make. I'm on the path, and that feels very good.
No, also no specific cultural experiences. Unless In Mijnen Tijd TD counts, a party which I attended even though I had to work the following day. I felt old there, but still, surrounded by friends, it didn't really bother me. It kind of felt carefree to be able to enjoy a party without constantly thinking of who might be interested in me, how I looked, work I still had to do... Realizing I can still party when my working life had already started was wonderful.
Yes and No. Yes because there have been experiences and no because if those were really spiritual experiences then I probably wouldn't be here typing out right now. But then again, that's my limited understanding of things. One experience that comes to mind is my journey through Paul Brunton's A search in Secret India. It left me with a deeper yearning and deeper escape simultaneously. Another one can be described as- over period of some 1-1.5 months almost every evening till I would sleep, there was this strong sensation of uneasiness , like I could feel it in my gut. Just not at ease.. physically but not related or necessarily emerging from bodily issues. Few more experiences while reading Rumi's Masnavi and how it landed on me. It affected me in a way that I concluded that since I'm not going anywhere right away- and that felt like being stuck- so might as well dive into the samsarik world and see where that takes me.
again an eventful year but like last year nothing that could be defined as particularly spiritual .... so that's got me thinking ... maybe I am devoid and insensitive to any spiritual feelings myself ... that's a bit scary ... did have a new grandson and that evoked some undefined emotions ... maybe ???? .... this is definitely food for thought going forward ... what does spiritual mean ?
Between three international trip, our interactions with the landscape and geology, culture, history and economic realities provided deeper moments of reflection on the human connectivity we should embrace and revere. Seeing a space through different lenses is a mind opening opportunity and experience. And as always, nature never fails to provide lenses that remind us, we do not control the universe.
Is painting a spiritual practice? Yes, in so much as it connects me to others. At 42, I think I am feeling more spiritual and connected, and that the work of my soul is somehow now so much more 'effective' than it was when I was 22. I have a language, a mode of working. I feel a deep need to respect what I do/this, with, also, an understanding that it will help my nascent family, although Aaron is already 16 (and more than a half). Will we bring another child into this world, here now? What art has moved you in this way? Anish Kapoor, in Italy. Jaume Piensa - fabulous, the fountains/faces. Ana Mendieta (dead). Eva Hesse (dead). Pipilotti Rist. Bill Les Nympheas Painting this past year, in the challenged state of parenting an infant, and imagine - a year ago she was just 7 months or so old. You found a way through, and I think the need to paint was significant - - - in a way it will be again, when life - and intimate relationships demand of you. I also feel like if I can allow my paintings (I keep thinking of 'quadri'...it is a name to elevate them, or bring them outside of my ordinary realm - - - to get more space, significance....The need to value the paintings, and the good ones, but who to say it is good? Yes - the need to get support/people who believe in the paintings and proceed accordingly. In the way you think of dressing your small daughter, caring for her body. You must care for your body and the body of these pieces. Their outlines. Their limited quality, and yet there is a way you think of expansiveness - - - with the person, and with the artworks. But there are limits.
I sat on the beach in St. Andrews and watched the Red Sea rolling in. After an hour of sitting, listening, looking, hearing the waves and the seagulls, smelling the sea wood and salt air, I felt at home and at peace.
Ironically the spiritual moment just happened at our RH dinner. We heard the smoke alarm go off. Mike was smoking a brisket and assumed that was why so he unplugged it. For no reason I walked over to where the alarm was on the other side of the house by the guest bathroom and for no reason I looked into the guest bathroom even though i didn't have to use it...and I saw flames. I screamed and everyone came running with water and we put out the fire. The damage was minimal but if I had not walked over there the fire would have spread into the walls and who knows. My niece decided to dry her sweater on the halogen lamp. Yes stupid. But was it G-d using me to prevent disaster? Zlatie says its cause I did mitzvot that day. I'd like to think it wasn't just a random event. Maybe we all have things we do sometimes to prevent disaster but don't even realize.
I haven't been feeling very spiritual lately. I've thought about religion a few times, especially the dissonance that comes with leaving it while still being connected to it through my family and history. It made me feel angry on one occasion, and emotionally so, but I've learned to separate myself from it. I don't know if that's a good thing or not. Some people might argue that I'm nurturing apathy at a time when the world needs reformists and revolutionists the most. But if feeling in alignment with the universe can be considered spiritual then I've had a lot of it lately. Waking up and recognising the pair of parrots that have been making the tree in front of our house their home in the past year, pushing my body to the limit and rejoicing the feeling of pain as a result of my training, savouring beautiful food and relishing the warm touch of my partner - each and every one of it reminds me of the magical gift of living and being alive. And I'm grateful.
Went to services at the Conservative place and felt totally out of it. Never have been to any service so poorly attended. The Passover was a total joke with terrible food. Can't connect with Chabad, even though I've tried on several occasions and the Reform is just too far away in both directions. So, this is one very much alone Jew. Started wearing my pretty star necklace, more of a protest against antisemitism after those ass-hole neo- Nazi losers. A few people noticed. Else they all noticed and only a few people said anything. This year, except for the 10Q, I'm not really doing anything at all. No point really.
I don't recall anything in particular this past year. In some ways, I think much of that kind of higher level experience has been drowned out by the election and its aftermath. I'm in a very pessimistic place in my world view - this week Trump taunted North Korea in a speech to the UN in which he said he would "totally destroy" NK if NK attacked allies. I feel like the joy has been sucked out of the air. My good fortune in my family life is the emotional/spiritual currency that keeps me going but what kind of world will we grow old in? What kind of world mess will our children inherit?
There was a moment where I realized that even as I learn about myself I am learning about the universe and adding to our collective knowledge. I am the universe and the universe is me, interdependence. Immense gratitude for being alive, for the Earth and the universe existing. It's truly bizarre that the universe exists, that our planet is so perfectly placed as to have life and that we are this conscious. Even on a shitty day, we get to experience it. That is amazing. This plus Krista Tippet's on being podcast and being in the company of my beautiful amazing friends
Being out doors is always grounding and spiritual, and I just don't get outside enough. Whether it is at the beach, in the mountains, skiing, or sitting early in the morning in my backyard, it's very spiritual for me. It's open, expansive and grounding.
In going to Synagogue, I have deepened my commitment in learning and being. Doing the 60 days, has and is helping me do the work in Teshuvah/change. And the people I touch at work is awesome. So thankful. Also, opening our home for Shabbat dinners!!!
When I am writing my scripts and all the beeping/notifications etc are turned off my computer!
There were moments.... There were moments in the sanctuary that... 'transcended'? Too pretentious a word. Moments that contained a fleeting glimpse of another way of seeing. One Friday night I had one of those moments. I saw our service into a temporal direction. That Friday it was Rabbi Bach, and Judea Reform and Durham. But it had been and will continue to be many Fridays and many Rabbis and many congregations in many cities and villages over many centuries... Just for a moment, that moment, my sense of 'now' was lost in that immense river, and the river carried me along through a land less firmly tied to now, a land of spiritual aspiration.
Not really. I'm sad because my son is struggling with Tourette's and I'm mad at God.
Nothing really... I'm even grasping with what is my own experiences or what I create for appeasement. Its very disheartening to see that less and less I've done has been for myself.
Developping a strong 'sisterly' bond ! One of the first true and deeply meaningful feminine friendship in as long as i can recall... Thanks to our connection, I am empowered to be more kind, patient and playful with myself and others.
My spiritual experience this year was my trip to Arkansas to see my two amazing cousins and my Uncle Billy that I haven't seen in 21 years. My time with them, the talks that we had were so enlightening to me, but most of all listening to my Uncle talk about the love of his life and watching him weap after all these years showed me that is a love that I don't have in my life!
Sunset on boat at Cuttyhunk Concert Tchaikovsky violin concerto Sailing
For me, spirituality -- and religion more generally -- is all about connection, about how the light within each of us is brightened when we recognize the light in others. So my spiritual moments are also moments of connection. I felt that in synagogue that Saturday after the election, feeling part of a whole community that was wrestling with the outcome, sharing our sadness and anxiety and uncertainty. I felt it on the mall during the women's march, but also during my parents' memorial service, and at my first choir practice this fall. For me, this question doesn't point to a single moment but to a series of moments for which I am deeply grateful.
I started daily spiritual blogs on Facebook that have been a replacement for my weekly sermon writing since retiring. They have brought both joy and pain. It is very fulfilling.
Last year I led Kol Nidre at one of my local independent minyanim, and this year I led shacharit on the first day of Rosh Hashanah at another. The spiritual energy of davening from the ammud with the voices of my community behind me, along with their trust that I can help bring their prayers just a bit closer to heaven, combine for an incredible spiritual experience.
Beautiful nature
Yes, I had what I would describe as an epiphany, brought about by expressing my suffering to a community in which I belong. After hearing how others cared to respond to me, I felt as though I was no longer alone in my suffering. This connection led me to the epiphany, which I'll do my best to describe: All of the mental anguish I experienced was clogging my "freedom." The very painful emotions I felt.... prevented me from experiencing anything else other than pain. It was only by allowing myself to be vulnerable, that I discovered the pinhole way out of the very small space in which I continually found myself. Since, then, I have more capacity to discover a new way of being.
To try & recall a "spiritual "experience the one that came to mind was a secular one in which Artistically I was moved by a Broadway plays both powerful performance & even more powerful message about family & overcoming obstacles. The Play was " The Color Purple" the actors & actresses won awards for their incredible performances, yet the plays sponsor Oprah Winfrey always proclaimed the message was the plays true gift. As I sat with my wife thoroughly entertained by the incredible vocals, as the play leads you to its conclusion of this families triumph over all that befell them, tears filled my eyes as I related to my own families struggles. The message of just how hard life can impact families of all races & religions for so many reasons was clear before my eyes . Today I still marvel as I think back & remember the impact that this Artistically brilliant Broadway performance had in delivering to me the inspirational message obstacles, troubles, & failings can be turned around into becoming resounding triumphs in the end.
This has been a difficult year for me. Difficult at work trying to move the company in the right direction, and anxious about how to navigate the company in our rapidly changing world. Drawn in two directions, one that has me focus with new energy on the company and one that leads me to sell the company. On top of all of this, there has been the angst around a long term colleague who is having a particularly difficult time. Not an easy year. My answer to dealing with this has been to try and incorporate a spirtual practice into my daily life. One step of that is to mediate every day, which I have been doing. Meditating is not a panacea for me. It does, however, reduce my internal angst and help me feel more centered. The second is to work on cultivating a sense of gratitude. To remind myself of how lucky and fortunate I am. To remind myself that these are the good times. To cultivate a sense of confidence that I will deal with whatever challenges come my way to the best of my ability, and that is really all I can do. Finally, I have thought about my three life priorities, but not as much as would be helpful. In the coming year, I want to remind myself that I my priorities are to live in the present with gratitude and confidence, to give and receive love, and to live my purp0se.
For me, this year my spirituality has come from the almost daily walks with our dog Jack. Not only am I getting exercise, giving our dog exercise and listening to meditations and devotionals while I stroll around the neighborhood, but I am taking time to look at nature and even take some photographs, which for me at this point is my only artistic outlet other than music. It's been good because I've lost weight, I feel better overall, I'm getting sun (vitamin D) and I'm less stressed. I hope to continue when the weather gets cold, but I'm not sure how that will work out. In the meantime, I've spent more time outside than I have in several years. And to me that is the most "real" spiritual thing I have in my life. Church has been ok, but I see the end coming soon since our pastor is really failing health-wise like I've never seen him. When the church finally closes, I may end up finding a local catholic church to attend during the day, but I highly doubt I'll go to any Sunday services, and unless some opportunity comes up, I don't plan on looking for more work as a worship leader. I think I'll look into doing gigs at brunches, wineries or something.
Finding Judaism as a family this year has brought in many sharp spirtuial experiences. My son and I spent some time quietly meditating in a valley high up In the mountains connected to all around us and sang the Shema together and as it echoed back to us I was left with out words. I also went to wilderness torahs tu'b shavat in the red woods with my partner where we had a huge break thorough regarding the loss of our daughter.
The morning of Nana's funeral, I cleaned my house with a vengeance: scrubbing the top of the cabinets with soap, salt, and lavender oil. I thought I was fine, and prepared, and had become callous because I'd lost three other grandparents. I selected a morning acoustic playlist on the four minute drive to the church, and a song I'd not heard before called "Emmylou" came on. I completely lost it -- and the song unleashed an unstoppable flow of tears which seemed to say "lest you forget, you will ALWAYS be a crier, and you do NOT have your shit together today." I felt so connected to -- her? -- or this vast universe? -- or both? Maybe I just wanted to believe it was coincidence, but it was such an incredibly beautiful song (not Nana's style at all, but wildly comforting). I just was speaking with Dave last night, actually, about religion, and how it cannot be classified as a singular concept -- music, art, people, and traditions, and places produce a religious experience. That was so true on this day.
I think having a grandson has been a spiritual experience. There is something about the presence of this new life and watching him grow that is just awe-inspiring. I never had children of my own (my grandson is from my step-children) and didn't have a desire to have them. While spending time with him has not changed that or made me regret those choices, it does seem to have opened up a new side of me that is manifesting in other ways. Perhaps this is combined with entering the latter half of my 40s and beginning to experience other changes, but bringing awareness to how these things are shifting my energies and my desires is something that I place in the 'spiritual' category.
Running still is as close as I come to a spiritual experience. This year, I've been running in a park where there is a lot of wildlife and have come close to lots of wild animals while running. The most exotic/unusual was the red fox I saw. But they all stop me in my tracks (even a turtle) and make me wonder at the glory of our world. Even though it's become almost routine to see deer, I still am amazed and surprised to see them. And I hope that sense of wonder never leaves me.
Yes! I have been doing the same things over and over this past year ever since AFTER i finished college and volunteering in the Hospital. I now find it very motivating to Prepare for Kiddush and Shabbat every friday. I think that has affected me to be invested by the routine spiritually. I no longer have to think cause i already know what to do by the end of the week that i always look forward too. I feel so Jewish and proud.
Nothing really spiritual... I have been enjoying more of what NYC has to offer, such as theater and musicals... Next week I will begin Team Power and the SHRM prep class.
I really haven't. This has been a very unhappy year for me. I've pulled away from life. I've pulled away from my family. My partner just has become someone I don't recognize after the cancer.. I've taken it hard. I just can't make it through another break up again. Too painful. So I hold on for dear life and everything around me becomes a blur. Even Yoga.. and cycling. This year, I'm taking it back.. I'm taking me back. I'm letting go. I love him enough to not allow his loss to destroy me. I love me enough too.
Not that I can think of, except perhaps the eclipse which I have already spoken of.
NOPE. I hate the word spiritual. OK ok, I'll have to think just a little deeper. I'm sure I can answer this question. Maybe this question is more about whether you've experienced something strong or powerful. Obviously watching my daughter be born was the most powerful thing that has ever happened to me in my life. Most of the times when my wife and I have sex it is a shade of spiritual. I've had moments walking on the street when I've been struck by the beauty of the world and my joy in it. I think it is these small moments that come closest to something "spiritual" for me. When I am alone and able to take in all the things around me, and how incredible they are.
The bad: 3 funerals. 1 awful Election Day/the Day After. Many times feeling like I hit rock bottom, emotionally and professionally. The good: seeing HRC/RBG and Rep. John Lewis all in the same week. Seeing Hamilton. Celebrating birthdays and cooking for people. Every time I am a part of an audience or hosting something, I feel a deep connection to humanity. It's been a year of wrestling with my Judaism, and how that translates into my life.
Since retiring in October 2016, I've spent a lot more time on my own. Being an introvert, that's natural for me. It's enjoyable. I've been able to spend more time writing in my journal, and that always brings more comfort, more well-being. I have more confidence that I am doing exactly what I'm supposed to be doing. I'm actually semi-retired, working seasonally, January to May. Then I have the rest of the year off. Perfect. The people I work with are quite different from me - very outspoken, weary from living difficult lives. Surprisingly, I get along with them very well. They've learned to appreciate my differences from them and I've learned to appreciate them also. I need to be there and I think, in many ways, they need me there. It's where I belong for now. And I'm thankful for my life. Just as it is.
I don't believe that I've had any spiritual gifts, realizations, or goals achieved this year. I have, however, managed to accomplish some very important steps in my personal rehabilitation ten year plan regarding my social and connections development. Plus, I've spent more time with my mom this year than in the last twelve.
Under the broad definition of spiritual, then yes. Again, through therapy. My spirit is severly damaged. I can shove everything under and ignore it, but the damage is there. I hope by practicing radical self care, I can mend some of the damage. Like a Japanese bowl.
No question that my heart surgery was the most significant experience this year. A wake-up call on enjoying life NOW! Taking the family to Hamilton was a wonderful cultural and very enriching and beautiful experience. Trudi's compassion and caring and my deepening love for her through my surgery was truly spiritual.
My grandmother has been unwell since last December. It's becoming clear that her health is probably going to continue to deteriorate and she may pass away soon. Lilia is so aware of everything around her that I felt like we needed to discuss what was happening with GG and what she thought or believed might happen when she dies. She says she likes the idea of GG turning into her spirit animal after she dies. It's times like this when I really wish I had a strong belief in what happened after death. All this to say that my spiritual experience is rather a lack of a spiritual experience and an awareness that believing in something that told me what is next for GG would make it easier for me to say goodbye to her.
I was instructed by my husband to find a job before August 2017. We had closed our business the following year and we had enough budgeted to take a little time to figure out what we wanted to do since we were basically starting over. I wanted to give my freelance/VA business a go but he wanted steady income. I had been gaining in my business, but not enough to satisfy him. He was starting to get antsy about it and looking for jobs for me. I decided to give it up to something bigger than me and asked that if it was in my highest good to get a job, that I would like to be able to not have to work too much and at the very least be able to use my gift of design in the job. I also put it that it would still allow me to work with my current clients and to grow my business so that I wouldn't need the PT job. A day later I heard about a part-time job that fit the purpose and I would be able to use my administrative assistant skills as well as my design skills. I was hired within a week of the prayer. I've been working PT since June. I have been able to manage my existing clients and I'm steadily growing my business each week. My husband is now seeing the need for me to be able to work on my own and wants to look at our budget to see if we could cut back in order for me to quit my PT job soon!!!!
None that I can recall specifically. There have been moments when reading a story or listening to a podcast has moved me to tears. In that sense, being moved that much is spiritual in a way. These were moments when I felt deeply connected to the storyteller and I shared something with them in a way that I felt spiritually connected.
unfortunately, no
Spiro Mounds. Planned it, did it, walked with the ancients. Colored Sands, and saw them stretch out to eternity. Got lost, got home.
There have been moments of spiritual experience, but nothing that significantly changed my life. I have been reading Mary Oliver's poetry, an experience intensely spiritual for me. Sometimes I read only one poem and can't go on because I am so profoundly moved. I think her work is a place of solace in these times, a reminder of what is precious, what it has to say to us about living. I do feel hungry for the spiritual, so hungry that I almost bought 20 acres at the ripe age of 71 just to have my own Mary Oliver experience. Perhaps a spiritual experience is what I need to reinvigorate my life. How shall I go in search of one?
Back in January I started getting this feeling of a dog spirit sleeping near me on my bed. I have been without a dog ever since my last one passed away 2 years prior. I wasn't really intending on getting another dog right away. I didn't think I was ready yet, but every morning I would feel this little presence beside me. The feeling got stronger and stronger until I could actually see her in my mind's eye, like a little dog spirit. This spirit was with me every morning. Sometimes it was so strong I could almost feel her warmth. I named her "Ruby" and somehow just knew she would be my next dog. Then one day in March, a dog-rescuing friend of mine posts a picture of a puppy she pulled from an animal shelter. My heart skipped a beat, but she was so far away in Arkansas, and I'm in California. I thought there was no way. I heard she had gone to a home locally and so I fluffed it all off, but still I would wake to the spirit dog. After a couple weeks, my friend posts her picture again. "Monkey Girl" was up for adoption again. I knew I had to have her. She made her way to me by volunteer caravan and now I wake up every morning not to a spirit dog, but to the face licks of a very exuberant puppy. My Ruby.
This year I was able to see two artist who I had wanted to see for a long time. Seeing Frank Ocean preform live was a really emotional experience - a lot of his songs have a very personal meaning to me and seeing them live brought out a lot of the feelings I have surrounding them. I’m addition, seeing Tyler was also Ana amazing experience. Given the fact he was supposed to be my first concert back when I was 16 have the experience a feeling of completion almost, that I wasn’t waiting for it anymore. I know it’s weird to count these experiences as spiritual but being an atheist my spiritual experiences are limited to ones with personal historical signifnace.
Taking Rabbi Weiss' "Spiritual Autobiography" class was very moving for me. It made me realize how flawed the Judaism of my childhood was, and how deeply I have been craving a more meaningful Judaism. When she spoke at the high holidays about people having searched for spirituality outside Judaism because they couldn't find anything that moved them within it, she spoke with sadness, implying that there really was more to see than what we've all grown up knowing. I'm willing to try. I started with Selichot services, which were beautiful. I'd like to try more.
I stopped praying for help, and started praying in gratitude. I feel like I have the means to conquer my troubles, but I should acknowledge my appreciation. It helps keep my perspective in check.
I have had no particularly spiritual experiences this past year. I think I am just now realizing that and I am realizing that is an issue.
Our trip to Cambodia and Thailand last November had many spiritual components. The lantern releases at Loi Krathong, chanting monks in Chiang Mai, learning about the intensely heart wrenching recent genocide history in Cambodia, and going through spectacular temples and ruins throughout Angkor Wat, just to name a few, there were endless moments where I witness the beauty and power of God, and at other times wept at the sadness of humanity and asked God for mercy and grace.
This answer is oddly similar to an earlier answer, my 50th anniversary celebration - as I looked around the table at the restaurant - 3 children, 2 daughter-in-laws and 8 grand children and my husband I realized that outside of my relationship with God this was the most important thing in my life - this is the thing that gives me joy seeing a family where everyone there loves everyone else there, makes me cry now just thinking about it
One particularly spiritual experience I had this past year was when I attended a Rosary in Langa, Flores, Indonesia. One of the community members had died, any many members of the community gathered in a house to sing/pray for him. It was very moving and powerful to hear everyone's voices coming together to produce something so beautiful-- the haunting, deep, fluid song that was repeated over and over again. It was incredible seeing everyone in their ikats, and I think one of the most impactful parts of this ceremony was that everyone was sitting on the ground, against the walls, pressed close together next to each other, and facing inwards where everyone could see everyone. It was a moment of sheer vulnerability, with people crying, singing (which is quite a vulnerable thing to do), and all the while looking at each other. Despite not being catholic, I felt deeply connected to everyone in that room during that hour.
While at Herzl, my summer camp of 10 years, I was teaching golf. The best experience I had was having a camper succeed in golf by making a Birdie also known as 1 under par. This was the most satisfying experience I've had because this told me that my teachings were starting to help and be used. The fact that a child used something I gave them to help themselves is pretty cool and really special.
Had many thoughts about god and universe. Watched focus - I believe in Freedom and the universe. As well as medidation. I still would like to dive more into music/art
Nope. Not a one.
A big thing this year was finishing NFTY. At spring Allah, my last event, I was a complete mess. Services were so inspiring and I took the time to enjoy them and the music and really be able to just soak it all in. The Havdalah happened, my favorite service, and that really hit that it was all ending and it would be the last time we'd be sitting like this. This all changed my life so much and I'm so fortunate for every second of it.
I honestly can't recall any particularly spiritual experiences...which saddens me. I like to think I'm in touch with my creative and spiritual sides, but this year, for me, was more brutally real. What this means, then, is that I must up my game next year to be more aware of my own spiritual needs...inviting them in, not just relying that they will come unbidden.
I wouldn't say it was particularly spiritual, but I recently took a flight and sat next to a pastor who spent a good hour trying to convert me and convince me that it was destined that we meet. He was adamant about the fact that God had placed us together and that I should be on the lookout for a sign. When that sign comes I should go to a church lest I reject God. Funnily enough, a day later when I was walking across a square I spotted an old friend that was handing out leaflets for the Christian students Association and he gave me one. I haven't been to the church yet though. Unfortunately, he wasn't able to convert me to his belief, but it is interesting nonetheless. Whether it was faith or a coincidence I do not know.
So I will say that the most recent experience I had that affected me was being in services on Rosh Hashana and having my rabbi say that we are held to a higher standard - that we are chosen not for special treatment, but to aspire to act like God. It made me think many things - how rare it is for a rabbi to mention God being one of them, oddly enough - but most saliently the idea that being human is such a privilege and that we have the spark of God in us and that that spark should hold all of our actions to a higher standard. I hope to aspire to that standard daily in the coming year.
I think the accident has brought me closer to my spiritual self. I have delved back into Judaism more and have become more thankful for everything. I still struggle with the day-to-day spirituality. I find that the more times I attend services and think about the studies of Torah I become more at peace.
Yes, walking while holding my zero point, source of most resource and source. It was like walking on clouds, swimming through energy, I felt every living thing around me including the air.
This year I did something absolutely new. I prayed by proxy in the Wall in Jerusalem. Both for me and for my husband. It was asking for a miracle as I was in terrible moments. As far as it goeas, thigs are slowly resolving.
I watched my spirit revive after quitting a job that was leeching the life from me. It was profound to watch myself come alive again after a few months.
Yeah, I became way more involved in Judaism.
I went to my first operas this year and that was transcendent.
I believe my G-d helped me get this job I have now. It was really tough last few years with jobs for me. I feel like This job was meant for me. I'm Grateful every single day of my life.
I think the total eclipse qualifies. While it was nothing but a celestial coincidence, it was still incredible and somehow moving to see. Definitey reinforced that whole “tiny blue dot” thing. We are indeed small creatures in a giant universe.
On Friday I watched a young woman with Down Syndrome open the Ark and blow a kiss at the Torah scrolls. That was the most spiritual moment I had in synagogue for the entire two days. Seeing her innocence and her faith was an inspiration. Unfortunately nothing else in the service was at all spiritual. For me, the most personal spiritual experiences are being with children----my grandsons and the children I work with as a volunteer. Seeing their innocence and the innate goodness reassures me that there is reason for hope.
Nothing too spiritual, I don't think. Maybe lately I've been feeling better about the idea of becoming spiritual again. I was confirmed Methodist and the more I see their outreach and inclusion of minorities, LGBTQIA folks, and others, I've really felt better about the idea of church as a community. One of my friends is Jewish too, and hearing her talk about how she's come into her faith and how it's helped her has really sparked something in me to at least think about going back to faith-based worship. Maybe this does count as a spiritual experience?
I can't remember a specific moment but when I am in Synagogue - there are moments when a particular prayer speaks to me and reinforces my faith. It is for these moments, I am at Synagogue and pray.
My gratefulness quotient has exploded as I move more deeply into my body and experience what is enough, what is too much, why I want too much, how to be here, live more simply and savor the moment.
Digging for vinyl with my best friend was awesome Having the ability to spend an afternoon sifting through crates of records was so much fun
I've felt more spiritual this year than in quite some time. It's helped me hold onto my ideals and keep faith.
If by spiritual you mean difficult , yes. Working with Holocaust survivors was a test of my faith in a good God that cares and weeps alongside of us. My faith shook, my prayers felt empty. It was very sad and lonely. A good retreat brought back glimpses of divine presence, and I still feel very shaky.
I don't think I have had any particularly spiritual experiences this past year. I haven't felt all too inspired or enlightened, nearly at all, since moving to Arizona. I'm not sure why . . . maybe it's because this isn't truly my home, despite all perceived intentions? Or maybe it's because I don't necessarily have an outlet - not through shul, or through nature, or through literature. I've certainly read some great books (i.e. The Secret Book of Kings), seen some awesome movies (i.e. The Arrival), and listened to some unbelievable music (i.e. Leonard Cohen's last album), but all in all none of those were spiritual or uplifting [to the heavens]. They were just really good.
I have had a number of times when praying and having deep study of the scriptures that have brought wonderful spiritual experiences. Teaching seminary has also brought similar experiences.
The most spiritual experience for me this year has been sitting at the lake, just taking in the surrounding, watching the reflections and the light on the water, watching the little fish, the frogs, the amazing birds -- loons, osprey, even an American Eagle. I've also gotten a lot out of our "Art and Spirit" group on second Tuesdays, even learning to appreciate the value of gong meditation
This question is always a reach for me. My first reaction was to write "well, actually no." Stretching for an answer: going to a labyrinth walk with TM this spring. Good to be outdoors in the park at sunset. Got a thread of meditational-style mindfocus, but there were just so many people there -- too much social conflict of "am I too fast, too slow, in the way, don't trip or trip someone else with the cane." Hard to concentrate on what I was there for. I did so, but it had a note of arrogant selfishness I didn't like. Would be fine were I alone; not in a group setting like this. Spirituality is just not my bailiwick, even the unconventional varieties. ETA: Just read some of the Public Answers to this, looking to see how others responded. Interesting to see more versions than I expected like mine (the "Um, no, not really" response, or "I have to kinda stretch to get an answer here.")
A few aya experiences opened me up to the under world of the universe and how everything is happening in the most potent possible way. Life is bursting every moment even if we don't see it. Tuning into the power of faith and prayer is all there is to feel the divinity all around. Opening up doorways with people through the Triba Marking and Photography has been beautiful. Not forgetting how potent those experiences are for me and for those I touch. Witnessing each new days potential either bursting with abundance or playful insight. Seeing those moments as precious and making moves to fully experience is the only way! Never stop learning growing loving feeling asking touching wondering.
I think I prayed for the first time in a really long time this year. When a kid at camp drank himself into oblivion and I knew he was going to have to go the hospital to be on a ventilator I remember praying to ANYTHING above that he would be ok because it was not my fault but I was the one who was going to have to explain to his family what had happened, and I remember feeling like a peace within me when I realized he was going to be okay. I'm so much more aware now. I realize that everything about my life can switch in an instant because of the actions of someone else. It makes you want to be careful with yourself and careful about who you associate with, the ethics of a given situation--whether the needs are being met and how they're being met. I pushed myself during that whole camp because I wanted to conquer it even though I knew it wasn't being done right. That night was like a reminder of how people can affect you.
drum circle is always spiritual. It encourages community, fun, culture. Always feel fabulous after even with sore hands and shoulders.
I was in SanFrancisco and walking by a "cathedral" I was on the back side and had to walk up hill and around to get to the front entrance. I went in and a service was already in progress. I waited at the back for the opportunity to enter. The words were resonating. I felt so welcome, as were gays, drug addicts, transgenders, drunks and myself. It was an episcopal church with a woman priest. As I was leaving, I asked for and received a hug. It occured to me that I am a child of the universe. One God. Many ways of worship. All are welcome. Brothers and sisters with all of humanity. What a joyful feeling!!!!
I had the amazing experience of attending the first night of Phish's Baker's Dozen concert series. Sitting up on the bridge of Madison Square Garden with my darling as Phish played my favorite concert of theirs I've seen yet, was most definitely a spiritual experience.
I don't think I've had an particularly spiritual experiences, and continue to explore what spiritually actually means for me, since I don't believe in a god per se. I do recognize being in the zone when I paint and that may be as close as I come.
I am very happy with my Tibetan Buddhist meditation practices which are done daily and throughout the day. I also enjoyed visiting with some local sangha for events this past year. I was only able to speak with my teacher once in the last 12 months, though, and that is due to his ill health, which I fervently pray will improve soon. May all beings benefit.
I can't say this year was very spiritual for me. However, making it back to synagogue for Rosh Hashana, which was haven't been able to do due to illness for the last 2+ years, made me realize how much I appreciate being there during this spiritual time.
I am busy learning about the Reform movement and hoping to learn that it is OK to be flexible
My heart has shifted slightly away from organized religion due to my previous church's business plan failing, the new church's negative effect on my family, and the discord between me and Danny over the differences in our respective forms of organized religion.
As mentioned earlier, it's been an amazing year, mostly good with some bad, which we've recovered from - thank G-d. I should say the most spiritual experience was the birth of our twin grandchildren and while it has been an amazing experience, I can't get Jared's illness and hospitalization (last January) and months long recovery out of my head. How he suffered before we discovered and corrected his ulcers. How my daily hospital stays affected me, kindness by friends and family, but his strength even with his severe disabilities amaze me then and amaze me now. How precious is life and how lucky we are to be given the strength and positive attitude to deal with him and totally enjoy and be grateful for our lives. He's in the backyard now making happy sounds. What could be more spiritual than that.
I think the moment in Cuba with the man giving us the "blessing" coin. That struck me as a profound, sacred moment. On a more mundane level, having Wolf express an interest in learning more about Judaism with me- with no expectation of his conversion at all- has meant a lot to me. Taking on the task of Jewish learning as a couple, and experiencing the High Holy days with him for the first time, has meant a lot to me spiritually. I cannot express how grateful I am to have a partner who values my religion, even if he doesn't share it.
I don’t know that I have had any spiritual experiences per say. I have definitely grown this year from my conflict with a friend - that is where I learned where I stand as a result of my decisions, and where it is important to recognize when someone needs to take personal responsibility. I have learned more about how to maintain an affirmative community, and distance myselves from those who always take but never contribute, and to recognize genuine connection and reciprocal relationships vs a manipulative and parasitical relationship. Part of growing is leaving what holds you behind.
I have no idea what "spiritual" means. I never did. And I doubt I ever will.
No. I am not a spiritual or religious person, at all. What it *has* done is shown me moments of great art and how they affect me. The world has been revealed as a horrible place. But moments of joy, especially at live theater -- Hamilton, Holiday Inn (silly though it was), and Hello, Dolly! -- have reminded me that joy and beauty exist. That art is powerful because it can make you feel love and hope, and inspire you to be better and care more. Those things are not frivolous in these awful times, though it can feel like it -- why go see art when the world is ending? The answer is because art reminds you that the world is worth saving.
I cannot think of a defining spiritual moment, unfortunately. I think I became closer to my religion when reading and seeing such hateful things happen with Neo Nazi movements and attacks against the Jewish community. Seeing people I know personally affected made me angry, hurt, and upset. But it also made me remember how resilient of a group of people we are.
Although it didn't happen to me, this year during Hurricane Irma people were amazed in the Caribbean and in Florida as the ocean water literally disappeared as the wind pushed the water away only to bring it back later. It truly reminded me of the parting of the sea in the Torah.
The Women's March was a spiritual experience. To feel so connected with millions of people all over the world who care about making the world better was incredible. I should consider calling my awful senators each week a spiritual experience -- sort of a meditation/prayer/penance/cry in the wilderness, a way to reconnect to the greater spiritual experience of the march through smaller daily collective action.
I could not think of anything but JOHN suggestion- about little Jessica leaving the hospital How affected me - hugely significant even when I have felt so unwell recently I have not felt I was back in hospital
I don't recall any spiritual experiences.
I will list several over the past few years, mainly because I was wrapped up in my own grief after losing my father and my girlfriend 6 months ago. Since I've been in NYC, G-d has put my in places I needed to be, and it hasn't always been FOR me...sometimes it's for someone else. One in particular, was just before Shabbos and disabled member of the tribe was struggling up the stairway of the subway, and he fell right at the top (yes, you can fall up stairs), and I caught up before he experienced the full impact, helped him up, and as I helped him to his feet (as unsteady as they were) and wished him a good Shabbos, and his attitude immediately changed from one of hardship and struggle, to one of joy. Another event, I missed my train for an arranged date with a NYC prosecutor, (who while quite attractive, is a bit stuck up and couldn't get over the fact that I'm not a typical NYC Jew and grew up on a farm in the middle of nowhere, she heard that and her brain shut off. Her loss). ...but, that entire date wasn't for me or for her. Had I not missed my train, I wouldn't have been able to catch the next one, and catch an elderly tribe member who was too busy studying on the train, so that when there was a sudden lurch in the train; I was there to catch him. Still, other moments ARE for us. I went to visit the Rebbe's Ohel, and both the Rebbe and my Father came to visit me. Not in images or visions, but they were there, and I got the distinct impression that they were both proud of me, and that they were even friends in the spirit world. I'm sure they had many conversations in the short time since my father's passing. I have a feeling The Rebbe liked my father, and I know my father would've liked him. My father might have been unrefined and rough around the edges, but he was a good man and appreciated good people. I have to believe that because of my attachment to the community, I think the Rebbe might've even been helping my father decide what to do while his soul was still on this earth.
Seeing my dad do amazing work in the post-Trump world, getting more in touch with my Judaism, finding my calling in linguistics and philosophy...
Absolutely - I think learning about the upcoming arrival of a grandson in December filled me with a great feeling of a spiritual presence. I felt like Hashem was really listening to my prayers and answering them. In Question 1 I wrote this too, but I thank Him every day for all our blessings. I felt more connected this year to my past, all the ancestors before me and really experienced it during Slichot when the nigunim were sung which made me realize how many before me had sung them.
I am being assaulted time after time by deaths around me of those I love. I lost my Mother during the height of hurricane Matthew and she passed away as the storm eye was overhead. I was still recovering from the loss of a close friend Tony, who was one of a little group from my wife's high school that stayed together and close over 60 years. Then Bob, our best man from our wedding, lost his precious wife over the past winter. I have seen him a few times and he was here to celebrate our 50th anniversary which was so painful to him as he and his life long love only got in their 49th. Then this past week a dear neighbor, more like a daughter, died next door in hospice at 42. Spiritually, I need to gather my own inner strength, accept my aging, yet each day I must to choose to "rage, rage against the dying of the light."
The "realization" of Echad, Oneness, at very deep levels. Many Shabbat evenings resulted in an enhanced awareness of this. When I let it, it affects my thinking and feelings dramatically. Also, the idea that the Creator is in control of everything, that everything is inherently good and light, oftentimes waiting to be discovered and exposed. I've been struggling with these revelation and then the notion that I'm supposed to choose what I will do but do it with holiness, as opposed to following the river if you will and just do all that I do with holiness and Shalom. Whichever, holiness is the key, reliance on the Source is the key, Shalom and Echad are keys.
I was carried this year by my higher power.
I discovered the work of Matthew Fox and Creation Spirituality while struggling with a theology class. His principles are inclusive of everything I believe. I think that when I am finished with my masters, I will pursue studying at the Fox Institute. WHAT IS CREATION SPIRITUALITY? Honoring all of creation as Original Blessing, Creation Spirituality integrates the wisdom of Eastern and Western spirituality and global indigenous cultures, with the emerging scientific understanding of the universe,and the passion of creativity. It is both a tradition and a movement, celebrated by mystics and agents of social change from every age and culture.It is also the tradition of the historical Jesus himself since it is the wisdom tradition of Israel. –Matthew Fox PRINCIPLES 1)The universe is fundamentally a blessing. Our relationship with the Universe fills us with awe. 2) In Creation, God is both immanent and transcendent. This is panentheism which is not theism (God out there) and not atheism (no God anywhere). We experience that the Divine is in all things & all things are in the Divine. 3) God is as much Mother as Father, as much Child as Parent, as much God in mystery as the God in history, as much beyond all words and images as in all forms and beings. We are liberated from the need to cling to God in one form or one literal name. 4) In our lives, it is through the work of spiritual practice that we find our deep and true selves. Through the arts of meditation and silence we cultivate a clarity of mind and move beyond fear into compassion and community. 5) Our inner work can be understood as a four-fold journey involving: – awe, delight, amazement (known as the Via Positiva) – uncertainty, darkness, suffering, letting go (Via Negativa) – birthing, creativity, passion (Via Creativa) – justice, healing, celebration (Via Transformativa) We weave through these paths like a spiral danced, not a ladder climbed. 6) Every one of us is a mystic. We can enter the mystical as much through beauty (Via Positiva) as through contemplation and suffering (Via Negativa). We are born full of wonder and can recover it at any age. 7) Every one of us is an artist. Whatever the expression of our creativity, it is our prayer and praise (Via Creativa). 8) Every one of us is a prophet. Our prophetic work is to interfere with all forms of injustice and that which interrupts authentic life (Via Transformativa). 9) Diversity is the nature of the Universe. We rejoice in and courageously honor the rich diversity within the Cosmos and expressed among individuals and across multiple cultures, religions and ancestral traditions. 10) The basic work of God is compassion and we, who are all original blessings and sons and daughters of the Divine, are called to compassion. We acknowledge our shared interdependence; we rejoice at one another’s joys and grieve at one another’s sorrows and labor to heal the causes of those sorrows. 11) There are many wells of faith and knowledge drawing from one underground river of Divine wisdom. The practice of honoring, learning and celebrating the wisdom collected from these wells is Deep Ecumenism. We respect and embrace the wisdom and oneness that arises from the diverse wells of all the sacred traditions of the world. 12) Ecological justice is essential for the sustainability of life on Earth. Ecology is the local expression of cosmology and so we commit to live in light of this value: to pass on the beauty and health of Creation to future generations.
I can’t recall any specific spiritual experience this past year. Again, I know I am with God and He is with me. That gives me peace as I am moving through this transition. It’s me, my God, and my dog right now and we are pulling through.
My church is in a program of reading through the whole Bible in a year. I have never done this. From years of reading in sections, I have read it all, but not straight through in one year. It has been interesting to me to become more familiar with time frames and the themes that recur throughout the Bible, both Old and New Testaments. There have also been times I have thought it's amazing anyone stuck with this long enough for Judaism to survive and Christianity to emerge. I was born and reared into the Christian faith. It is so ingrained in me that I can't imagine life otherwise. I am grateful that from the beginning, throughout the Bible people questioned; God sometimes gave a satisfactory answer or often didn't, but the questioning is OK.
The most memorable spiritual experience this year was joining Women of the Wall at the Kotel for Rosh Chdesh Sivan and having an Aliyah - second Bat Mitzvah. Seeing Rudy the Torah opened and having been called up - what an amazing experience in spite of the background yelling and taunting. I have also seen some beautiful sunsets and cloud formations - some captured on camera - and had many butterfly visitors in the garden. I am Blessed to be surrounded by beauty.
In the past year I've found again part of that genuine awe for the world, that magic that often accompanied me as a child, especially when reading novels. I've read more, and more novels, and that contributed greatly to it. In general, spending time appreciating art, in its broad definition, seems to help a lot to awake again these very pure, primitive feelings.
This past year I meditated just about every day (I think I missed a total of five days). During my meditations, I allow myself to feel joy in whatever form that is presented to me--with no judgements (that's key). As a result, I'm able to experience joy in some way in every day things, music, theater, listening to a moving podcast and reading an amazing book, gathering with friends and family and truly feeling that community is family. My meditation practice has been one of the biggest positive changes in my life, and I can honestly say all of these moments of joy are, in some way, spiritual. I'm looking forward to going deeper with my meditation in the coming year...
I enjoyed learning with Rabbi Michael Paley and participating in the alumni seminars for the Nahum Goldmann Fellowship. Engaging in Jewish learning with other Jews from across the world makes me feel connected to something bigger than myself. I feel that I do not have as much spirituality in my life as I would like. I aways struggle to bring Spirituality from the intellectual realm into the quotidien family experience. I hope I will do better at it next year.
Not exactly spiritual, but along the lines of the supernatural. My dead uncle talked to me (more like yelled at me, emphatically) in dreams. This started a few years ago, after his death. First he came through a stone tunnel, attempting to "pull" my aunt (his wife) by the arm through, and take her to "the other side" (he kept saying). She kept yelling, "No, I'm not ready! Stop!" She tried fiercely to get away from him. Called him by name. Kept pulling back the other direction. I called her the next day to ask her how she was doing. She said she hadn't been sleeping well, because her dead husband kept coming into their room at night and sitting on her chest until she couldn't breathe, trying to pull her out of bed and through a tunnel of some sort. No joke. I went to sleep that night. Saw them again. He was again trying to pull her through a brick or stone tunnel. Could have been somewhere in Greece, from the looks of it. I stopped him. Grabbed his arm. I said, "She's not ready, and you're scaring her. You have to wait until she's ready." He agreed. A look of love and compassion was on his face. He realized... I called my aunt again two days later. Asked her how she was sleeping. She said the nightmares had stopped, and that she was no longer feeling like she couldn't breath because he was sitting on her chest. She didn't get the sense that he was trying to pull her away anymore. . . Then--three years ago, another dream with him. He warned of an impending sickness and the death of his wife, my aunt. He grabbed me by the shoulders and yelled, and unintelligible noises came out of his mouth; however, the message in my head was very clear: get the family together and "Help her! You have to help her! Make them listen, please. No one else can hear me! Get them to come together for this! You have to get them to listen to each other and stop fighting!" So I called all five of my cousins (his offspring) and let them know something was up, and said something like, "This is gonna sound really weird, but your father came to me last night in some kind of dream and said I needed to get ahold of everyone. It's your mom, and I think something's really wrong. I think she's in trouble. Call your brothers and your sister(s)." They got in touch with the caregiver, who had told no one that she was in serious decline and organ failure. No one except the caregiver and the doctor at the hospital knew this. I didn't know... and no one from their side of the family had talked to anyone from my side of the family... But he warned me. There had been some infighting amongst a couple of the siblings (all of whom I hadn't seen in at least two years). I had not spoken with my aunt in a couple years, because the caregiver couple had sort of cut some people off from contact. I had no idea of her condition. She'd become kind of a shut in and had stopped keeping in touch everyone. Her husband (uncle) somehow knew to come to me to get everyone together. Because he appeared with his message, they were all able to make it to her bedside just days before she passed. It made me feel like a humble vessel. I was glad they took it seriously. I like that I was able to hear him and get the family together for her sake. Also - I've asked the universe several times for very specific things --- all of which have been made available to me in short order and in every detail. Truly - amazing. I believe in the power of the universe's ability to hear and respond. One day I said "Dang. I wish I had someone to help me clear out this yard of debris." Ten minutes later, I see a guy walking toward my house. He knocks on my door. Asks if he'd like me to get rid of the pile of wood, rocks, and weeds in my yard. I asked if he'd ever been to my neighborhood, and he said he hadn't. I hired him on the spot... the rest is minimalization history. Crazy, but true. I hadn't seen anyone like that in the neighborhood. Kind of a neat coincidence.
I witnessed someone die for the first time. I was the "rabbi" in the room. I said a prayer with the family, and then I stayed in the room, and I watched as the family's matriarch died. It was sad and holy.
Yes, My brother had been sick for years (his own life choices) but in July of this year he was admitted into the hospital and 7 days later his soul left this earth. I had not received word yet that he had passed but was told it would be any time that day. I was on my way home from shopping and was stopped at a light...it was 4:44 and a flood of memories of my brother washed over me, tears started streaming down my face and then I felt a sense of peace and knew in that instant he was gone. 45 minutes later my Mom called and confirmed what I already knew
I had a vision when I was high at a music festival. Mandalas of my teachers were gesturing for me to join them in bringing magic and healing to the world. It felt deeply affirming and motivating.
This summer, I was blessed to lead shabbat services at an all girls sleepaway camp. The first Shabbat, only the staff was present. 75 women for whom Shabbat at camp was a cherished time. Standing in front of them when we sang "Miriam's Song" was a revelation. I have been singing that song for as long as I can remember (at my own coed sleepaway camp, at services in many synagogues) - but always with both men and women. Standing in front of this congregation, however, I witnessed a tribal chant, a battle cry, a celebration the likes of which I had never before experienced. It was breathtaking.
I have been single now for only a summer; it feels like years. I tried online dating and something inside me told me it isn't right or the right time for me. So I deactivated my accounts. I continue to see a therapist twice a month bc there's definitely some kinks in my mind that I need to straighten up. As a writer, I avoid editing at all cost; I do the same with the story of myself that o continue to tell myself every second, every minute, every hour of the day. My story needs some editing and before I can forward as a writer whose life is full of joy, the story of me needs a few rewrites.
In my life I have learned many things which are spiritual in nature. These things I knew in my head. They did not begin to become real, until I had a personal experience and began to believe these beliefs are important and should govern how I live and interact with others.
I've been practicing meditation every day. My brain is clearer and my anxiety is much lower. The more I understand the process, the more useful it seems to be.
Almost four years ago, my husband and I left our church of 20 years. We knew we had to leave when I asked our new pastor why she had taken the confession out of the liturgy and she responded, "We're progressives. What do we have to apologize for?" We were lucky to find a new church that included a confession in the liturgy, and while that has always been an important part of my week, this year I felt God's presence more deeply when I said my prayer for God's grace. As I grow older and feel a greater urgency to live my life more fully and meaningfully, I also appreciate God's forgiveness (and the forgiveness of people I have wronged) more, and I have taken to heart this year the idea behind grace, that I am human and thus do wrong and make mistakes, but that I am loved anyway.
I say the "shema" prayer with my sons every night, translating from the Hebrew to my secularized interpretation: "Hear all people: the Universe is sacred, the Universe is One." Even after a crazy, frazzled frustrating day when I feel I have totally missed the mark as a parent, this moment feels very spiritual to me. I have felt deeply connected to spirit in these moments as I hold my boys in my arms and ponder our connection to all other parts of the universe.
A particularly spiritual experience I had over the past year happened during the first school liturgy of the year, at which I was a Eucharistic minister. As a Eucharistic minister, I sat in the front row. This made singing more comfortable. Since there was no one in front of me, fewer people could see my face. I sang candidly, and so my spiritual experience at Mass was more candid and real. I was present and engaged, and the emotions I felt were not restrained. Because I felt more engaged, I was able to pay closer attention to the readings, rather than zoning out after half heartedly trying to focus for a little. I did not just hear the readings, I listened to them, and they spoke to me. I achieved a closer understanding of God, and thus God and I became closer. When it was time for Communion, I went up to the altar with the rest of the Eucharistic ministers and received the Eucharist. I made sure I was fully aware that the Eucharist was God’s flesh as I consumed the wafer, and so my mind and soul were in the right place. I felt my venial sins rinsed away to annihilation and my soul being sterilized. There is something about cleansing that is so very pleasant. I then took a bowl of wafers and went to my station. I was to give the Eucharist to Aruppes. One after another, the middle schoolers came to me in responsible and genuine solemnity. They understood what this was and they were thankful for the opportunity. “The Body of Christ.” “Amen.” One after another, I facilitated the reception of God Himself for dozens of boys who reminded me of myself in years past. Their youth portrayed their innocence, which in turn reflected the innocence that God brought to all of us through this Sacrament. Every so often, someone would come up to me with his arms crossed and his hands on his shoulders for a blessing. I would put my hand on his shoulder, making a physical connection, and say, “God bless you.” I was a conduit for God’s blessing, and I could feel it travel through me. On that day my soul was exposed to God’s grace.
In temple on Rosh Hashanah when the arc was opened and the cantor was chanting tears suddenly sprang to my eyes. I cannot fully explained why beyond to say I felt moved. Deeply moved. My daughter was with me for the first time, the music I know in my bones, the urgency of the cantors voice, the ageless humility of the words, the chaos of the times we live in. It felt spiritual and raw.
Learning how to approach God as judge and speaking His words over a situation instead of just crying to Him. Being more mature knowing who I am
Our wedding was a spiritual experience for me. While it wasn't a religious ceremony, pledging my love and commitment to Ben was an experience unlike any I ever had. I thought I would feel scared, doubtful, fearful, but I wasn't. I was so sure that what I was doing was right and that Ben is the person I want to spend the rest of my life with. There was so much stress leading up to the day, but it turned out to be so wonderful and perfect for us. Seeing the results of all of my planning come together in a beautiful event gave me a boost of self-esteem that I hadn't had in a while. After going through so much shit, Ben and I were so surprised that the wedding went off without a hitch. It was a perfect representation of our relationship and the things we love about each other. We did it our way, just like everything else.
My first inclination is to say that no, I haven't had much in the way of spiritual experience this year. And it's true there isn't a moment that sticks out. But as I reflect on it, it seems like I've done a much better job this year of weaving the spiritual into the every day. There are two "resources" that I've learned to employ this year. Each has its own phrase. One is "I am a person worthy of love and dignity from the universe," and the other is the simple word, "flow." The first feeling helps me ground in my best self. The second helps me relax and release pain and tension physically. My ability to reach these feelings and deploy them to improve myself, my physical and mental health is, in some way, itself, spiritual.
It felt like a spiritual growth when my misery no longer was making me cry and sleep. The tenant was nuts, the house nearly did not sell in time, the very last two weeks included more surprises and pressure. Earlier, I thought I would pop from pressure. Then I managed either stuffing down, or floating with it. Not sure which. I was grinding my teeth, a month later, my jaw still hurts. Buying the RV felt special. I had no anxiety from past parts of life. No doubt. Just a good bit of research, and the comfort of keeping a thing of value from the sale of he hous in WA.
Yes. after wanting to do this for so long, I auditioned for an area choir, a master chorale. I got in! The music we create is beautiful, and life affiming. I am so happy.
Nah.
after noticing the case, i told P i love him. with NO expectations, even asking that he not reply. thought thru, looked inside, got past the vulnerability: IT IS SO!, so THERE! plus, spent time thinking about little miracles, as and after they happened. and anonymously sent chai$ either to my synagogue or not for profit as a way to say thanks. (remember when a person driving by, several blocks from my home, told me my camera was sitting on the top of my car?)
Fewer. The Great American Eclipse was very partial where I was. I'm planning to be in the path of totality in 2024.
I have been to the mikvah before, but this year I did it in the ocean in preparation for the High Holy Days. In a year mostly bereft of spiritual moments, it was a highlight.
My New Years resolution this year was attending at least 5 artistic/cultural events in form of concerts or shows. I have one more to go. The first one had a sort of religious theme, about faith and doubt and finding your own way. It struck me deeply, although I’m an atheist. I have gone with my mother, my husband and us all together. It’s been great and I want to repeat it next year.
Life has been very different this year; many disruptions, personally, professionally...and of course, politically, globally and locally. It's been a profound experience; an acceptance of aging, inevitable change, some fear for the future of life as I've/we've known it. And yet, a belief that good and sane life will return. That is the spiritual for me.
I really found out how much judaism means to me. I'm not sure how to describe it, but the amount of friends I've made have impacted me in ways I can't explain.
This past year I entered, then re-entered rabbinical school. My experience there has been one of spirit, love, compassion, and grace. The spirit that fills the room when all of us are in it, the love I have been shown by people I have only known for a short time, the compassion towards others, the grace for things done and said.
I think that I have them every day in little miraculous ways . When I don't think things can work out , somehow they do . So. I think that's G-d looking out after me.
I went swimming in tne middle of the sea in Trinidad at night. It was scary yet very freeing. I haven't felt that at peace with myself in such a long time.
I have made a commitment to work on my spirituality this year and it has definitely brough me some amazing blessings. Everytime I feel that I am at the end of my rope, God finds a way. I have started praying AT LEAST twice a day. In the morning to thank God for allowing me to wake up and all of the blessings that have been bestowed on my family and friends. My daughter, Courtney is also working on her spirituality and has decided to convert to Judism. She asked me if I minded and I told her, absolutely NOT! I am so proud of her believing in a higher being and learning to live her life that way. Finally, I pray at night to thank God for his continued blessings and realitively good health for me and my parents. All in all, God is Good!
Nothing specific, but when Cleo, my second grandchild was born, I rocked her and sang an old folk song, Dona, to her. This brought me back to one evening when I was rocking her mother. The sun was setting and I thought about how one day my parents would no longer be here, and that I too would pass from this earth. To me, it was an existential/spiritual moment and I felt a sadness which still lingers when I recall my beautiful parents.
I'm spending too much time trying to understand how I feel about the word "spiritual". I never call myself that or label events as spiritual. So I'm not sure I understand what constitutes a "secular spiritual" experience. Perhaps being intensely inspired? If so I try to look for and activate that type of experience as often as possible, daily, and ultimately minute by minute is my goal. Having my job go away has been a good one! When this happened I was thrilled to see what came along to fill it's place, and found that what I had daydreamed about doing for work manifested in some very unexpected ways. Also, my deepening friendship with Kristen. She is someone I would call spiritual. We often talk about our intensely inspired experiences and our attempts to gain deeper understanding of ourselves. Aside from my husband I have not had such a close friendship where we openly shared our vulnerabilities, our laughter and our tears.
An awakening within is stirring me. I love my faith tradition and believe wholeheartedly in Jesus' teachings. I aspire to live by them and be a Christ-like example in my life. However, this awakening is pulling me away from the church that I have spent most of my adult years in. It feels spiritually dead to me and only inward focused. I need a faith community that is action oriented and relationship driven. This decision has brought with it a deep sadness and a sense of loneliness for the loss of the community of beloved people. Not one of them has reached out to connect in my absence and it truly hurts that I considered many of them to be my friends. My yoga training has deepened my spiritual beliefs that we are all connected and also to accept that not everyone is on the same path. And so it is with love and respect in my heart that I release the old and embrace whatever the new will bring my way.
It's been a difficult year. I'm still struggling with my brother's death. Although I tell myself I did the right thing by telling the doctors to let him go, the fact is he lingered for three long days and nights. Did I do the right thing? My cousin died this year after many years of struggling with Parkinson's Disease. It was awful for her and her children. I know I wouldn't want that for me. I'm grateful my brother didn't go through that. My best friend is on dialysis. I see her struggling. Her mind often is not clear, her energy is gone. She is depressed. This is all since she started on the treatments. Again, I am grateful my brother didn't go through that. In spite of all this, I still struggle. That has been my spiritual experience this year.
Taking the Viking Star Homeland cruise on the Baltic Sea was both an artistic and cultural spiritual experience. Visited 8 countries, 11 ports. Did many old city walking tours. We, the USA, are such a relatively young country and really have had very few bad things war-wise happen to us. As a result, overall, imo, we don't know what bad, sad times are and are such a disposable country. Little regard for historical bldgs. or events.
Working in the North of England has affected me in such a way that I can't explain at this moment. I am aware that I am not from here and I appreciate that I have been accepted as part of a community. I find that I do get irritated when people don't recognise a cultural difference and expect that I should agree with their opinion because I live here. Living in the UK does not automatically mean that I have to agree on every subject, I can respect having an opinion but I won't agree by association. I'm not sure that I'll grow out of being offended that my irishness is brushed aside. The one thing I am sure of is that the UK has not been influenced as a culture in the way others have been impacted by the UK
The closest thing to spiritual has been watching my children's academic and athletic achievements.
Yes. Profoundly
Yes! Feeling the presence of Jesus more and more, and being with him in each moment. It gives me great peace and joy! Particularly trusting him about Kevin, Mel hoping to get pregnant, David's and my upcoming retirement, sad happenings like Harvey, our jobs, beautiful lessons at church, and all of life.
The big answer to this one is I am searching for my spiritual home. I am not finding it at our old temple and have not made a strong enough effort to find it where we now live. Even before this question, I committed to seeking something out this year There were many spiritual moments during my father's shiva where people from all walks of my life were gathered and raised their voices in prayer, song and with stories. I loved it and love the jewish rituals and teachings . I just have to do more searching.
The notion of "spirituality" still eludes me. I wish I could understand what it means. I had experiences that I guess could be described as "spiritual" but they are so rare and far between I just wonder if that what they are
I was able to transition from constant fear and worry to an inaugural place of peace, if only in temporary moments.
When Margaret died, I went to see her with Yvette. Seeing Yvette cry and pray was a humbling experience for me. I saw someone else with a different religion pray for someone they cared for. I couldn't move my feet to go sit with her, it was like God had given them a space to say goodbye to each other. It was like God had kept me in the corner for a moment to help make sure Yvette and Margaret said goodbye to each other.
I have found the minyan to be a balm. And the Shabbat and Havdalah rituals have become a soothing framework for my soul. I feel Shabbat now. I look forward to it. I feel connected and blessed and it is the part of the week I look forward to. This blessing feels like a blessing.
The one thing Im learning is that just because Dad and Mom are physically gone doesnt mean I dont carry the relationship, good and or bad and its effects with other people around with me. Whatever I havent "cleaned up" is left over here on earth and the lessons are played out with people in real time especially if I get into a romantic relationship. The good news is if I pay attention Im not my dad and neither are other people nor are women my mother. And I can let myself off the hook and finally allow my parents to rest in peace.
I've had several spiritual experiences. Of course, the most obvious one is looking into the eyes of a hospice patient and seeing their relief as we sing for them. This occurs at least once a month, though I sing twice a week. The other was learning that my pancreas didn't look right after having an ultrasound exam. I had to have a CT to see if I had pancreatic cancer. The good outcome of that CT gave me a real release - at least temporarily. For at least a week I was buoyed by the news and didn't let my small self get in the way of seeing the good all around me. The viscerally felt knowledge of my own mortality feeds my spiritual yearning and often opens my eyes to the beauty in my environment.
I don't know what "spiritual" means. Is "secular spiritual" an oxymoron? Does an emotional response (getting "the feels") count? If so, what's the difference between emotional and spiritual? Thinking on it, I realized that I’ve had a “spiritual” experience, which I'm defining as a notable melding of thoughts, emotions, and sensations, every time I’ve read these words: "It says I've been Canadian since I was born." My friend is as devastated by the election and, especially, threats to our access to healthcare. She realized that her late father's birthplace of Canada meant that she could be eligible for Canadian citizenship. So she applied. And, just like that, she is and always has been Canadian. Wow.
The closest thing I've had to a religious experience in the last 12 months was seeing Hamilton.
Beginning study of Mussar has put me in touch with Jewish spiritualism. Meeting people who one knew my sister always reminds me that the departed are not gone while there are still those, family, friends, colleagues, who remember them.
I've been trying some buddhist meditation and practice. While I'm not a hardcore spiritualist, I think meditation has some serious benefits. I've been trying to go to church but I have trouble connecting with the catholic teachings.
I have had spiritual experiences by allowing myself to learn how to take care of myself. It's theittlw things that give me my spiritual experiences daily. The other Boyer experience was taking a trip to Honduras for a yoga retreat. One of the most peaceful beautiful places o. Earth with fellow yogis looking over the beautiful blue water.
I'm fairly certain that I haven't had any particular spiritual experiences, apart from occasional flashes of a sense of grace, or a sense that the world is very small in relation to the vastness of the universe, but my attention seems to be almost completely absorbed by the absurdity of our current sociopolitical world. I suppose that teaching art history gives me a lot of insight into larger worlds and histories, but sometimes it feels only like a distraction. But, there's really nothing wrong with constructive distraction, I guess, since life seems to be mostly a distraction from the inevitable.
I went to the mikvah after waiting 13 years for the chance. The experience was nervous, anticipation, but once I got into the water, it was just between me, the mitzvah and the Divine. I wrote about the experience and still need to tap into it from time to time.
Yes. Several times. One I particularly remember is Urquhart Castle on Lock Ness in the chilly rain. It was other worldly. I often have spiritual moments in the presence of nature.
Insightful but not spiritual experiences this past year. I come close with moments of joyous gratitude. I walk around Washington DC and see places that have deep meaning for me. I give thanks for all these places of beauty, friendship, accomplishment and inspiration. I own the memories these places evoke. They are etched in my mind and my very being. I will always have them with me, no matter where I am physically.
I have trouble with spiritual. I aspire to it, sure, but I've never been able to define the feelings that send me somewhere else as more than emotions, with very few exceptions, mostly about art and my love of my children. Maybe it's because I believe in science, maybe it's because being in this body of mine so grounds me. But then there are a few books that take me to a different place, and music. Sometimes film/video. The last season of The Leftovers did it for me. The music of my youth, with some exceptions and add-ons, does it for me. A sentence can do it for me. A conversation sometimes takes me to a place where I feel lifted above the workaday world. The natural world can do that too. Though participating in the Women's March in DC this year was a great experience, it felt nowhere near spiritual. This year, especially, was not a spiritual year. A's abuse of his body, hospital stay and subsequent re-adjustment has kept me firmly tied to reality. But there are always moments. The lava fields, yesterday. The eclipse. My moments of deep rapport with my mother and children. Love.
I would like to have something positive happen that I can clearly define as spiritual. In the meantime, I would define my wonder at the sky somewhat spiritual- I'm always amazed at how beautiful it is, no sky is ever like another- the colors are different even a little on cloudless days. I love watching the activity in the sky as dusk falls- bats, birds. The sounds are wonderful- crickets, katydids, cicadas, birds and occasionally pissed off squirrels if my cats are outside. I'm glad that I am open to these things. Even wandering through creeks, hunting the wily geodes that are in the creek beds- it's pretty awesome.
I took up meditation in earnest this year. And while there was no definitive "experience", there certainly was a journey and development. And a better understanding of all the work that I still need to do in order to feel like a better person.
My most spiritual moment was on a late summer sunny day when I drifted out on an empty, peaceful lake on a paddle board, a silent early afternoon hour when osprey drifted overhead. I was reminded of how easily accessible that place of peace is, found in a moment of intimacy with nature. My most spiritual times have been in solitary commune with nature...that day on a river rock talking to a dog, time spent on O'brian creek, a walk on snake lake when the birds frenzy in the spring. In my hectic life, I hope I can tap into that moment to ground myself.
I'm in Barcelona at the moment. I'm having a lot of spiritual moments. There's the movement looking for Catalan independence, it has the spiritual component of wanting to belong to something smaller and more personal. There's a long history of a proud people who've been repressed and who want to be themselves and in charge of their destiny. It's very moving to be here for a small part of the experience, especially with the actions of the Spanish government trying to stop the referendum.
Standing up in front of everyone at kiddush to thank the community for its good wishes before we moved was a powerful experience. I felt humbled, choked up, grateful for the pull and sustenance of community.
In the spring we went to see the migration stop for the trumpeter swans & snow geese, there were more than 50.000 birds. Being in the midst of them lifting off the water, circling and landing while crying beautiful notes moved me to tears. Also seeing the solar eclipse in Hopkinsville Kentucky was such a moving and I use this word carefully: Awesome experience! To look at the corona and try to fathom our star made me feel all is patterned perfectly, that we see the sun corona only because the moon fits completely inside the sun from our viewpoint! The greatness of mystery is 'Spiritual'
Our cat died this year and we held a memorial for her with our children. It reminded me how much tradition and Judaism play a role in our lives and help us understand and process difficult life experiences.
I became more involved with my tyg as well as nfty. Though it didn't make me more religious I think it connected me to other Jewish people in a way I hadn't felt before.
My friend R was ordained as a priest. I am very proud of him, and glad that there is such a resource dedicated to good in our city, and I am so grateful he understands my spiritual concerns and discusses them with me. He is a real blessing.
Not really. Perhaps my step work in AA and reading a book about trying to live in the Now brought me some success in side-stepping my own ego way of struggling through life.
The most spiritual experiences this year have been time spent with family and friends. Giving myself permission to stop and enjoy the people I love!
Going to Bethlehem and meeting Palestinians, having a range of crazy experiences, meeting people I still want to keep in touch with (thanks Facebook!) And just being surprised beyond surprised at everything. Being the only Jew in the dining hall. Leading tefillah. Using the skills I learned at BTS to facilitate a completely different type of healing. Being depressed and inspired at the same time.
Much more connected to my wee ginger doggie, named Frantzie Not really church-wise but it has been interesting hearing from Colin about Egypt. Really connected to the jetty at the lake as a place of quiet and connection with Place Lots of "moments" in nature while I am walking with Frantzie my dog
So far this year has been "spiritually" void. No big experiences for the "ah ha" moment. I have done some work with a local photographer that has lit my camera bug a bit. I felt really good about pictures I took for my step son and his girlfriend of their new baby. But not sole searching, life changing. I'm feeling lost so that may be part of the problem.
The day I received my stem cell transplant was a spiritual experience. My doctors had just dropped the “nuclear chemo bomb” on me - designed to completely destroy my diseased bone marrow - and my transplant day was considered my “new birthday” as these stem cells were going to grow new, disease-free bone marrow. I could actually see my stem cells travel through the IV tube; and I asked my transplant nurse how the stem cells know to flow through my blood stream then find and re-enter my bones? “That’s the mystery,” she replied. “We know a lot of things about bone marrow stems cells, but the one thing we don’t know is how they find their way home.” I lived/witnessed a scientific/divine mystery that brought me new life. That was a pretty spiritual experience.
I have been seeking one, that's for sure. I even went to a workshop about a Japanese religion founded in the 1800s. It's I think, the only world religion founded by a woman, and focuses on "God the Parent" who wants for all the people in the world to be brothers and sisters and feel joy. I wish I was the kind of person who believed in stuff because that would be a nice one.
Going to camp barney was spiritual for me. Sitting on the dock in teen village really helped me connect with the earth. I've been doing my best to connect with the earth and environment. Yoga and mindfulness are helpful in that. Good sex also helps me connect to spirtuality.
Perhaps two. I'm not sure spiritual is the right word. They were experiences where I was very close to something outside my usual world. Both happened in Africa. One is a bit weird. We had a very long and pretty arduous hike to see the mountain gorillas in Uganda. When we finally came across them I was transfixed. Watching a baby play "I see you" with us, swinging on a vine, peeking out at us and occasionally turning round to hug the large sleeping silverback as if for reassurance just let me see how close we all are to one another. If species are so similar aren't all human beings. Peace ought to be possible. The second was very different but gave me a glimpse of of an inherent human dignity. We were taken to visit a living specie in on of Nairobi 's large slum. I say living space, not house, deliberately. Perhaps ten feet square, dirt floor, no windows, two beds, a small cook stove, a small table, some cooking pots, home to a mother and two children. The space was spotlessly clean and a bit of white embroidered cloth was hung up along the ceiling. Decoration. Something nice yo look at. A very young and dignified mother talked with us about life in this terrible slum, the cost of her space (15 dollars per month), the recently constructed toilet and bath facility nearby, her children in town and her children "up country, ". No tears, no complaints. Pride in her children's school work, acknowledgment of how hard life is, but no whines. When you think about people earning billions and billions of dollars who complain about sharing some for say healthcare for others, or education for others, it makes you want to both cry in despair and scream in anger. And yo give a little more in hope for others futures
I have decided to use my Jewish rellgous heritage to become more of a spiritual Jew or a religious jew. In hope that this will lead me out of my path of depression
Being with my old lover through his last night on earth. I had visited with him most days for a month in his SNF, which was really awful. I changed his diapers, siphoned the mucus from his lungs, and filed toenails that were so neglected one came off to reveal another that had been growing under it. He was quite vain, so that was important to him. Took me more than an hour! But with his stroke, he could only really communicate with someone who knew him well. And the SNF was so understaffed, even the well-meaning staff simply didn't have time to spend with him beyond some rushed custodial care. After 4 months with no music or TV, I managed to negotiate a TV his last few days, so he died to Bach organ music, his favorite. He lived for music, so this deprivation must have been awful for him. Despite his $4M in assets, the court appointed conservator would not let him come home to die. I could barely get him the morphine he needed at the end. It was like being in a war zone. Then one day, I could tell he was on the verge of death. I pulled up a chair and spent the night at his bedside. Holding hands all night with my old friend was strikingly intimate-the way lovers sleep next to each other. Our hand would join for awhile, tender and knowing, and then he would slip away. Later, he would reach for my hand again. Hard to believe such a simple thing could be so intimate, but it was. It was spiritual.
No
I continue to experience a chronic illness and also watched as my uncle died. I see my parents' health continue to decline and I see my aunt's mind succumb to dementia. These experiences has spurred a need to feel a connection to something bigger than myself.
Nothing comes to mind and it's sad.
the most spiritual experience was the not-a-surprise fact of my mother's passing... an event i had been planning for over several years (taking over her health care, household, finances, estate). it was inevitable, of course, because of her steep decline, yet it felt sudden and unreal somehow. she had been periodically delirious and asking to see her parents and our deceased younger sister, but seemed unprepared (spiritually) and unwilling to let go of this life in order to do so. i truly thought she would hang on for a few months, if not years. a friend's mother passed at age 106, so i guess i was steeling myself for a long haul.
I think I've spent a lot of time this year learning about how much *work* religion can be. Working in the Jewish community can take some of the romance out of religion. Which can be good and bad. It humanizes religion. But also makes it so much more tiring.
My family and I attended Friday night services at the nation's oldest continuous congregation in Charleston, South Carolina. It was a Kabbalat Shabbat, so we didn't take out the Torah and it wasn't a long service. but it was amazing to be in such a old, historic place. We also took a tour and heard the history of the congregation. We went with friends who are part of the congregation. It was a lovely, memorable experience.
I just returned a few days ago from a trip to Yellowstone National Park with my husband Ed and some of my siblings. The beauty of the natural landscape of our country always touches me spiritually and reminds me of how lucky I am to live in the beautiful country where I was born. God's divine creation of this universe, planet, continent and country is more amazing every time I visit an amazing place like Yellowstone. The views of the mountain ranges were stunning and the eruption of the geysers and the bubbling cauldrons in the earth reminded me once again how marvelous God is.
While I really think of experiences as "spiritual", I have found myself thinking/speaking of my/our lives as "blessed" during this past year. We are most fortunate and for that I am certainly grateful!
I am adopted. My adopted family followed the Lutheran faith. There was no information regarding my family of birth. So I joined Ancestry & researched. During this research, I converted to Judaism. The mikvah experience was like "coming home." This year, I decided to attempt an older adult bat mitzvah. I'll begin studying in Oct., 2017 in hopes of completing in spring 2018.
Yes, I was teaching meditation, and the class usually sat on the Bima. This day, we had permission to open the Arc so we were sitting in front of all the Torah's. I felt the energy coming out of the Aharon Kodesh, and had the image of the High Priest entering the Holy of Holies on Yom Kippur. The energy both pulled me into it and filled me. Afterward, the class talked some about their experience. I couldn't speak.....I had unshed tears in my eyes and spent the rest of the day vibrating. It was extraordinary. Suzanne
Once again, I think this response is going to mirror my answers from previous years. I am not a traditionally "religious"person. When I think spiritual, I think of the beauty of nature, and/or of the comfort and enjoyment of being with good friends and family members. This summer, we took a trip to Albania and Greece with my sister and brother-in-law. In Albania, one of the places we stayed was a hotel/camp up in the mountains (it had once been a retreat camp for the communist elite). It was a lovely, forested area, and there was a group of reindeer staying right outside our room, on the grounds. Beautiful! We took a one week catamaran cruise on the Ionian sea, stopping at island coves and beaches only accessible from the water. Unbelievable beauty every day, on the water and at the islands. And it is always wonderful to spend time with my sister, as we don't get to see one another often enough.
Not really. But this whole year has had a background feeling of a major transition, of another life beginning. Getting used to being a homeowner, a landlord, "real" married, and of course anticipating the whole parent thing. Learning to co-exist with my partner, sometimes frustrating but optimistic overall as we learn each other and learn to accommodate each other's differences. None of this is remotely cultural, artistic, cultural, or so forth, but it's emotional to a level and in a way that is rare in my life but ubiquitous to this year.
I'd say my spiritual highlights are when my mind is completely still and I feel present and aware of all around me - often that is sitting on the couch and staring at the trees.
I haven't had particularly spiritual experiences, no. This makes me think about how this dimension is missing from my life right now.
My most spiritual moments this year have come in nature - turns out national parks are kind of the best! - and at protests. The two seem like polar opposites, but both remind me of how tiny I am and how much a part of something huge, something worth fighting for.
I think the past summer was a spiritual experience for me as a whole, because I spent most of my time alone. Between traveling by myself and being able to drive, I went from being surrounded by people and constantly absorbed in school work to having opportunities to reflect alone at every turn... and I loved it. Moments that stood out as "spiritual" to me would be seeing the fireworks on the 4th of July up and down the beach in Grayton Beach, Florida, and seeing them prior in the summer at Camp Jenny holding hands with my campers. Spirituality comes to me in the most important moments (like seeing my first traveling Broadway Show-Wicked) and in the smallest ones, when I take the time to feel the presence of a higher being.
I think the election of 45 truly changed me. At first I was simply shocked that, like everyone else, I'd predicted the results so dramatically incorrectly. Then I was depressed...and scared...for myself as a woman and as a Jew, for my gay friends, for my black friends, for my Lebanese boss and his Muslim Palestinian-American boss, and basically for everyone who wasn't a straight white male in this country. 45 made no secret of his disrespect for human decency and hatred toward women, POC, and anyone else considered "other." And his rhetoric made white-supremists feel empowered to blatantly show and act on their racism. Finally I decided it was time to show this country who I am an that I stand by my fellow Americans in their right (and fight) for equality. Who knew I'd be a such a prolific protester? The Women's March, the first of these protests, was in itself an incredibly spiritual and moving day. I will never forget the sense of unity I felt that day.
Never spiritual. Line dancing is my pleasure in life, hiking with beautiful views is, too. Not spiritual, but a aha moment. I have regretted that I've never been loved (other than by parents) but what I now realize I need more than that is to have someone (even and probably mostly a pet) for me to love and care for. I've never been cared for or loved so I can't really miss it but when Max is gone I won't have anything needing me. Nothing for me to love. As much as I don't want a pet so I can start traveling, I think I am going to have to get one.
read a book about witchcraft, the ancient spiritual religion of pre-christian Europe; what it really entails and how it's lived on to this day. very interesting, and affirming energy theory!
Spending time practicing meditation, quigong and learning a little about Buddhism. Also spending quiet time just being silent and reflective. Spending time in nature and noticing the seasons changes with all senses. I have spent some time exploring my Jewish roots, reciting Jewish prayers and lighting candles. I like this new way of exploring life and wisdom.
YES!!! I fell in love with the Earth this year; ever since I moved to the Ranch, I have been overwhelmed with feelings and connections to this land. The land outside our home is amazing, and the view from the patio, looking over the Gallatin Valley, just knocks me out. Being in Seminary also has helped me deepen my relationship with the Force.
I've been receiving and reading a daily meditation essay from Fr. Richard Rohr of the Center for Action and Contemplation. Some of his writings speak more to me that others, but boy oh boy, when they hit home they pierce my heart. I've also been part of a very unique Bible study, learning about the history and circumstances of the people who wrote the Bible, why they wrote what they did and what it meant to their historical audiences. Mind boggling and sometimes so different from what we interpreted thru the ages. In some ways, I am sad that I'm discovering so much later in my life...but of course very grateful that I'm being exposed to it at all.
While I am “on the road” lot of inner work is taking place.I am encouraged to watch myself more closely. And so I am detecting some sloppy and biased thinking. The environment while being alone and outside allows me to kindly criticize myself. There is another inner movement taking place. I sort of split myself up in 2 persons: me back again as child and me as this child’s mother. And so I kind of relive childhood but this time with a calm, benevolent mother. This is a healing process for which I am very grateful.
Again, there's been no real moment of clarity or transformation, necessarily. But I've come to recognize a wealth of ways in which I can improve myself, and I've come to identify the many ways that doing so can benefit myself and others. It's a continuing process, and it's been a good one.
I'm involved in my Jewish community
The most uplifting event was the Women's March in January. So many of us coming together to make our voices heard. Unfortunately it's been all downhill after that.
Max' Bar Mitzvah
Yes, yesterday I went to the library with my husband and he said he felt closer to me than anyone in the world. We had dinner together in the city.
No, i can't say that I have.
Though not officially "spiritual" per se, our 50th wedding anniversary party came pretty damn close! Everything I love about living--family, friends, food, wine, music...all the joy of being alive and surrounded by love. That's spiritual in my book-of-life!
For me, going to Israel was a spiritual experience. It was so amazing to truly immerse myself in the culture of Israel.
Spirituality, for me, is the feeling that eminates from deep within the darkest corners of your being, guiding your mind and heart in a direction of openness and strength that you never before though you were capable of creating. And this past year, as I sat across from a therapist named Abby, as I believed I was broken and worthless and flawed and chronic and empty and most of all incapable of being alive, I had this feeling. Coming from the depths of a place I never knew I held within me, a warmth screaming NO. NO, PLEASE DON'T LET ME DIE. NO, PLEASE DON'T GIVE UP ON ME. NO, PLEASE DON'T LET ME GIVE UP ON MYSELF. NO. ALL I WANT IS TO BE ALIVE. ALL I WANT IS TO BE FILLED WITH LIGHT. So, I cried. I cried harder than I have ever cried. I sobbed and I heaved and I became raw and I lived.
"putting my dog to sleep" was a spiritual experience; I am glad he did not have to suffer
I have had many spiritual experiences this year - mostly moments in nature with Laurie and Solly or while praying in Makom Shalom at Tawonga - when I've felt connected to the past, present and future - when I feel big and small simultaneously, when I feel connected to the awesome bigness of it all - and in those moments I know that we are dancing on the surface of a planet that is dancing in space and we are all together in a story that is unfolding - and lucky us, we get to be here for this glorious moment.
I wish.
Once again...as short as my time was there..I felt so cocooned, wrapped, comfortable, safe at the Mishkan service. When I'm there I give myself permission to struggle with who/what God looks like and how to connect with him/her/it. Often I feel guilty about my faith, or lack, or how unsure I am about where my faith path goes. But that all seems OK at Mishkan. My daughter decided in the last few months (although I believe her journey was much longer) to become a Messianic Jew. I thought it would really hurt a lot more than it did. Instead, I've felt this quiet acceptance of her journey...maybe because mine has been so unsure.
Finding a safe community and job after deciding to leave a 'war zone' of a school. Reuniting with my guru, taking a pilgrimage to see her and remembering the power of practices and higher consciousness.
This year, I cried nearly every time I attended church. I kept 2 stones from a service in which we exchanged stories from our family history. I shared how I carry with me the stain of my great uncle. He was a leader in the local KKK, that I know for a fact exacted "justice" on a black man who they believed raped a white woman. It gives me chills even today. So, as I walk this world, I'm trying every day to do one thing. Just one thing that can show the love of Christ. Because the world is not fair to those of color. And every single day, it gets worse lately.
Yes I started a meditation with oprah an chopra An a spiritual journey
I feel like I come across and interfaced with people who have shown me how precious life is, either through losing theirs, through being loving and caring or through showing me what happens to the body when you do take care of it. I feel like my soul has screamed out to me to take responsibility for myself, and to inspire the world toward health, love and care. xo
Global warming and crazy political leaders might make finding a new world more urgent within my lifetime. Been thinking about: Is apocolyptic literature useful in working out what that means?
I think that you could say that I was and am in the middle of a spiritual change. I'm learning to let go. Learning to understand what it feels like to relax, learning that it is ok not to always be "on", or working. The process is slow and frightening....and liberating at the same time.
I think I definitely had some spiritual experiences at camp this summer. Particularly during services at the teatron and the josh Nelson service. Those were all really special experiences and when I close my eyes at services now I always picture myself back there looking out at the lake.
Getting to know Charlie during the time that I was off of work was a bit spiritual for me as I had not spent any of our previous relationship time able to move about but off of work. It was interesting to see the roles that we fell into and how I coped with the time off. Charlie was extremely supportive as I found my way with learning how to fill up time, something that I don't feel that I am usually very good at. Needless to say, although I think that it was good for me to learn how to take time to slow down, it didn't always feel that good and I was really glad to get back to work and feel like I had some projects to work on. I think I could only be unemployed happily if I was really wealthy so that I had enough money to be able to devote time to helping others as that it what I gravitated towards during my time off. I served at LINK and helped organize a peer support movement in Lawrence and these things are all important to me.
I've had a few very spiritual experiences this year, as if something in me has re-awakened. Most recently, I was at a theme park in Williamsburg, VA with my wife, sister, and sister's boyfriend waiting in line for some food at the end of the night. A boy of about 10 asked me if the boy with me was my son. My wife had just walked away to use the restroom, so I thought I misheard him and thought he was talking about her. I ignored him, but he asked me again. I said, "No, that's my wife", and I thought he was a bit strange in the way he was staring in my direction. We got back to the hotel that night, and my wife and I went in to take a shower together. When we exited the bathroom, we noticed that the trash can had been moved to the middle of the floor - neither one of us had moved it. We both remarked that it was odd, and put the can back. After about 10 minutes of snuggling in bed, I felt someone sit up against my side on the bed, and I said something aloud like "Ok, just don't do anything too intrusive here". The sensation stopped soon after, and we went to sleep. Sometime around 3AM or so, I felt that someone was lying down next to me in the bed on my right side, and I thought that maybe my wife had decided to switch sides for some reason. I shut my eyes to go back to sleep, but after barely a minute I thought maybe that isn't her. I still felt as if someone was next to me, so I swung my arm over to my left side where my wife actually was to make sure she was there. Sure enough, she was on my left. This woke her up and made me laugh, and at this point things got back to "normal" with no "presence" there. My wife is all very sensitive to these things, but she did not feel anything. Not sure what that was all about, but it sure was interesting! Other coincidental things have happened throughout the year, and I feel very lucky to experience these things.
Full Moon through my new apartment window on first night sleeping there, remembering Japanese poem: I see the moon so clearly now that My storage shed burned down... and sharing it in Quaker meeting with the man who first shared it with me (who is only there infrequently--so a miraculous synchrony). My son instantly and miraculously spotting a mezuzah made from wood of the olive tree (which translates from his and my late husband's last name 'Ohlbaum') for my new apartment on our only opportunity to select one together. ALL MUSIC lifts me up!! There are more...not enough time right now...
I had one recently - I recognized that I was chasing pleasure rather than happiness or joy. I was getting sucked into the materialism of our culture. It's re-opened my eyes, and I see how NOT detached I am, despite what I would like. I see what I need to work on.
The most intense spiritual experience I had last year happened at the end of Neilah, standing in front of the open ark by myself, feeling like it was my last chance to plead with God. It was the antithesis of just going through the motions. It felt more real and connected spiritually than anything I had previously encountered or done.
No. I do pray but I have not had anything that I'd call a spiritual experience.
During an outdoor Shabbat service in August, I had a spiritual experience as the dusk became evening and I chanted prayers in harmony with other attendees. A feeling of complete peacefulness came over me as I looked up at the stars and felt a cool breeze brush against my shoulders.
I had a baby. That is the most spiritual experience I have ever had. Becoming a mother has changed my life in so many ways.
I read the book, Braiding Sweetgrass" and it struck me that humans are not the bane of existence. We are capable of doing great harm but the things we do also fill a necessary duty in the "Interdependent Web". I just try to be mindful of whether my actions are a positive contribution or harmful to the mix.
I went to a sweat lodge and there were about 25 men inside chanting and praying. It is difficult to describe the level of energy. It was extremely spiritual.
In February, I started to have a lot of deep thoughts about relationships (fueled by potent edibles) and I realized that I don't really want or need one. Anything I could get out of relationships, I already get from my friendships. This made me appreciate the women I call my support system a lot more and also helped me understand my own desire for independence.
Because this has been an especially challenging year to watch the news, I've tried to find small ways to realistically make a difference in my little corner of the world. One of these quests was especially spiritual fur me- welcoming our Latina neighbors back to public school. ICE raids had started in Memphis, and parents were afraid to take their children to school. Helping others simply to feel safe in their own home community is meaningful to me. Caring for our neighbors has become a spiritual experience.
Yes. I have deepened my Love for Life. I hear the ugly voice in my head that gets impatient and annoyed. I know it's not me. That's a voice from history. I'm letting it go.
I thought I understood the High Holy Days. I thought I understood the idea of group repentance and striving as a group to do better. I know that all of us are mortal, and eventually something bad will happen to all of us. But this year, as the Book of Life does not appear to include the one I love most dearly, and my own life as I know it is ending even if I will live on, it is hard to approach the holidays globally. I have a picture in my head I can't erase of the Book of Life closing without Doug's name in it, and I want to scream "Wait! That's wrong! That's not fair! He's good!" And then pain sears through my heart like nothing I've ever imagined.
I'm feeling so extremely grounded right now that I am having a hard time calling up any spiritual experiences this last year. Last year, I said that making love with my sweetheart was intensely spiritual at times and that is still true. Sometimes, just standing next to him, with my arm through his, I feel such love that that is spiritual for me. Dancing with my sister at our cousin's wedding this summer. Swimming in the warm ocean in Hana Town this spring.
No. I don't identify as a spiritual person. Closest is experiencing the polar night in Svalbard. It was incredible and awe-inspiring. But oh so earthly. Which makes it all the more powerful. The eclipse also struck me, even though I wasn't in the path of totality.
I had an amazing davening experience this past year at IC Dallas during Shabbat. I've always looked forward to that Shabbat, but it was very special this past year to be celebrating Shabbat with people of a similar approach to faith from around the world. It made me realize that even though Judaism isn't a largely practiced religion, it is a family that looks out for each other and has shared customs across cultural and linguistic borders.
The first one that comes to mind is witnessing the total eclipse. I can't describe the sense of wonder and awe that I felt during those short minutes, but it gave me such a feeling of peace and an appreciation for this wonderful world that God has given us.
What could be more spiritual than the birth of new life than the birth of two perfect new lives- my grandsons. God reminded me how close he is to us when I look at their gorgeous faces! These two were especially important, because they were born with an egg donor and a gestational carrier to my wonderful son, Todd and his loving husband, Casey! Spirituallity is best felt in the early morning hours, when you are talking to Jack or Andrew and they look at you and suddenly smile at you with a smile that lights up the world! Thank you, God-I could never show my gratitude enough!
I have realized the impact that communing with nature has on my psyche and emotional well-being. When I take the time to be in nature, I am much more centred, happy, and present with my family. It matters little what kind of experience with nature, but anything that gets me that fresh air and the sounds, sights and smells of the natural world.
All my life is a spiritual experience and the more I am aware of that, the better I feel and the more ME I am and the more peaceful I go about my life. God is great, God is in all of us.
The joy of being part of the Scheidt Seminar for temple presidents.
The closest thing to a spiritual event was a posting on Facebook by Amber, the daughter of my Dad's favorite nurse. She adored Daddy, and after he died Tammy gave her daughter a plant Daddy had given her, knowing how broken-hearted Amber was that Daddy was gone. I hadn't heard of this before. Amber posted a picture of this plant on the 2-year anniversary of Daddy's death. The plant was growing and thriving, which Amber believed was a sign that Daddy was still with us, that it was growing with her thanks to him. (She said all her other plants weren't lasting more than 2 months.) It gave me comfort to think that this could be true, and that he had been such a force that he meant so much to her & others, as well.
The first thing that comes to mind is the time we spent at Kelly and Helene's house on the water in Nova Scotia. The peacefulness, the water, the fog, the birds. The other thought is some moments around Stella's passing. How she became less and less present. And then at the funeral there were these wonderful pictures of her and her family. I had a moment of picturing her and Louis being reunited in heaven. And, I wish I had more spiritual experiences I could remember. How do I want to have more of that in the coming year?
No. If anything, the gulf between me and any spiritual belief has widened. I have less and less hope any benign, divine presence is out there.
It was extremely spiritual to go to Israel. Seeing Jerusalem for the first time, after Shimmy's speech about how our ancestors have waited for thousands of years to finally be back in Jerusalem was one of the most powerful moments of my life.
My growing confidence to share my voice with my Jewish community - it's exactly like Marsha said, I'm pretty consistently able to sing without fear now, and take messing up a lot better than I used to. I'm happy to make space for other people to sing, too, which has been a really good growth spot. Going to camp: sunsets, Shabbats, really good prayer services, etc. Spending time at Emanu-el, with my kids, mentors, at services, Taslich on Baker Beach this year, and time with the people I love, time in nature, etc.
No. Nothing this yera.
Nah I wouldn't say so
No
One experience is seeing the city of Tzapoi. This made me thing of the fact that I'm apart of a religion and a people who defined the odds. That drew me closer to my faith because the jewish people are an act of g-d.
I have had a few spiritual experiences this year. First, I saw "Guernica" by Picasso and it affected me very strongly. The pain and suffering he depicted literally weighed heavy on my heart; I thought I was being smothered. I also was uplifted, as I always am, by "my" beach scene. The salt air, the blue water, the warm sun and the soft, white sand, brings me peace and solace and reminds me that God was in this place.
Scuba diving has been pretty spiritual for me. Entering another realm, so far under the air which I need to survive...I locked eyes with a shark while hovering over a shipwreck where lives were lost long ago. It's indescribable how profound of a moment that, and so many other underwater experiences, are.
Don't think so :-(
During Hillel NPI, we had the opportunity to create art while fasting on Tisha B'Av. This was a very spiritual experience for me because I felt as if all my defenses were down, and I just created what I was feeling.
If you count the "fire" that destroyed my son's apartment as "spiritual," I would say that was it. As described earlier, we moved my son home after an unsuccessful stint in college and trying to live on his own in Florida. However, we did not know what to do with his apartment, which was leased until August 2017, or his furniture, which we did not need. Two days before was to go back to Florida, say his goodbyes and pack, his roommate's father called to say his apartment, and all of its contents, was ruined by the water damage from fighting a fire in an apartment above his. This resolved all of our problems - he was able to break his lease, the ruined belongings were scrapped and his renters' insurance paid for everything! To this day I believe the "spirits" of my and my wife's grandparents helped arrange this.
jewish renewal stuff romemu 42 journeys - what r mine and time for next
Visiting the Western Wall was something vastly spiritual for me this year. While I had been to the Western Wall before, I seem to have found a deeper and more meaningful connection to my Judaism these past few years. I can definitely thank Hillel for that, who helped me recognize that Judaism can be more than religious, it can be spiritual and cultural and ritualistic and still be Judaism. By being at the Western Wall, I felt I was able to acknowledge that my recognition of my religion has changed but I'm still strong in my beliefs and faith.
Opening myself up to myself, not just with therapy but with yoga and stretching and quiet moments of contemplation. Being more honest and real with myself. It's a hard experience. I don't know how it will affect me in the future but right now, it makes me feel both more and less sane. More and less in control.
I continue to be moved to tears often when I see parents and there young children interacting with unrestricted, mutual love. Each time, I'm reminded that it is imperative to work towards making the world a better place. Can I do more? Undoubtedly. But I reflect on what I contribute to the future and at least acknowledge that I am not a passive observer. Additionally, I often feel the Shekinah when I'm walking in the woods under a thick canopy of trees; whether the branches are winter-nude, displaying the verdancy of mid-spring or prismatic hues of the autumn season. Being in nature always helps me to adjust my perspective; recognizing that today's challenges are truly ephemeral.
When I am at Mishkan, immersed in song and prayer and contemplation, that is the closest I get to my true spiritual self. Things bubble up, I am transported, I feel the presence of G-d. I think.
At the end of the summer we traveled to North Carolina to see the total solar eclipse. During the week before there was a lot of turmoil in the country, with white supremacists and neo-Nazis marching in the Virginia chanting hateful slogans, and threats to Jews and many others all over the country. My son had been camping in the remote wilderness and my daughter had been away at a Jewish camp during that week. Even though there was no direct threat to her camp, as the week went on I became increasingly anxious and ready to pick her up. The final day of camp was the day before the eclipse. We had already picked my son up from his camping trip and our plan was to pick my daughter up at camp and then head directly to North Carolina where we would meet friends in the morning and drive and hike to a remote place to watch the eclipse. When the day arrived, I was thrilled to pick up my daughter, glad that all campers and staff were safe and happy, and we embarked upon our long drive from NY, through NJ, PA, WV, MD, VA, TN and then into western NC-- about 14 hours in the car total with very few stops. I was so glad to have both of my children with me safely that, although they were restless at times, the long drive did not bother me. We arrived in NC late at night. The next morning the skies were clear and we were thrilled by our luck. The eclipse was going to be awesome. We met up with our friends and drove to the Picken's Nose trailhead, where we quickly realized that this remote location was no secret-- there were already people there to view the eclipse and the ledge looking over the valley at "the nose" was nearly standing room only, and this was about 4 hours before the eclipse was to start. But we managed to find a spot among the gathering crowd and waited. We were up high overlooking a valley where we could see for miles into what we were told was Georgia. As we waited we could see off to the west that a group of clouds was gathering. They were slowly drifting in our direction, but the word among our crowd was not to worry-- this was common and the clouds never stuck around. Around 1 PM we could see the start of the eclipse. It looked like the moon had taken a small bit out of the sun. It was incredible. However, within about half an hour the clouds drifted in and covered the sun. We could still occasionally see the Sun peering through the clouds, but we were mostly not able to see the Sun at all. It also began to look like there were huge amounts of clouds further west. Would we have driven all this way and not be able to see totality? As we stood there at the top of this ledge, looking over the valley, we exchanged some worried glances with our friends, and many around us began to give up hope, thinking that there would be no way we would see totality. I kept thinking, "well, all is not lost. I have my family with me, and we'll be able to see the moon's shadow move across the valley." At one point, a group of us decided that maybe we were close enough to the clouds we could blow them away. This was a joke, of course, but we were desperate to try anything. Oh well, I thought, we tried. That's gotta be worth something. The skies slowly began to grow darker from the eclipse, and at one point the crowd cheered briefly as the Sun poked it's head out from behind the clouds. But that was short lived. There really was no chance of seeing totality-- there were just too many clouds-- or so we thought. Then, at just mere seconds before totality, as darkness truly descended upon us and the valley below, the clouds literally parted, making way for us to view the Sun. It was incredible-- we were seeing totality, and it was only possible because the clouds moved out of the way. It was truly an amazing site. We could see the corona around the Sun through our binoculars. Everyone around us was cheering, all were screaming "wow!" or "Oh my God!" or "This is so incredible!" No one could help themselves, it was that incredible. The Sun was behind the moon. Then, once totality had passed and the light re-emerged, I realized that it was a bright and sunny day. All those clouds to our west that had yet to pass over us were nowhere to be seen. It was the strangest thing. In just 2 and a half minutes-- the exact 2 and a half minutes we needed-- the clouds had literally disappeared. We had witnessed a true miracle. When in fact there was no hope, we found that really there was, and all was how we had hoped it would be and more. As I thought more about this I realized that there may be a lesson in this-- we were ending a week when I was terrified for my children, my friends, our country. There was so much craziness in the world around us, with real and unprecedented (in my liftetime in this country) reasons to be so terrified. But, maybe when it seems like there's no hope, there might be. I began to realize that there is hope in the masses of people around me and in the country who do not think the same way as our President or the neo-Nazis. There are many people who are fighting for the rights of all people, and we cannot allow displaced anger to win out over those who want to see a better world for all of us. There is always hope and we need to make sure we do not lose sight of it. We can find the sun when we look for it.
oh dear, I can't think of any. Sad, right? No new babies in my life, no artistic breakthroughs. Don't get me wrong, I'm happy for what I have & would like nothing more than for my life to roll along as it has been. But I would also like to go somewhere amazing & new, or be blown away somehow somewhere.
A couple weekends ago, I spent the weekend with Justin's mom, and on the way back, I took the highway along the coast and stopped at Rocky Neck Beach. It's fall, but it was warm that day, and I just took Justin's big shirt that I had for pajamas and my bra and underwear and waded my way into the cold ocean. I spent hours on the rocks, looking at little crabs and fishes and critters, and just as I was thinking about leaving, some bigger waves started coming in, and I spent another hour just rushing at them and jumping in them and challenging the sea to bring me more. After such a stressful year in the world, it was beautiful to be in that ocean, laughing and yelling all to myself. It was foggy when I left, but once I got on the highway, it was blue skies again and I was going home to my sweetheart and my life and things were good.
I don't know if this is spiritual, but a practice I have grown to appreciate and practice is from Matt Kahn, "Whatever Arises, Love That." I think this is such an important thing to do. We have learned to deny our emotions or judge them as bad or good. Or we tell ourselves stories about that feeling. If we are going to evolve as a species, on earth, we have to be honest with ourselves and the first step is identifying and feeling the feeling. Notice, this is step one. Quoting Matt Kahn, "Once you realize that nothing will make you happy, other than realizing, how nothing can make you happy. From this space - inspiration, harmony, unity, peace, and openness can freely flow throughout your life without it being dependent on any circumstance or outcome. This is the heart of true liberation. Your fear-based emotions desire freedom desire freedom - as you do - from pain and illusion." Ironically, feeling the feelings that keep us in victimhood, fear, and pain, will be the portal to sovereignty and inner power to choose. This is what self talk looks like when we are honest about our feelings: “This isn’t what I wanted, but I know life only conspires in my highest favor to ensure my most miraculous growth.” (This one is good for the laundry) “I don’t know why this is happening but I’m sure it’s here to help me.” (This one is good for traffic) “It’s okay that I’m not getting my way. It’s okay that I feel like I can’t be happy until I have what I want.” “Maybe I’m only frustrated as a chance to love the one who is frustrated on a more unconditional level.” “No matter how my life seems or appears, I trust in the perfection of the Divine plan that in every breath reminds me that all is well.”
Spiritual, interesting word to reflect on. The thing that comes to mind is my trip to Utah for the first time. There's no question the colors and enormity of the rocks and sky and just vast landscape changed my perspective on the world. Not to mention I was very nervous that I was not outdoorsy or camper enough, but I was successful at camping and Hiking every day even in hundred degree Heat. There are parts of that that I would not choose again but I survived. I'm not sure I can quite place what it is about the rocks and the sky and the colors there, I guess part of it is that I just didn't know that that existed and so it opened my mind to what else is out there that i can't comprehend yet. And then there's something about how small I felt among vast landscape after vast landscape and the Hmong millions of years old formations that make you question if there is some kind of Grand design or designer. I don't know that I would call it a come-to-jesus moment but I'm certainly going to try to get outside more from now on.
I read Richard Dawkins the "God Delusion" and took Evolutionary Psychology as a way to challenge my beliefs and look at evidence. I had a few existential crises along the way but I still found reason and comfort in believing in a God, though now I'm less certain of who God is and what their involvement in our lives are. It reaffirmed to me that Love is the most important thing to me. Despite all these thoughts in my head Love was constant. Love in my best friend, my lover and soul bonded partner. Love is truly the purest and most beautiful thing in all of our existence.
I went to see a shamanic healer after my dad died. She helped me clear a lot of the trauma of his passing, and also clear the remaining trauma from my own childhood cancer. Going through Dad’s experience of cancer brought my own memories and grief back full force. I have felt so much lighter since the healing session. I haven’t told many people about it because words like “shamanic healing” tend to freak people out. But it was amazing and I would do it again.
There were a few shabbats I went to where I felt really spiritual afterwards. No one forced me to go. I wanted to. I think it helped me continue to connect with my Judaism through college, which can be a difficult time to remain connected to any religion
No
Once when I was listening to Hosanna from Jesus Christ Superstar I think I had a spiritual experience It didn't really affect me after the song was over but it was fun I guess
Ephesians 2:10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. This verse has come to life for me. My childhood was not of Christian life but of drunkenness and beatings. Not of abundance but of being poor white trash. I believe God has prepared me to minister to children and share the hope of Christ through the Good News Club. I have also been prepared to serve food to the homeless and show compassion and God's love. Just as Moses was prepared by God to lead the Jewish people out of Egypt by he himself spending time in the desert before his task was given to him by God.
I've started lighting Shabbat candles (almost) every week. It is a reminder that I actively need to create light with so much darkness in the world.
Just finished lunch with the moms at Quinoa. Sometimes you've got to satisfy that ceviche craving! Ive been reading a lot of CKs stuff about creating our own reality and accessing The Everspace, or just achieving full happiness and unlocking our potential. I'm going to keep working on this: Morning and night time mantra, sexual meditation, etc. Trisse is on video and answering this very same questions. I'm watching her beautiful concentrated face and her fingers going wild on the key board. Just looking at her makes my heart literally flutter and I can't believe that she loves me, I must be pretty damn awesome. I also can't believe that we've been doing this for well over a year now. I make her laugh and break her concentration (this is when you lick her face). In terms of spiritual experiences, I have not had many in the past year. Amazing, challenging, fun experiences? Many, but I wouldn't put many under the very specific and important category of spiritual. My 27th birthday could be chalked up as spiritual! It fell on a Sunday, and I had lots of friends that wanted to get down n' wild. But I didn't want to have a 2 day party bender doing the same thing I usually do on the weekends anyways, then feel terrible the actual day of my birthday. So, I signed up for a hiking and camping trip up Cerro Chipitur with a group of guys I didn't even know. I went to a Choloque party Friday night, but went home at a responsible hour to be able to wake up early Saturday. We drove out to the desert and walked to the foot of the mountain where we climbed for 5hours until we got tot he summit. The view was breathtaking, especially after the challenge. Looking down upon Trujillo made everything that happen their appear minuscule, like it didn't really matter. The ocean spread as far as the eye could see, only making you realize that we were among ancient giants. We went to bed early because there fell a darkness that I hadn't seen in a while, plus the neblina. The next morning we woke up before the sun. I made certain that I was going to be there to greet the sun the 27th time I made my way around it. The sun came up to greet me too, because the colors and feeling were spectacular. It was bigger than a NYE moment, reflecting on what had happened that 26th year of my life, embracing what was to come this 27th year. The walk down was much easier than the struggle up, mostly because our packs weighed less. I made it back to my place with a clear head, more focus, and a refreshed as ever. It was such a good experience that I will try to celebrate all of my birthdays like this from now on: confront a challenge, go on an adventure, something like that. I call it spiritual because there were no stimulants except for myself. I didn't even know the guys I went with, and didn't really make that good of friends with them anyways. This was all me, everything happened inside, between me and myself and with nature. I need to go camping more, get out into nature. Hopefully I get a job soon that allows me to do that.
Yes. I've continued down my path, becoming a more faithful and conscientious Jew. This has improved my outlook on life.
No spiritual experiences in the narrow sense. In the broader sense, the experience of looking into my childrens' eyes and seeing comprehending, self-aware, independent people, separate souls, looking back at me.
My trip to Colombia was spiritual in some ways. It made me recognize the importance of travel and cherish my solo-time for knowing who I am and what is important to me.
Again, I have to say "no, not really". I suppose it could be due to how I define "spiritual". I need to feel moved, and even though I've had some major life changes this year (kids moving out, my dad passing away), I don't feel like I've connected with anything "spiritual". I haven't seen enough art, read enough books or traveled enough this year to even be exposed to anything that I could find moving. Hmmm...two years in a row of no spiritual experiences. Maybe next year I'll have something to report. I should work on it.
No spiritual experiences because I am not actively engaged in my religion, nor am I particularly spiritual. I'd like to believe in karma, but clearly it's something that works more in the breach rather than as much as I'd like.
my participation in kivvun, in ijs, continues to have a lasting spritual impact on me on an every day basis, sometimes profund, sometimes "just there"
I think it may be the same international day. I was happy with my students. I had great performers it was better than last years.
nope
In finding this house, it was as if all the doors simply swung open. There was no cosmic push back - the doors flew open, from the instant we walked into the house, to the synchronicity with Aricia and Pete, thru to the job I have and how I qualify for the mortgage It was Spirit's Grace in full view
I'm about to have a particular spiritual experience! Going to the Baltics with Viva La Musica (and Tim, and Pam and Ed) to sing glorious music in beautiful places that resonate with my ancestral history. I think our main piece, Dan Forrest's Jubilate Deo, is going to become a favorite of mine as did Faure's Requiem and Mahler's Second (and Eric Whitaker's Lux, which I have never performed, but love). I remember my experience singing at Teton Village in Jackson Hole in 2011. I knew then and know now that it was my penultimate experience as a chorister, even more so than singing with the San Francisco Symphony Chorus in my twenties (I was not developed enough as a person to appreciate my good fortune then). But this experience in the Baltics might very well prove to be a worthy Second Wave to my one summer week singing under Maestro Donald Runnicles in the Tetons. Of course, these experiences I talk about are the most luminous of my life, the most beyond words. There is shimmery but transparent cloud that hovers just outside my heart, throat and head when I think of them, and when I am in the moment with them.
We actually had a negative spiritual experience a few weeks ago. I've really never had a truly bad experience going to Church, but a few weeks ago we were treated with such rudeness and condescension by these old ladies who told us we sat in "their" pew. It just really bothered me because people are always saying that young people don't go to church, and how can we bring young people in. Well, that is not the way to do it. It made us feel so un-welcome, and if that was our first time there, it would not make me want to go back. In fact, we haven't been back since then, but just because we have been out of town or busy. I feel nervous for when we do go back and have to potentially see them and feel that same shame all over again.
Being in shul on 1st day Rosh Hashana I felt so connected and at home on the day and with IKAR -- so attuned to the vibe and the values. I remember before we used to go to IKAR: the holidays were a time of alienation. Now they are a time of belonging. What a gift!
I think in a way this was a spiritual year for me because of my art therapy program. I learned A LOT about myself. I felt extremely satisfied about finding some kind of calling. I did art almost every day ( I hope I can find a way to continue doing art this year- like a journal where I draw every day).
Music moves me spiritually all the time. I am amazed at how it touches me. Sometimes it takes me by surprise in fact. Also nature, being in it is essential to my spiritual well being.
When I was temping at Adrianna Papell, a dream job at a dream company, I was still feeling angry about being laid off in such an abrupt way. My supervisor talked about her room mate a lot, so I asked her how they met. She went on to talk about how they became youth group leaders at a non-denominational Christian church, and the future room mate had a horrible year, including getting laid off from her job and her parents dying, but instead of stewing in her anger, she put her faith in God, created a new portfolio, and found a great new job. For whatever reason, that story helped me let go of a lot of my anger and a month later I was hired for a full time job.
I changed jobs, joining a much more regimented, overhead filled and therefore challenging (read frustrating, if not infuriating) environment. I picked a few people with whom I seemed to have a report and asked for feedback as they felt it was necessary (both positive and negative, but hopefully all constructive) and got to see how those who managed to live in this environment saw me. This feedback included things a new about myself, but was able to better contain in a more friendly, productive environment and some of it was new. I have attempted to integrate this feedback into how I identify automatic response triggers and find ways to pull myself back to the fore before the reptilian brain takes over.
Perhaps it is the discovery that my live streamed online services have reached so many people in so many different parts of the world, that there is a need for spirituality, no matter the religion or sect, and that I seem to have tapped into it. The best part is that not only have these diverse people from everywhere have not just watched my services once, but they have returned again and again.
My wife, Lisa, was named chair of the synagogue membership committee. By extension, that moves both of us much closer to the "inner circle." I have never been part of the inner circle of any group. This is a sea change in my life. It is exciting to be accepted in such a way.
Studying mussar has made me reflect upon living a healthier, more moral and ethical life.
I had a chance to get involved in Camp Quest NW, and got to find my place in a secular, critical-thinking community. I had an incredible time being around amazing atheist/humanist young people, many of whom only get this respite to truly be themselves, non-religious, or gender queer. The experience changed me fundamentally, and gave me a community to join and to to contribute to as long as I'm able.
Not really spiritual in the means that I would typically think Spiritual But it has been a very "moving" year with my oldest son getting ready to go to college. Being that it is his senior year & spending some really good one on one time with him during our college visits. Seeing a glimpse of the man he may become. It has made me very reflective on have I done everything for him to set him up for success? what could I have done differently? What could I have done more of? less of? exposed him to? etc.
Yes. I have restarted my daily meditation practice and felt a shift in my perception to one where I am less me and more part of something bigger.
No.
I actually haven't. Its been one of those years were things didn't move much...life didn't change much...but I felt safe.
YES! The Israel Pilgrimage was filled with spiritual experiences, most notably the cave where I heard my soul whisper to me, “Hineini! Here I am!” with the message being, “You’ve been living a spiritual life, meditating, helping others, Mussar, etc, but you’ve not been really following ME. Get in touch with me and listen to what I’m saying.” I’ve been trying to do that ever since that trip (5/17) along with chanting, kind eyes, kind ears, kind heart and staying soft.
Yes, when I started to look more into what the signs were they lead me to meet the most remarkable women who basically saved my life. I have now began to really look for spiritual signs in my life and to pay close attention to what is being offered.
I was ordained on June 4 of this year. The reality is slowly seeping in. It is an ongoing transformation. There are times that the awareness of this role encourages me to do more. I am slowly getting used to seeing myself as a leader. Checking myself, my ego and Reality. Now, even more, feeling that my words matter.
Yes. I got my dream job and I couldn't believe it. I thought I was the luckiest person alive. It was a true dream come true. Swiftly two very toxic people were placed in my path and to stay in integrity meant not supporting their hateful and toxic behaivor. I ended up losing my job as one of them took credit for my work and saying bad things about me to my manager. He did this to our partner as well. He would do things like wait till he had been drinking, maybe a little to much because we were having a staff night, then take him to a party our clients were having and the very next day report him to our manager. Just really mean type of things all the time. This was a spiritual experience for me because I felt like I had my spirit stolen for me. By the end of this I was raw, heartbroken, exhausted, and just so sad to see evil people win. It really made me lose a bit of faith in humanity. He got caught doing the same thing quite soon after we were gone, but he didn't really have to deal with any consequences except looking like a liar and creep, willing to ruin peoples lives because he just feels like it. It took a long time to heal, and to see the beauty in the situation, and that I was now in a place in life where I wasn't going to change myself for bullies even if it meant saying goodbye (temporary to a dream). Now it has been many months and I have tripled my income, have bosses that see potential in me and raise me up instead of putting me down. I realize now I can live the same dream life, but on my own terms. This was the biggest spiritual experience of the past year. To know I am strong enough to go from feeling broken to thriving like never before. Happiness is not in a situation but inside ourselves and just because whatever you want doesn't show up the way you thought, it can still be there.
Sunrise club with amruta has been spiritual. And I think my breakdown at the beginning of August was spiritual. I realized I cannot live with myself in Fresno as I was trying to before. So I started focusing on the places where I was welcomed and could be of service. I am so thankful for the orgs and people who do. It has been so good since that night of sobbing and driving. This song helped too: Oh God, you are closer, than we are, to ourselves, draw us closer to you (repeat)
I'm not sure I had a very spiritual year. I guess the closest I've come is when out in nature - seeing those vistas and wild spaces always makes me feel calmer in myself.
Not really, I would just say I have found a great work, home life exercise balance that sees me in a happy place.
Almost the opposite. I think it's a normal response to loss, but I've been grappling with how I feel about the concept of life after death since John died. David is so irritatingly sure John is in heaven with my father, but I don't know if I believe that. I need some time by the ocean - that's where I feel close to spiritual. I am going to AZ in October and have a tiny cabin in the middle of nowhere to myself... maybe then.
holding my 3 day old nephew in my arms was amazing Edit: I keep feeling drawn towards Judaism - bit of a shock for a one time Catholic altar server from rural Kentucky - but I can't work up the courage to visit a community near me, speak with a rabbi, and learn more and to study and to try to figure out where these feelings are coming from and how they should guide you. Hopefully soon.
Working on Spiritual Will has been a profoundly reflective exercise. Reading and discussing the ideas of others has been so useful to help me get ideas for what I want to say.
Holding my two month old twin grandsons and knowing what a miracle it was, was deeply moving to me. All children are a gift from G-d. Knowing the complications that were involved, these two are particularly precious.
Just this week I had some that I would characterize as spiritual. I've been questioning what happens after we die a lot lately. I've had profound experiences that indicate something of us continues on but it's hard for me to let go and believe despite all of it. My husband's aunt passed unexpectedly a week ago today. We both loved her very much and are grieving. We had a number of experiences, at her house and in the car as we were there for the funeral, starting the process of closing her home, and heading back to our own home hundreds of miles away. I don't know if it was wishful thinking or genuine messages from her but they were gratefully received and warmed our hearts and made us laugh through tears.
Attending my synagogue's Martin Luther King Jr shabbat service/pulpit exchange. Standing, arms linked, with my Jewish brothers & sisters, with our brothers & sisters from a local AME Zion church, and singing "We Shall Overcome" just blocks from the White House, knowing in less than a week things would be "changed, changed utterly". Despite the fear, the uncertainty, this moment of solidarity & resistance will stay with me always.
I have have been saying more prayers throughout the day when I feel that G-d is near.
This year, I've decided to embrace the wildness that I've always been frightened of or tried to hide. I purchased a book called Women who Run with the Wolves and have learned a great deal about embracing the untamed part of my feminity (which for me is about 90% of who I am), figuring out why I am wildly attracted to the Bluebeards, finding solace in rejection and acknowledging that the definition of "family" can look very different from the one you know. In this process, I've had vivid nightmares and magical moments of intimacy in waking life. I've also had to learn to stay unattached to each moment. Acknowledging the perfection or pain, but do not become attached. All of this has been crucial to finding myself and my version of god in 2017.
Too many to enumerate, but every new awareness I open to is precious to me...
I was invited to join a women's group, called "full moon circle ". I'm not sure who requested my name be added to the email list but I am grateful. It brings me closer to other women who believe in the power of nature and who believe in something bigger than themselves. I wanted to meet other women, to increase my social circle, even though I don't see these people other than once a month it is very special to me. I shared the Joy Harjo poem and others, it helps to share special readings to others, I don't have anyone at home other than me and it gives more meaning to share. There are other women's groups/circles I want to be part of, I just don't know how to join them. Religion and spirituality make life easier to live, make burdens easier to bear. I want and need more religion.
The Eclipse. Totality. Science Rules.
I think my most spiritual experience was with ECT. The last time I went to Sibley for maintenance was a nightmare. 30 minutes of poking and podding and digging with the needle to find an IV line. They found nothing. The doctor mentioned putting in a port. It was awful. I walked out of the treatment room, with no treatment, and said to Mommy, "No more ECT!" From that point on I have been exercising three to four times a week and trying to monitor my sleep and my water intake. I am not always on top of the sleep and water, but the exercise in a non-negotiable. I am trying to take control of my mental health. It was time for me to stop looking to the doctors for all the answers and time for me to start looking to myself.
When I share time with loved ones, when I take in the beauty of a sunrise or sunset, when somehow I arrive at an epifany or situational understanding- I feel all these experiences are spiritual. Going to services, being there for my son and daughter in law for the birth of my grand daughter. These were also spiritual. Going to my nephews funeral and helping my mom ( his grandmother) through this horrible time - even that was spiritual. These experiences all help me feel closer to God.
As I said last year, I feel that I have spiritual experiences frequently. I have had a few "AHA" moments recently -- most in conjunction with my transition from my home to an apartment....a good, well thought out move, and an emotional one at this stage of the game. I am both excited and terrified! Life, right?
Becoming part of the UU Fellowship- I feel uplifted and at peace while there. I feel fulfilled being surrounded by intellectual, free thinkers who challenge themselves (and me) to walk courageously on this life path- standing for social justice, equality, protection of the planet and ALL its inhabitants
Two experiences come to mind. First, I have been meditating more at home and at work. I found that it quiets my mind and it's making me more present at attentive at work. Also, I'm having - sometimes- an easier time being present and non- reactive with my husband which is helpful in our communication. Sometimes when I meditate outside in the yard, I have had a "golden moment" when time seems to stand still and I feel the "oneness". The second is that I had a health scare in the ER where there was a (very small) chance that the procedure for my tachycardia might stop my heart. They were ready with the paddles. I took a breath and found that if this was my last moment that I was thinking, "well, if this is it, then I am thankful for my life and thankful for my family. And then I said the Shema. It brought more comfort than I expected. Maybe just that I had a structure for how to approach this terrifying moment. Gave me a what to do with my mind. I was surprised and grateful.
No. The closest thing to spiritual for me is natural beauty. I've seen some spectacular sunrises, but then I have every year.
I'm not sure I've had many spiritual experiences this year. I've been working so hard and mostly on auto pilot. Part of my goal for the new year is to be more spiritual.
Absolutely. I've been pretty lost since summer of 2014 when both my parents passed within six months of each other. I'm an only child; I was in my late 20's at the time. Queue lots of darkness and bad feelings and withdrawal amounting to essentially a pall over everything in my life. I'm working my way out of the funk, but I'm still not quite rid of it. Over the last couple of years, I've found myself experiencing something that I have experienced with just one other person in the past, approximately 10 years ago. In some ways at least, it appears that my mind and my friend's mind are linked (we often live on opposite ends of the country). I'll pick up the phone to text her, and it will buzz with a text message from her. I'll be having trouble sleeping and she'll ask me why I'm keeping her up at night. She takes care of my house when I'm gone; when I get back, I'll ask her where a thing is, and she'll suggest that I look in the first place I looked. Etc, etc, etc. She regularly asks me why it's happening, to which I have no answer. This apparent synchronicity is something I have been thinking about quite a bit and, over the summer, spent a weekend in apparent synchronicity both with the place in which I found myself and the people with whom I spent that weekend. **Being at a midnight show, lost in the crowd, and a friend walking straight up to me, telling me that she had known precisely Where To Find Me, and was there to collect me to come hang out. **Spending time with one group of friends, leaving to try to meet up with another, and running into a straggler as he was just about to leave the area to go meet up with everyone (this happened multiple times over the weekend, generally deep into the night in various places, all with the same group of people). **Getting lost, walking into a booth, and finding a yet-unmet-metaphorical-sister manning the booth; spending a few minutes with her, then leaving, only to return the next day and find she felt I'd be back, and spending the entire rest of the day with her and her family; we're still in regular contact. **Tripping harder than I have in a long time, getting lost both physically and not, wandering in circles for hours, questioning the extent of me, lying under a giant oak tree listening to the music and finding a little of myself. It's not that there's more really to say, but it's a marker on the road to being whole. Feeling the ability to connect with people, and wanting to I suppose, is part of a muscle I've been trying to exercise. Seeing that it may be working on a level that baffles me is as close to spiritual as I believe I'll ever get.
I went to Rosh Hashana services for the first time in years and while the services were fine, I didn't enjoy them as much as I enjoy Friday night services because the tunes are different. Listening to and singing with the cantors and rabbis at Central synagogue is the closest I get to pure spiritual joy.
I've felt a lot more connected to Judaism this past year, and that connection has made me feel a lot more at home. I feel that I have a sense of belonging no matter where I am, and a sense of belonging is much more powerful than people give it credit for.
I attended a Chevrah Kadisha conference and participated in a taharah for the first time.
I have conducted two Pagan rituals in the past year, both of them designed to bind or contain the harm caused by the Trump administration.
I talked with my grandmother trough a medium. That brought me so much peace to know that she is fine and is watchaing me and protecting me from bad and evil things.
In the past I have found spiritual moments in temple, in nature, in the arts. But this year, once again, I was tied to the practical, mundane and often sadness filled moments. I have hope that as my life has once again begun to move forward, I can open my heart and mind to moments of spirituality, beauty and wonder.
I actually think that sitting by the bedside of my parents individually at the time of each of their deaths was very spiritual. Our tradition talks about souls passing. I could sort of felt that – and tried very hard to sit with love and support and no fear. It was very peaceful in both cases. I sat To keep watch until they were taken to the funeral home. I am their eldest daughter and felt like it was my job – my other sisters did many other wonderful things for them but here was something Imcould do for my parents and for the whole family. Surprisingly, the room filled with spirit in both cases. I was not alone.
Seeing the little bit of the eclipse that we saw and seeing the recent damage from the hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes were definitely spiritual. of the areas effected, the length of time the forces continued to pound the areas, the strength of the offending forces, the powerlessness & strength of the people and facilities in the area, and the damage and injuries that occurred were beyond total comprehension. The eclipse was an expected and watch phenomenon resulting from the position and movement of celestial bodies. The storms and their effect were the result of atmospheric condition that were predicted and watched, but the exact locations and damage caused could not be known until they occurred. Both happened without any ability for human intervention or change. We just had to wait and see what would happen.
Hmmm...spiritual experiences? Not really? The solar eclipse had an impact on me that felt sort of spiritual, but it wasn't a huge thing. I just remember feeling that the build up to and the actual day of the eclipse felt different. I wrote a blog post about it...like all of a sudden things were kind of like they had been before this past election cycle and our current political state. It was a really good feeling that I so wish could have lasted. The eclipse itself was a bit anticlimactic, as we didn't have 100% coverage, but the feelings of hopefulness that it invoked felt a bit spiritual to me. I do find myself feeling kind of drawn to be more active in my Judaism lately, but I'm not really sure where that is coming from or where that may lead or mean.
I believe the spiritual experiences this year have been quite practical. Being in community, practicing the presence of Jesus, praying for one another, helping one another out, giving rides, gutting my house... I can't say I've done all of those for others, but they have been "done unto me." It's quite humbling to accept so much from others. Secretly loving it, trying not to feel guilty about that. lol Coming through this flood has been spiritual in that sense. ...and the rivers will not harm you at all! We did not lose any possessions except our cars. Ouch. That's bringing up spiritual issues with me. Feeling trapped. Needing prayer for the latch-key stuff. Also, feeling like I finally got up enough self-control to take care of myself. Then the hurricane took away all my willpower. I pray for more spiritual sustenance. Last year was the year of Jubilee...when all the captives are set free. Also the year of the nail 5777. This year is the year of the door 5778.
Walks on the beach and in the woods behind the Hiuse, especially in the mornings when the light is coming through the trees. The relief of Sanibel and caring for.Nature after the super developed areas of Florida. Dunham Magnus and the days of the Beattles. Cape Cod Symphony honoring JFK's 100th birthday.
On my birthday I found the magic world I'd left behind so many years ago. I left it, though, because I couldn't get a sense of whether it was safe or trustworthy. I'm still writing letters there.
I was "summoned" four times since January. That's not happened before. Probably my imagination. Each time, I went to the synagogue. I've felt the urge to go there before but, on prior occasions, it was generally enough to pull into the parking lot, the urge then dissipated. This was different. I felt compelled to walk in and "check in." It took no more than thinking, "I'm here." And, each time, that sufficed for perhaps two months. I don't know what that means but I feel as though something ominous, in fact, horrible, is impending. I keep telling myself it's just my imagination. I've never had premonitions before and I doubt I'm having them now. Even so, it's so strange. Atop that, I had a dream a few days ago, a dream in which I realized how elderly my parents are and how I too am getting pretty old. I saw, for a moment, a world without my parents. I felt scared. Something's impending this year. Something awful. I'm not superstitious, I just feel it.
A spiritual experience I had this past year was climbing the summit of the tallest mountain in Germany. This was not part of the tour by any means. I remember noticing people climbing up that didn't seem to have gear and instantly tried to figure out how I could do it too. I asked two different people to figure it out and finally found the spot. It was windy and wet and probably not the safest thing to do given my lack of gear but the adrenaline and the freeing feeling of being on that ladder and climbing, just me and my strength alone was amazing, awe inspiring, and exhilarating. I will never forget that mountain and that feeling of freedom. It is sealed into my heart.
I really do try to experience my entire life as a spiritual experience. I had some amazing connections with people and changed the script I was living my life by to try to be more conscious about the consequences of a decision. Thinking in this way makes every activity a sacred act of choosing my destiny.
You know what I was not raised in the Jewish religion but, when I go to services on occasion on a Friday night I do find I feel a sense of peace and connection that comes over me.
1. thurs mirning minyan 2. elul prep 3. ocean mikvah
I have realized how much I love being outdoors and walking. This is spiritual for me.
No mountaintops, but some of the sweet hills included exploring my Enneagram number, praying for good friends as they moved across the country, getting to know some of the women at my church better, and fasting (for some) of the Wednesdays in Lent. I hope to continue to seee more spiritual fruit from attending the discipleship class at my church over the next 6 months.and participating in the readings and discussions.
Sadly, not this year. And its something i miss.
Near death, came close to dying but didn't.
I like this question, but nothing honestly comes to mind this year and that kind of shocks me. It is a part of my life I long for and yet, I barely notice it when I'm not in crisis. I guess the good news is; I am not in crises
Unfortunately, I would have to say last year was particularly non spiritual, but I"m hoping the New Year will be better in that regard. As I am going to be doing some overseas travel, I hope at least to be able to improve my cultural self.
The closest experience that comes to mind is a weekend with Donna in New Harmony. We stayed at "The old Rooming House". We ate together, listened to a guitarist at Sarah's, walked around a bit and just relaxed. One night only. What surprised me was how relaxed I felt as we were driving out of town. It seemed as if we pass some line where the real world began, and at that time, I felt how relaxed I was feeling. It was as if nothing could upset me.
At this particular point in my life, I feel the furthest from God that I have ever felt. It is a strange feeling, and I am trying to allow the changing values and characteristics of myself now, work with a religion - a being- that I admire so deeply. This year, it has been hard to see God. To see spirituality and my dependency on it as something that can enrich my life. I've had so many doubts, so many moments full of pride and selfishness. This year has been all about me. But there's one moment that stuck out to me. My little sister is looking to get baptized and I began helping her learn about who Jesus is. Going through the motions I simply taught her about his impact, his plan for the world. I was asked to share why Jesus meant so much to me, and a feeling I had forgotten burst through my soul like a broken dam. It was a feeling of exceptional humility. As I reflected on why is cared at all I realized that, I had forgotten that my belief in a being so loving that He gave his life for me, so loving that no matter what I do I am still worth it all and more... is someone I've chosen to believe in because He gives me hope. Before this conversation I forgot that I needed to know that I am loved unconditionally, I needed to know that there is always a better tomorrow, that I am worth the sacrifice, that every person on this planet is simply that.., a person, who is deserving of as much love as me. I forgot that. I hope I don't forget it again, but I'm excited to remember once more.
The Women's march in NYC, and watching the Women's march in Washington DC and all other places.
I had a particularly spiritual Shabbat evening in Oban, Scotland. I had a busy day of arriving in Oban via hitchhiking where I didn't even know what I was doing until the last minute. I busied myself in the hostel and around town a bit, and then came time to cook dinner. I made a lovely carbonara pasta and talked to Mom via texting on whatsapp. I had a really nice Shabbat dinner talking to her. Afterwards, I read the parsha and decided it was time for a Shabbat walk. As I stepped outside on my Shabbat walk, a great calmness descended on my soul. I felt the most centered I had felt in quite a long time. I felt profoundly present, calm, and at peace with the world. I took a lovely stroll in the misting rain under my blue travel umbrella. I walked until I reached a bar with live music, listened calmly outside, and eventually decided to return home. This whole time I had the most amazing feeling of calmness. That is what I am searching for in future Shabbat evenings. If I can be that at peace with the world, it will be truly special.
I am less and less inclined to follow the flavor of organized religion that I was raised in. I have seen even more hypocrisy there than I can remember seeing in the past. This may be another biproduct of the current political mess, but it is there.
Every Al-anon meeting is a spiritual experience. Yesterday the meeting I went to was about fear and there were some gems that really sat with me. Folks talked about being able to choose between fear and love, and being unafraid to savor and appreciate the beautiful things. I reflected on the strategies I have to remember to come from a place of love and how it seems that we teach what we need to learn; so many of the things I teach my students about hope, perseverance, emotion regulation, empathy, habits of stewardship- they're all things that I benefit from practicing in my own life. I also realized that I don't rely on any one person- I have a beautiful, dynamic community and support system and when one person is not able to support me I have so many others that I can count on. I can also count on my higher power and every time I have painful feelings it's almost always my higher power tapping me on the shoulder to remind me we need to connect.
I have done some reading about a philosophical response to climate change. The science seems to indicate that the horse is out of the stall and human society is incapable of turning this around. The advice is to deep breathe, do your best, appreciate and love what is around you, and hold on to art, culture, civilization as much as we can.
I think seeing a therapist has been helpful in terms of dealing with the people ive met in DC and my family
This year I saw the first total solar eclipse in more than 30 years, and it was a special, spiritual experience. I traveled 15 hours in the car to St. Louis, MO and back to experience totality. It was a hot, clear day, and we spent most of the morning sitting at a public park. The sunlight slowly grew strange, and then dim. All of a sudden, cicadas started chirping (and my tears started flowing). Totality itself was surreal - the instant sunset, the corona's glow, the hundreds of people surrounding me, all captivated by the same miracle - and then all of a sudden the sparkly flash of sunlight bursting back from behind the moon. Just as quickly as it came, the eclipse was gone and the world was back to normal, but I wasn't the same.
I have connected with patients in a spiritual way that caused me to open my mind and eyes about God's purpose for my life.
I swam in a cave on an island off the coast of Croatia. The cave is a famous one; in fact, legend has it that it's the cave where Odysseus, the hero in Homer's Odyssey, stayed for seven years. I'm a good swimmer. My father (whose mother came to the U.S. from Croatia 110 years ago) taught me to swim in the Atlantic waters off the coast of Virginia. So swimming in tidal waters is not strange to me. But swimming in Virginia Beach is nothing like swimming in the Adriatic. It was like a dream, flying from Paris to Croatia, the land of my grandparents' birth, with a man I love deeply, and then taking a ferry from the medieval city of Dubrovnik to the island of Mljet, which means "honey." I clung to my man's back as he steered a scooter to the trailhead that leads to the cave. We hiked a couple miles through the island headland, almost like California terrain, with dusty-leaved plants and olive trees and an occasional luscious oleander blooming out of nowhere. Then suddenly the sparkling Adriatic appeared, and the rocky shoreline, like strings of turquoise and pearls flung together. We descended the rocky cliff to the jumping off place. The water was 100 feet deep, and the seas—normally as calm as glass—were heaving with the Scirocco winds blowing in from Africa. And suddenly I was paralyzed. I couldn't jump in. I exerted sheer willpower and hurled my body into the sea, and the planet responded by overloading all my senses: the salt of the Mediterranean stinging my mouth and eyes; the water heaving against the rocks booming in my ears; the water's hallucinatory azure and peacock blues blinding my eyes; the ocean itself swallowing my body. I gasped and spat salt and slowly paddled my way into the ancient cave. Finally I reached the stone beach on the other side, and I hauled my body up onto the earth again. I sat on a rock and saw that I'd gashed my knees when I'd landed: blood was running down my legs. I felt overpowered and undone, and I cried the salt that I'd eaten back out through my eyes. Finally my man arrived and asked how I was. Just the sound of his voice calmed me. I turned around and saw a woman standing on the rock, watching the sea heaving up and down. She looked as if she were daring herself to jump in. My man descended into the water and held his hand out to me, and I jumped back in and accepted his grasp. His fingers are burly, sensitive, and graceful. They're familiar to me, and I trust them. In that moment, I realized I was not alone with the world's forces and fault-lines. My fellow humans were all around me. I turned back to the woman on the rock, and she said she was afraid to jump in. I held my hand out to her, and she took the leap. As I swam back to the cliff, I remembered what my father had taught me more than 40 years ago: If you get tired or confused, turn over and float on your back. Swimming in that way, I could breathe. I could see the rocks of the cave's roof, and then the clouds. I could feel the sea not swallowing me up but holding my body on its surface. When I allowed myself to be with the rest of the people, everything changed.
Honestly? Only one - this past week, at erev Rosh Hashanah services, during the very short singing of Avinu Malkeinu (just the chorus). I was on my own, kids stayed home with David that night, and I had just gotten off the bimah after singing a particularly good "Create a Pure Heart" with our music director. For an instant, I drifted into a state of awareness of how everything is connected. It was exhilarating and exhausting - I couldn't find it again if I tried. But it was nice because I thought it was so far away from my life and experience (motherhood doesn't often leave the door open for spiritual experiences).
I think that I am constantly going through spiritual experiences, especially in this past year. I am still exploring my religion/beliefs, and I think I will continue to do so for my entire life, probably. I can hardly believe that I am living in California. I haven't really thought about it. I feel some sort of ethereal feeling every time I walk around the neighborhood. It is simply amazing how cities are set up. There are interesting shops and restaurants and people and buildings, and it's wonderful. I love experiencing new places.
Perhaps the most moving was our visit to the Dohany Synagogue in Budapest. Beautiful, sacred space, fascinating history. Sitting in the sanctuary I was overwhelmed by the possibility that I was occupying a space, breathing the air, where relatives on my mother's side might have been.
I have been paying more attention to the Sabbath as a day of quiet living
Being on sabbatical was very spiritual for me. To go to old places that once were home with new eyes, a new way of being... to remember myself - to take back my life. To make a different Labyrinth each day on the beach... it was profound. I was alone in OR. I saw Karen & John's marriage and longed for such a love in my own life. I loved being with Maureen -- her generosity and kindness... I saw that I am loved.
Sometimes, in the midst of a service, I hear music that touches my soul. Sometimes, when Rabbi sings, I see the intensity of her words, music permeate my soul. Music is such a spiritual experience for me, especially live music.
Mostly the work with Thomas Huebl, especially the 10-day retreat - the walking meditations, the regular meditations, Thomas seeing Bawa above my head. So much spiritual integration happened there, grounding spirit and soul into my body.
I have started to think about God a lot more. I stumbled into it after reading about a democratically minded evangelist, which I thought would be the same as finding a real unicorn. Her name was Jen Hatmaker. I think the biggest experience was watching a Unitarian Universalist service online a week before US elections took place - usual crowds of small groups - and then again a week after - every seat and pulpit was full. I've actually bought a bible too now because of Jen Hatmaker. She can be a little intense, but her heart's in the right place. I kind of stopped though, because I doubt there are others like me who wish to be Christian but refuse to believe that Jesus would be so judgemental and not support gays or other religions or refugees. Nor do I want to be associated with that.
No, still just trying to make my way.
I've had some soul-digging about love and what I want from life. I learned how happy I am in a relationship (at least short-term) and that I definitely do want that. I also learned how awful it is when that relationship is rocky, and how important it is for me to avoid that. And still more awakenings of how much music, writing, and theatre mean to me.
I think my most frequent 'spiritual' experience is when I go to yoga at a time when my body, heart, and mind are so in need of a reset. These past couple of months in particular have been wild and exciting and trying and hard in a lot of ways, and I've been really craving and really connecting with the experiences on my mat a lot more than usual, in all my six years of practice. I am, more often than not, genuinely excited to get onto my mat and just express my feelings and flow everything out of my body that I need to release. I also went SUP boarding for the second time ever in July. I am totally enamored with it, and as someone that often feels like a dunk in Lake Michigan is my version of a mikveh, being in the water but above it is a truly remarkable experience. I love being rocked by the water on a board, and hearing the waves lap up against the side. I love using my strength to steer and guide me, and I love the challenge of balancing my body on the board.
Immersing in the mikvah for my conversion to Judaism was a very spiritual moment, and truly felt like a real milestone in my life. It was amazing to feel the water around me and recite prayers that had been said by Jews for thousands of years before me.
The closest thing I can come up with is my acceptance of the fact that my father wants no part of me. This was extremely difficult as he is 97. Sadly, I will never get the apologies I am so deserving.
I can't think of one defining "spiritual" moment. I can only recall many small, beautiful moments where I felt appropriately detached from the material world. Whenever I found myself deep in the woods, surrounded by trees and/or sleeping alongside a rushing river, I felt as close as I could feel to the ethereal.
Yes! I had a tarot card reading—which, for this atheist who eschews anything that can't be proved by science, was abnormal. But I approached it as two humans in a room, as though one might be able to use their intuition and wisdom on the other, not as if there was some higher force. And it was all of that, and more. It profoundly affected me and gave me the perspective on my life I needed to hear—that all I need to do right now is work on myself, quietly, and not take on anyone else's responsibilities. That if I continued to do so, I would be at a place of self-confidence I have never experienced. That I need to stop thinking and dwelling too much, that life is happy and all I have to do is BE happy. It was wonderful, and it brought me back to a place where I realized that spirituality is whatever you make of it, for yourself.
Since my father has passed, I have felt him......on my shoulder. Lol. I would g otalk to him and he'd say, "mind your own business"! Well, there have been so many times when I was about to do something or say something and I'd her him say to mind my own business! Lol
There have been no spiritual experiences this past year. Sometimes I wonder if my medication has stopped my ability to transcend thought. It is a crazy battle going on in my head and it is constant. I have the ability to calm down and change my thoughts, when I realize that I am lost in ruminating. I have had several "pain" dreams where I am in pain in the dreams and in reality and cry out or moan outloud and wake myself up. Also this past week or so, I have have some very cosmic dreams....one about holding my hand out to a wild tiger in the mountains as I road by on a train. He did not bite me but took a long inhalation of my scent on my hand. Another was about working for an old boss who once lashed out at me when I asked him to pick up something that was at the airport. He was tired and set me straight. I wasn't thinking in real life. In the dream I was aware of this having happened and was extra kind to him. I opened a package of native american pow wow dance wear. I was aware of its sacredness. And treated these things with the utmost care. I did not know anything about native Americans at the time in reality. However had since learned from a close relationship to honor the culture and people and how they see things differently. I am not around any natives these days, but was aware in the dream of the custom.
Every time I visit the Laurence Rockefeller Visitor Center in Grand Teton National Park, I am overwhelmed with a sense of belonging; a physical response to the visual and auditory experiences in this place. It is then doubled by the walk through the forest to Phelps Lake. For no apparent reason, other than spirit/harmony I am crying. This year (Summer of 2017) was no different, as Michael, Daniel and I hiked Death Canyon, overlooking Phelps Lake on our way--past crashing waterfalls. Nothing in the world moves me more than this place. And, this year, Grand Teton NP and its environs was the natural star of Daniel and Emma's wedding-there we were with family and friends. To even write about this brings such joy to me.
The experience of having raised a child and then seen her off to college has been spiritual. What do we do with our lives as parents? For nearly 20 years, make sure that a smaller and more vulnerable human is protected, nourished, cleaned, clothed, educated, tucked in at night and sent off in the morning. The day that the parents breathe in and hug that child good bye is a moment of fulfillment. How many things have we done in our lives that do not have to be done and redone again? But this one is different...the ray of light emanates from our place and time and shines out to theirs, which is in the future.
The death of my cousin, Jason. It made me realize how we can take our lives for granted sometimes and not realize how good we have it. Life is too short to sweat the small stuff. Live and enjoy every minute.
Standing at the water's edge on the North Fork of Long Island Sound, listening to the water going over the stones along the shore, hearing too the far less regular sound of the sea birds calling, complaining. Reminding me that there is more to my world than the ugly political mess.
Looks like I'm still in the same place as last year... I felt disconnected at tashlich, again, and haven't really been able to reflect / introspect at all at this powerful time of year. I'm oscillating like crazy between happy / solid / joyful and impatient / sad / raw -- I could really use some spiritual something! Perhaps my disconnection from this realm is related to the fact that I've been pouring 100% into teaching, traveled all summer, and am oversaturated / stretched way too thinly with friends / social stuff. That doesn't really leave much space for connecting, eh?
The only one I can really think of is when I was thinking about quitting journalism and then right then, totally randomly, a source of mine called and said he had documents I'd been asking for for a really long time. I took it as a sign from the universe not to quit.
Nothing in particular. Maybe a lack of spirituality this year.
None that I can really think of. Just a month or so back, I did shrooms with a friend, but even that wasn't spiritual so much as trippy! The question of spirituality stymies me, because I identify as Jewish and also an atheist. A-theist, nonbeliever...but I do believe. I believe that our earth is showing us that our human time is limited on this planet. I believe we must be kind...or at least authentic. I believe white supremacy, Christian hegemony, and colonialism has informed more than I am currently and possibly ever aware.
I think that David's birth and his bris were spiritual. I felt deeply connected as a woman, totally feeling and being present in bringing him into the world. Then having his bris. THere was a short, so micromoment that just made me feel connected to all the other moms who had gone through this too.
Alex and I had been attended our new church for about a year. We had been worshipping and the pastor did a call, asking for all of those who have something weighing on them to come to the alter. We didn't go. Prayer and worship went on. He stood in front and he said, God is calling you. Come down. I had the urge to go. But Alex didn't budge. So I stayed. Finally after pastors third call (this was the end of survive and we were about 30 minutes into this very heavy emotional worship) and we went down. As soon as our knees hit the ground pastor said, "there you are, he's been waiting" WOAH!! We were in tears, praying, talking, beginning for forgiveness, guidance, and help. After that moment, everything seemed to go up from there.
I was actually sitting in church today, and the Gospel story was about the parable of the owner of a vineyard who hired laborers throughout the day, but ended up paying them all for a full day's wage even though they only worked for an hour. While this seems very unfair, it also ends with the saying that in the kingdom of God, "the first shall be last, and the last shall be first." Our pastor talked about how he never liked preaching on this story, but then he learned that there could be more to the story than we think. The last laborers seemingly waited all day, although they wanted to be hired. So it's perhaps they had issues that prevented them from being hired - disabilities, etc. So maybe the owner was actually being fair and kind by hiring them in the first place. Furthermore, it made me realize that it's not about comparing yourself to others on the journeys we are all on - like the first laborers that worked all day did. It's about just following your own path. Others have their own journeys. So focusing on your own journey is the best path forward.
Being in Yellowstone and Grand Teton, and finding opportunities to swim naked in so many beautiful places, was definitely spiritual. We swam in Shoshone Lake, Lewis Lake, String Lake, and Jackson Lake. Nothing between us and the water but our wedding rings. Nothing between us and the sky and mountains but air and sunshine - and a few bugs!
I started praying on the subway again and it has helped a lot. I love the rhythm of it, the pace. I love the praying in a group of people where some are also praying and others are not. The anonymous-minyan-making of religious New Yorkers. I love finding prayer meaningful even when I'm not believing in God and don't know how to find my way in to belief (or if I even care to).
My spiritual experience has been the depths of depression as I’ve never known it and the rawness that led me to some clarity as to how I got to it. Years of veils were lifted enough for me to own some behaviors I was never willing to look at for more than a brief moment here and there. The root seems to be nuetral; figity, sadness, unstructured thoughts, feeling small, feeling too large and overcompensating..... all these things led to fighting for my life while in simple conversatiin with friends and family, shame, guilt, feeling unworthy of love & respect from myself and others, inability to connect and commit bc of my lack of focus...to name a few.... The fact is, and I’ve know this all along until the last few year when I seem to have forgotten entirely, I’m lovely kind and have a strong voice and deep abiding love and respect for others. My creativity and passion are intense, serious and skilled. I’m realizing that that means I have it for myself. I am, after getting out of chicago and shaking myself up, getting closer to realizing these qualities in myself. With the help of herbs I’ve been taking per Collin’s Rx which has done more for me than a lifetime of medicines that my natural state is blundered, healthy and hell, fun. I have people in my life that love me and I have some work to do on being okay with it...the key now is to have the patience to, in some cases, accept the pushback, generally with family, that seems to happen when there is a change in the family dynamic. I take no issue with it as long as I stay strong in myself and remain flexible with an open heart. I also saw in myself the ability to the beauty of other when they have been in decline towards death. A few days before Leah passed on I found myself smiling at her and feeling her present and then leaving the room recognizing the joy of her when she came back to her body. Although though in a drug haze, death was no match for the purity of a persons spirit before to move on.....love wins
With the awesome amazement of G-d healing my husband and the gift the L-RD has given in allowing me to see how he has worked to align all my needs... I hold the gift of declaring firmly G-d IS, was, and always will be MY G-D
This is hard question - I do feel like a transition has taken place in the last year. My faith and spirituality makes me happy. I know I can be a better person, a better Christian, and am working towards that. I feel a kinship with Stacy who lost her mom less than a year ago from CHF. I feel more at peace with someone who knows exactly how I'm feeling. That inhances my feeling of spirituality, by helping her through the grief process. It has healed me as well. I do feel the need to be more artistic and be in touch with experiences around me. I want in the next year to compile and write funny stories. To put together a book. To be able to put something into the world that might make others laugh, cry, and feel something. I want to continue to expand my knowledge of Christianity. And to strive to be more spiritual. I sense this new exciting journey in my future. And I am excited.
Joining Ikar and being accepted as a member of their community has been profoundly spiritual. This last year I really felt that my spirituality well was running dry, but getting closer to the mission of this temple and joining its young adult leadership group has helped me replenish that. I have found that I need to nurture that side of myself to feel more whole and fulfilled, and I'm overjoyed to say I finally belong to a real temple for the first time in my life! I'm not sure if it counts, but Rosh Hashanah at Base Hillel last week was the single most profoundly spiritual experience I've had in 2017. The holiness was palpable and the connection to community really does give me that sense of completeness that I turn to religion for.
Looking out over Jerusalem on that rooftop that our birthright leader took us to before Shabbat - you could hear the sounds of people singing and getting ready for Shabbat and I think it's the most connected I've felt to Judaism outside of family gatherings. It was like you could feel Jews all over the world coming together to be mindful on Shabbat together. And how cool is it that Judaism makes a space, a separation, for that communal headspace.
The loss of my dad just comes up so often in my reflection of this past year - it has truly been something that has shaken me to my core and has changed my reality forever. The condolences right after his death were like a stab to the gut and they're still hard for me to read, hear, or take. People ask what I need and I say nothing because I don't know what I need right now. At times I'm still stumbling along, I laugh, I cry, I mumble ... I get up, I eat, I sleep. I function. It's also made me realize just how blessed I am to have those that I have in my life, my husband and my sister and my kids and friends and coworkers. This is such a process even though months have passed ... sometimes I still take it second by second ... My husband has let me hold on to him for no reason without asking why. My kids have let me hold their hands a bit longer and a bit tighter ... my sister has been the one who has helped the most with sharing of herself and baring her soul as I bare mine - we have become so much closer and I'm sure dad couldn't be more proud. Those are the blessings of my life right now. For that I am truly grateful.
My answer for this seems to almost always be the same. "Not in the actual sense but traveling is the closest I come to having a spiritual experience." This past year I've gotten that sense of awe and reverence of the past from traversing the catacombs of Paris, climbing the Acropolis, and wandering the canal-lines streets of Amsterdam.
There is nothing I would describe as spiritual for myself. I did feel a sense of the weight of history when I visited Italy on my honeymoon, particularly in Pompeii. Obviously the signs of ancient civilization are amazing, but I was particularly sobered by the ruins destroyed by bombs in more recent wars. So tragic, and so human.
Not that I can think of, lol.
I spent winter break outside with Hella on a different trail every day. I still put my faith in the future. I'm exploring the idea of kindness.I don't have much to say on this topic this year.
Yes, it was in the Spanish Synagogue in the Jewish ghetto of Venice. I went there for Services on Shabbat morning. There was the overwhelming awareness of our interconnectedness and God's loving presence in that Sanctuary on high.
Nothing major has happened again this year. I'm finally trying to go to church again and find a place that actually loves both God and people, so we'll see if I can find that here!
Integration on the Land in Sedona coinciding with my conversion and reaffirming my witchcraft roots. Being elected as an earthbound angel to serve and teach.
I feel like I have moved away from a daily meditation practice and more into a bodily and mental one. My painting and creative outlet has made way to the need and creative pull of the boutiuqe
I'm not spiritual in any way, but I think my ability to manage my emotions and reactions has gotten better. I work in an industry where my interactions with clients could be seen as putting on a show. You help them in their toughest times, and have to stay professional yet caring and invested in what they're going through. When they get mad you can't get mad back either. "Kill them with kindness" has often been my mantra for tough clients. And for the ones going through pain, I have to stay strong show sympathy, and yet be straightforward about what's hapoening and talk them through costs and collect money, all in the same appointment!
I have a hard time focusing on this question because for the first seven months of this year my life was turned upside down with the combination of health and relationship issues. I do consider myself a spiritual person and my religion is very important to me.
The birth of a grandson coinciding with my retirement, thus I've been able to be there visiting or babysitting each week and see him grow from a small baby to a 9 month old. It is truly a sacred experience to see him/his personality and identity in formation.
Because of my husband's medical challenges, and my own medical issues, fatgue has been an ongoing theme, preventing me from attending services on any kind of regular basis. My women's choir has continued to serve as my spiritual anchor - both musically, and through the interpersonal support we provide each other in the group
I took acid for the first time, which reaffirmed a commitment to continuing work on my music, creating and making things in general, and doing less of what other people want for me and more of what I want for myself.
Religious: Multiple times this year I have felt a very close connection to God while saying the shema. I try to take time out of every day to pause and say the shema and connect. This prayer has always felt like the defining statement of my faith and everything else just falls away when I focus on those words. Non-religious: Experiencing the total solar eclipse this summer was a very profound moment. It was one of those things that makes you feel so small and yet so connected. Millions of people stopped everything to watch this huge cosmic event happen and time stood still just for a few minutes. It was something I had never experienced before but I hope I can see another one in this lifetime!
I was confirmed on May 7th, 2017. I had an amazing time on my confirmation retreat, the play, and spending the past few months with my class of 17. It truly felt like a very sacred experience because I am blessed to have such amazing friends
In January or February after a session with Julie, I had some time to kill before heading to the restaurant for work, so I drove out to Muir Beach. It was lightly raining and the sun was setting. The clouds were pink and orange and moving. I parked, got out, and walked to the beach. And I sat there and I cried. But it was more of motivational cry than a sad one. I felt so moved by the beauty and the power of the ocean and so at home in its seeming simplicity and I finally felt connected to something again after months of being terrified by my distance and lack of interest, where it felt as though I was drifting into the darkness by myself. I was put here for a reason and despite all the hard times in my life, in the world, I am part of the movement to stand up for and protect this life-giving planet of ours. And that realization gave me life back. And it gave me light. And then the crying turned a bit more emotional. Not only would I make it out of the darkness I was in, but I could feel purpose again.
I feel like I have, but unable to remember due to this condition that affects my recall. What is amazing is I am able to kvell in the present. Just recently, I was sitting at my daughter's kitchen table with both daughters and my granddaughter. We were eating challah and honey and coffee and eggs. I knew at that moment when I looked around that table that it do don't get better than this!
Going to the womens march in January was very empowering. I had never participated in a march before...to see the swells of people everywhere, representing many different causes was overwhelming. To see downtown Los Angeles filled with millions of people gave me hope.
Times when I have felt close to God, I'm starting to hear from him more.
The only Spiritual experience i had is when God shows me a way and keeps waking me up in the morning and watching me and my family and friends and everybody else in the world even if they don't believe. We are all God's children and we should stand together and love one another.
I hiked down to the bottom of the Grand Canyon on a 4-day trek. It was an awesome trip that pushed me physically and mentally. The vast scale of the place and the unforgiving nature brought clarity to my mind as to what is important in this world - and that is - to be kind to others and be respectful of mother nature since we all eventually become part of it.
Speaking with someone on a spiritual plane through light travel pretty much blew my mind, especially since that person died the next day. Having had a witness to what I experienced as a medium to communicate with a dying woman, I swore if it came to pass that she received the message of spirit that I would move to a mountainside. Yes of course she received the message and I am still in the city. Better to remember the experience I had to remind me of what matters and my spirit is always content with the peace of God.
I want to say I have, but none specifically come to mind.
I've come to define 'spiritual' as 'transcendental', or in other words the sense that you are only a small piece in a very large puzzle. Well, thát feeling I had while hiking in the magnificent Dolomite mountains (Italy), pondering the processes of geology that shaped those mountains so many aeons ago. And that one particular plateau that looked so very primordial, as if this was the place where the magnificent Ice Age glaciers were born... Transcendental, with a big T.
My aunt Joy died. I went to see her before she died. I said that shema for her I talk to her a little bit. She moved around I think that she was aware. When I got up to leave I could feel the spirit is moving around. The next day I went to work people ask me how is your aunt doing. I said, she's going to die. She was gone the next day. I want to go get my other aunt for the funeral everyone was there. It was not lost on me that she passed away on the eve of Rosh Hashanah. I don't know that this was extremely spiritual for me, because I have been around people that are in transition between life and death before. It's been several years, now the first time that I got the feeling that something was weird or spirits around me and then someone passway. I feel like I'm really blessed because I know what that is. I'm glad I got to say goodbye. Makes me think about my mom and my other aunt now much I'm going to miss them. very thankful that we were put together. That we've served time together, ha ha ha
since we're broadly defining it... I went to Australia and visited the blue mountains including Beautiful waterfalls. A I'm very interesting and varied country with respect to landscape. I was very disappointed with the diving in the great barrier reef, it seemed to me that 80 to 90% of the coral is gone. very sad....
Made udders for the Obon eggplant cow.
When I was going through a particularly difficult time, I remembered a book on Buddhism that had been given to me by chance through someone who was practically a stranger. I started reading it, and low and behold, it was exactly what I needed at that particular time. It has opened my eyes to how beautiful the practice of a powerful thing can be and how it doesn't necessarily have to be considered a "religion".
I'm not sure this qualifies as a spiritual experience, but this space is mine, isn't it? This past year, I've been delving into the depths of my thoughts and fears, with and without the help of my therapist. I've found out a lot about myself and it has given me a lot of insight into my life. Future me, pardon me for my vagueness but I'm permanently sleepy.
I don't know what my problem is. I guess you would call it a crisis of faith. I have always been someone with a lot of faith, always been an optimist and believed in the goodness and love of the Lord. However I find myself paralyzed by the fear and doubt in my heart right now. I know God can make miracles, I’ve experienced them myself. But at the same time, if anyone “deserved” or could have “earned” healing, it was my mother. She was so spiritually active and devoted, she did everything “right”. And yet she died of a rare blood disorder at 54, even though she spent years actively seeking a miracle (while still pursuing medical treatment). So then you get into not knowing the will of God, which leads to wondering if God’s will is going to be done, why do I need to pray and ask for it? I feel sure that sooner or later, my faith will bunch up underneath me like muscles again and I’ll be prepared to leap into action. Right now I am just stunned into inaction.
I keep hoping for a spiritual experience. I am a poor student of "A Course in Miracles," in which I try to keep up with the "Workbook" portion and have registered for a year long course to study it. However, I don't believe in God. I don't believe in anything. I'm finding this whole experience to be baffling and absurd. Yet I pray.
I have not... though i am really spending more time investigating my spiritualit
I think my mind has been so busy this year (my mom dying, separating from John, moving, new job hating it looking again, that spirituality has been lost in the hub bub. I did not make time - enough time - for it to flourish. That said - there were instances - not long patches- but quick moments: in temple, in writing, with patients. To more quiet mind to touch the divine. Ox
Learning to connect with myself again. Being more patient. I know things other people don't know.
I became Catholic the year, a journey 26 years in the making!
Well taken care of my mother has certainly been a spiritual experience so has meditation at some level when I get the chakras going and feel expansiveness and peacefulness. This is affected me bye creating a different perspective on life and what's important in it.
Being loved unconditionally is a transformative experience. It changes everything; my interactions with my family, the messages I send myself, the risks I take and the way I conduct myself in the larger world. Being loved like that is a truly freeing experience because it feels like someone is saying for the first time ever, "You are enough exactly the way you are."
I have lost friends, had my dogs die before their time, become disabled and found out that a person I trusted was completely untrustworthy. I learned how to hate and learned that even hate,.grief and despair won't kill me, as I've so long feared.
Not really. Although my spiritual life has become more important to me and I'm seeking out more spiritual connection. I do feel, however, that I'm more clear about what really matters to me in life, and feel more connected to myself in a spiritual way.
I have them. Constantly. I decided to live my life with a new attitude. I just do what I have to do. And what I have to do is to be a nice guy, to do as many mitzvoth for others as possible. It might have worked... yesterday I found my bike, that was stolen over a month ago! Maybe good things do happen when you do good things!
Hmm, yes. I would say that I have. I became born-again in 2016, and until some few weeks ago, I haven't had the Spirit of God dwelling in me. I am not sure if it is the Holy Spirit or the Spirit of God. Is there a difference between the two? Why I am still confused about that is because I read somewhere that it is not possible for the spirit-filled Christian to sin or remain in it (maybe that's just an extreme opinion). Maybe it is the Holy Spirit I have in me and its effectiveness depends on my growth and openess to it. But one thing I noticed is that it nevers leaves me. Like it is in my spirit always. Whenever I sin or get mad or engage in anything contrary to what God says/want. It is always there. I might not pray or talk to God for like a whole week and whenever I decide to, I still find it there. Always. Ready and open to accept me back or converse with me. Or could it be my own recreated spirit that is finally growing? :) I really hope so! But I talk to God through it. He talks to me, and corrects me and advices me. He gives me insights and revelations and he teaches me too. He helps me think.. That has affected or I'd rather say helped me in my dealings with people. I understand them better and don't fly off the handle like I used to. My thoughts process has been more organised, accurate and cleared. I don't over-think, I don't worry, I am not anxious nor scared. I feel more energized to perform my chores/work too! I feel optimistic, and motivated to achieve my dreams...!!!
Spiritual; wow. I've kind of given up on the spirit thing since formally leaving the Catholic Church in 2005, but I do still connect deeply with nature and humanity in a way I suppose some would consider spiritual. If there is a part of my development over the past year that was MOST lacking, I'd say it was in my spirituality. I did form and keep a once-daily meditation habit, of which I am proud, but beyond that, nada. I tend to get wholly wrapped up in the tangible world and neglect the things that, beyond being beautiful (like nature) could teach me about a deeper spirituality. I suppose this is the "there's always next year" question.
No. Once again, no. How do people have this? I wish I did.
I have experienced some very intense times connecting to spirit this year. Many of them involved animal guides, such as snakes (a new one for me) and owls, and their lessons and guidance. Also, undergoing a rebirthing session in the cranio-babies class was just as profound as going through the death meditation that I did in 2015. In both cases, I learned or rather remembered how connected I am (or can be) to my origins, and how light this life can be when I am not tied to carrying everyone else's burdens. Remembering my spirit, my origins, helps me to remember that this is my life alone. I do not have to be responsible for anyone else's happiness.
I had several while I was abroad this summer. Being in the Sagrada Familia really stands out. The cathedral itself is awesome in the truest sense of the word. There's a part of it where you can sit, and no use of electronics is allowed in that area. It is for praying only. While I was in there, it was powerful, the feeling I felt. God's presence was definitely there.
Being a good ancestor. Feeling connected to the past while looking forward into the future with intentional decisions.
I have the honor of reading in my church about once a month. Every time I prepare to read is a new spiritual experience working with God's word. I have a very special feeling that I am having just a little more intimate experience with my Creator.
YES praying for Joey's relationship and the baby miracles are happening, we continue praying for Logan and Joey to follow GOD's hearts desires.
I have began the practice of meditation. I find it wonderfully grounding. I feel a sense of oneness with nature around me as I walk along the trail and focus on the experiences around me. It has helped me deal with stress and anxiety in my life, and helped me view my relationships in a new way. It has been a wonderfully healthy habit I have picked up and I plan on continuing in the future.
Similar to last year. I feel like I have several spiritual experiences all the time. Nothing is particularly earth shattering or life changing but I get reminders from time to time about my relationship with G-d.
No, it's been a very earthly year but I think I am laying groundwork for spiritual pursuits.
I really can't think of anything this year. I had a wonderful time in Jamaica last April. I don't know if I would call it spiritual. We hung out at the au natural section of the resort most of the week and met wonderful people. It was a turning point for me to be comfortable going au natural for the week and it felt great. I can't wait to go back again next year. Definitely cuts down on the amount of clothing I have to pack.
Definitely an awakening of artistic and creativity. It’s a part of my life and I’ve needed it but now it’s my full time hobby . The awakening is more of a confidence to pursue it without fear or judgement and I keep being surprised that I’m still in it and pushing it forward.
I can't think of any spiritual experiences, although I've probably had some. I'd say maybe seeing Hamilton counts?
Walking with my parents through illness and aging has been profoundly spiritual. Having retired in the last year, I took up a long-held dream of volunteering for a hospice. Soon my time became less and I realized that my family is in hospice, in a way. And this is my work to do at this time.
I can't help but wonder if there's any coincidence that my uncle, who I am named after in honor of his dedication to his family and never having children of his own, died a few weeks after I had seen him for the first time in 2 years. He was in poor health for a long time, but it's hard to not think there is a connection there.
Yes. I discovered a kindred spirit in the “religion” of Rob Bell. I felt so much less alone in the world, hearing from someone else not afraid to dance with the uncertainty and able to just sit with the contradiction.
I am so frequently moved to tears as I watch my children experience things for the 1st, 5th, 10th, 100th time and see the experience through their sweet, innocent, and inquiring eyes. Everything, as a parent, has been in some way spiritual for me which I know sounds totally cliche. I feel so tremendously luck to be a mama, THEIR mama, even when I'm completely exhausted, frustrated, and DONE.
I can't recall any. I'm not much of a spiritual person and I don't remember any super deep connections to anything secular as well.
Every year I lament that I didn't spend more time and mental energy on connecting to the world more spiritually or making time to pray/go to services. This year, unfortunately, is the same. Time runs away one day at a time.. This year the passing of my mother and my aunt makes me contemplate the meaning of existence and where do we all go. Certainly mortality and the passing of time are on my mind. A lot of questions and not many answers. Again, I will try to connect..
Will and I went to a Zen Buddhist service two weeks ago, and then went to an Episcopal Evensong service this past week. Going wasn't a big deal in and of itself but opening up to your husband about this part of your life feels very exposed, very intimate. After nearly a decade it's nice to see that we're still growing together. We're both open and serious about approaching these two disparate things actually share a lot.
I think I have been more in touch with nature this year, and that has had a calming effect on me.
Yes! The eclipse in August. We took a 2000 mile road trip in the middle of a planned vacation on the other side of the country to be in the path of totality. I was totally skeptical - but it was a truly awesome (in the purest sense of the word) experience. It brought me to tears, honestly. Among other things, it made me realize that there are things that are really worth switching everything up for. Also, I felt badly for being so skeptical of Neil's ideas, and the experience made me more determined to be open to suggestions and ideas, and less dismissive.
I finally finished my years long painting and while I'm happy with parts of it, I'm disappointed in it overall. I keep getting bits of inspiration to write, but I never do... it's a rough year spiritually.
I have begun going to synagogue almost weekly. I wouldn't say synagogue itself is spiritual to me, but I have been reflecting more on where Judaism fits into my life and that feels very spiritually important.
This year loss has been a challenge to my spirit and spirituality. Loss of my relationship to my son, my parents' loss of health and well being. My daughter's struggles with a chronic health issue. I work with Stage IV cancer patients and many lose their lives, which of course impacts me, my staff and our volunteers. It is sad. It makes me truly recognize the fragility of life. I have not come to any conclusions about any of this. I am in the struggle.
Not that i can think of and that's really sad
Spiritual? I wish I could say I have. The task of merely surviving one day at a time might qualify.
My relationship with faith changed this year. I cannot say that I believe in God anymore. I also decided that I'm going to behave and practice my faith as though I do. I am a behaviorist and I think that acting faithful may just help increase my faith. And even if it doesn't ... what harm is there in harboring hope in this dark, sad world.
spiritual? hard to say. I still pray daily. I do little "talks" to who I feel is my connection. I can't verbalize "it". It's just something that is in my being. Something I need to do. It's not part of any organized movement unless you count the way the world seems to be going. More introspective and less organized. I feel we have this little bubble in our national consciousness. There is a generation(s) that have been raised without ethics. They have a sense of entitlement and lack of direction or motivation. I am hoping the pendulum swings back the other way. Raising our levels or responsibility to each other. Back to sharing instead of hording. That is my hope that we become a spiritual country again. And ship out all of the people who hide behind religion to further their nasty, hateful, selfish, racist,homophobic (need I go on?) way of life/thinking in the name of God. There is a special place in hell for those who use God this way. So, nothing in particular, just everything in general.
Every year for the past few years, I attend a quiet retreat at our synagogue. It is always very useful, and provides a time to think about the past year and look forward to the next. As my life is often very busy, I greatly appreciate the opportunity for quiet.
Partly because of the political climate, I have found my spiritual life and my "social action" life much more intertwined. I have been given the gift of a theological education. I am using that filter as I read and hear and process the events in the world. I am attempting to bear witness to the truth as I know it. I am using my voice, after many years of living with a deeply buried social conscience. This past year I have been verbally attacked by several people who identify as Christian for the stands I have taken. These have all been people who knew me in my silent days and so they may be understandably feeling a sense of betrayal, having been led by my silence to believe I was complicit with their world view. I was blinded by my need to "fit in", to belong. I now cherish a new circle of friends who are like-minded and passionate about their desire for civility, equity, justice, mercy and welcoming the stranger. I am grateful for the biblical prophetic witness which has challenged me throughout my life.
Does creeping dread count? Participating in the women's march in DC...coming out of the subway, hearing the sound of the crowd, I felt almost high for a minute, like being part of something enormous and so full of energy. I need that energy now.
My happiest place for my soul is in the theater so my yearly June trips to nyc with Armen is one of the highlights of the year. This past year we saw 6 shows and I just felt such joy sitting in each and every theater. Doing the stage door is so much fun, I am on such a high after each experience.
Specifically, and in time for Yontiff, I had met with Sruly (my Chabad rabbi) and agreed to begin laying tefillin daily. I have been at it for 3 weeks now and feel like it was a surprising, unexpected result of our most recent visit together. He had purchased the pair years ago when I was seeing him regularly and the bag had been sitting unused since then. I feel like I have added a very special, personal ritual to my Jewish observance that feels natural and not forced in any way. It makes me feel as if I have a connection with the long line of Jewish men who have come before me and have worshiped in this way as part of their daily ritual observance. I am curious in what ways in will resonate with me throughout my week and look forward to the added daily connection it gives me to Ha Shem.
The same activities that I mentioned last year ring true for me again this year: singing with C!C!C!, kayaking, and open water swimming are the three most spiritual-awakening experiences I seem to have, but I can now add cycling and (gasp!) running to the mix as well. I started running with a group on Tuesday nights in January this year, and it was an effort to be more social while doing the activities I enjoy, so it's definitely improved my fitness to chat while getting my 10k in, and the running feels like meditation while we get to know each other more personally. Likewise, when I train by myself and I'm surrounded by nature, I have time to reflect, feel gratitude, and think through situations more clearly. I always feel grateful for what my body is capable of and I appreciate my relative good health, knowing it is not guaranteed and can change at any time.
Last December I participated in a rally called "Out of many, one" at the Islamic Society of Boston Cultural Center. It was wonderful and powerful to be in the midst of several thousand people supporting friendship and dialog. The generous welcome of the ISBCC, the voices of religious leaders from many traditions, the politicians supporting...well, motherhood and apple pie, but in a country where motherhood and apple pie have fallen out of favor. Of course all of these religious and political traditions have been part of the problem on many occasions for centuries. It was joyously uplifting to see them pushing hard to be part of the solution.
YES! finally know who my guides are 4 women Ostara Hathor Artemis Aphrodite
Going to Temple on a more regular basis has been good for me. I want to become closer to GD. It's a struggle that seems like it shouldn't be a struggle. Hineini. Here I am
No. I have nothing. I enjoy relaxing in nature, which is the closest I get to feeling spiritual. My wife and I spent a glorious two weeks in the Pacific Northwest this summer, and I enjoyed exploring Olympic National Park and Mount Ranier National Park immensely. I believe that our world was created by some sort of higher power, something beyond pure science. Such beauty is simply breathtaking.
I enjoyed synagogue for the first time in years (decades?). With our children and friends on our left and right, I finally felt like I was in the right place. Not with my parents, not where I was told to go, but where we chose to go. It filled my heart.
sharing the recipes of my Mother, of blessed memory, with my sons. it brings me calm and joy to see them making taking joy in in the holidays too!
Nope!
When going through a breakup last year, I used yoga to help me feel calm and grounded while moving on. Incorporating marijuana into yoga has been a game changing experience for me, as well. I've learned to trust my own body more and feel like I can handle whatever life throws at me.
The journey we made to northern BC and the Liard Hot Springs was one of revisiting old places and re-acquainting myself with who I once was. I came to understand my 50 year old self and to forgive her for the decisions that she made so long ago.
not many to speak of. i guess being able to escape the city by myself and go to cape cod during the summer when my boyfriend couldn't go-- driving the whole way there and back by myself made me feel more powerful, more in control of my own life. not sure if you could call that spiritual. but it sure meant a lot to me.
My wife and I hosted our first Passover at our house for our families. It turned out really great and was a lot of fun
I have not really had an spiritual experiences this past year. I don't consider myself to be spiritual - I am not religious, nor artistic. I find that I am at peace when I am around the ones that I love.
I don't really think of any experience as spiritual and I can't think of anything that would count. Maybe how my girlfriend and I fell in love? That was pretty magical.
I have slowly come back to the faith. I'm not all the way back in, but significantly further in than I was a year ago. Progress, right? I would love to find that reason, that pull to feel compelled to dive in head first again. Maybe joining a Bible Study, or meeting someone who is super on-fire will be the tipping point!
This is interesting because until the holidays came about I hadn't really had any spiritual experiences this year. Then I went to Rosh Hashanah services with my mom and I felt so moved watching her as the president lead so many people and seeing everything come together was kinda neat.
Probably the most spiritual experience this last year was the women's march. Being surrounded by so many fighting for a common cause was exceptional. I was jazzed up. I was so excited to fight for equality, for human rights, and to fight the power.
I have not had any significant spiritual experience this past year. I have only been very prayerful for those who I love that God will bless them. I have been going through the motions and getting work done that needs to get done getting things processed. I have not had a lot of time for self-reflection or prayer or meditation. Perhaps that is something I should pursue as a goal this coming year. I did purchase an instrument and I am able to sing again with the instrument. Some of the songs help me be reflective and move me to perhaps behave differently throughout my day.
I've had spiritual experiences every day. I practice daily reading during a morning practice along with meditation every day. I write a gratitude list every night before bed. I notice my ways of being, my compassion for myself and others most every day. I am so grateful for my spiritual self these days. I have a HP in nature and music and theater, and I participate in all three of these on a daily basis, always reminding me that there's so much beauty out there that's greater than I am. So much of this I turn to for solace and gratitude and grounding.
Most such experiences have been in arts & travel, though the memorable moments of intimacy with Karen, Dad, family & friends are always most satisfying. The experience of a total eclipse, especially with a group traveling for just such a purpose was inspirational. That same tour also afforded some of the most beautiful natural scenery in our National Parks I have ever seen. Having the family together in Maui was most fulfilling, but the most "spiritual" experiences were watching and playing with grand boys. Seeing 8 theatrical productions in 6 days in Manhattan was amazing, as the productions were all moving and of such high quality to elicit emotional responses. Finally, personal performing arts experiences, singing at the Choral Festival and having the lead in a musical were amazing experiences.
Being faced with two surgeries, one for basal cell and one for a benign tumor in my spinal canal has turned me away from my mis-perception of personal control over the universe, and back to being humbled and grateful to God. Go figure... I am aware of being much more present in the moment and of being able to receive more fully the gifts that I am given in every moment.
I feel like the major spiritual experience I keep having is that after some time struggling and not pursuing my faith when I come back I to the basics and just dedicating time with God I really get it. This past weekend I went to church and heard a sermon that was based on the fundamentals of Christianity and I felt like I really needed that reminder of what the foundation is. Between advice given by my best friend and that sermon I feel really shored up and challenged to grow and to stand and be strong in what I already know.
Maybe? This past year, I didn't really experience anything that I would consider spiritual. I've learned a lot, but I haven't had any huge "lightswitch" like moments. One of the more surprising things was my 40th birthday, I still can't get over how much of a good time I had. It was great, it was just what I was hoping for.
So, I reread the book Many Lives, Many Masters. When I read the book the first time, I found it to be interesting, thought provoking, and comforting. This time around, I found it so fascinating and meaningful. I would love to learn more about past lives--it was super interesting because in talking to my mom, we both find that we connect to the same time periods, places, and people--independently of ever having discussed it with one another. This made me believe even further in the idea of souls reincarnating together. Maybe it's why I love history so much and connect with it.
I am part of a recovery proram for friends and families of alcoholics and addicts. I began working the 12 steps this past year, during which I dicovered my Higher Power and began connecting to Her, asking for Her guidance, and learning to trust that She has my best interests at heart, and that I am in great care. This is a huge step for me because I've had control issues my entire life as a result of living with an alcoholic parent. I learned to let go of control, and to turn over the outcomes of situations, of life in general, to my Higher Power. I also chose to give my Higher Power a female gender because, frankly, men have been in charge for a while now. Let's have a woman have a go at it. So far, so great.
I think being at school has made me realize how important Judaism is to me. Not only have some of my best friends and most important support systems here been found in the Jewish community, but because I don’t go to services as regularly as I used to I find myself particularly moved by them (when they are organized and well-led).
This year I traveled to Jerusalem for Adeena's wedding, and I went to Jerusalem and the Kotel. Being at a place of such cultural and spiritual significance moved me to tears. I thought about all of those who made my journey possible, about everyone who I carried with me in spirit, and most especially of my grandmother. I had thought of myself as being immune to emotions brought on by faith, but I truly loved that I was able to feel connected to generations of family by standing in a spot they may have stood.
This year found us back at church as a family, and we chose to get our son baptized. This all has led me to making the choice to convert to Catholicism and go through RCIA classes.
I have kind of had a disconnect with my faith and spirituality at the moment. Last time I attended service was at Passover in March. I still believe in God and try to do good things but I am also at the same time trying to focus more on my own personal wellbeing than following any books or organized rules.
I'm finding a spiritual connection as pieces of my life fall into place. Yes, these were part of my plans but I somehow feel a spiritual being orchestrating the outcome.
No. I've never been a particularly spiritual person, and I participate in religious activities because I know it makes my family happy. I don't really believe in a god, or that there's anything out there. I wish that I could believe in something like that, but I don't. I've read some beautiful words, listened to beautiful music, seen beautiful views, witnessed beautiful sporting events, but no god.
I'm glad they added the secular qualification this year! I think spending the summer with my family would probably be the closest I felt to a 'spiritual' experience. I've lived far from my parents for 11 years now and chose to spend the entire summer with them, staying at their house. It really affected me, and forced me to think about what kind of family/structure I want moving forward. I definitely want to live closer to my parents and, for the first time ever, I think I might want my own family (in my own time)! It was awesome to have so much uninterrupted time with my parents and be able to help them, travel with them, and just hang out. It really changed how I view them and how they view me. I'm grateful that my job allowed me that time and I know I need to continue spending more time with my family.
Nothing particularly spiritual. Just learning to get out more an embrace life has been good for me and my marriage.
I have discovered a particular form of solace and peace while walking through the Dixon Gardens. I enjoy the Botanic Gardens as well, but stepping into the trees in the Dixon Gardens feels very much like returning to my childhood. As it should; many of my happiest memories of childhood were in the woods. Childhood is such a short piece of many people's lives (if the health quiz I took the other day was correct and I do live to be 98, childhood will have been but a fragment of mine), yet there is such power in it. What happens to us as children informs the adults we will become. Our younger days are the clay from which our true selves emerge. I am therefore ever more conscious of my role in shaping the two young people I have created.
No, I don't see myself as very spiritual.
I've spent significant time this year thinking about how I am and what I value including how I want to affect the world. I changed careers hoping to find a way to help organizations increase their well-being and effectiveness by adopting mindsets of abundance and vitality - putting the employee and customer at the center of their purpose and trading short-term thinking for long-term growth.
This summer, as I went to the funeral of my mother-in-law and what will likely be the last big reunion of the whole family; as I visited my mother in her care facility and discovered she can speak a little, understands speech, loves the old songs; as I visited the two eldest grandchildren and felt their steadfast love; as I got acquainted with the youngest grandbaby; as I helped to tend my father as his health fails and he gets closer and closer to the threshold into the unknown-- I found myself going deeply enough into grief, fear, and hopelessness to feel the sorrow and pain. Then waking in the mornings with a song in my heart and a living sense of the Divine Presence. Through all the tumult and the strife, I hear that music ringing; it sounds an echo in my soul-- how can I keep from singing?
My most spiritual experiences have been protests, marches, and vigils. At Hanukkah, so soon after 45's election, placing our menorahs in the window to shine lights on the neighborhood felt very spiritual. I remembered the photo of the menorah in the window of the Jewish home in Germany, facing down Nazi banners, and felt myself part of a continuity of love and defiance.
Getting engaged was such a moving experience. I have been with Jeff for so long, and imagined what it would mean to me, but I never imagined how big it would feel. knew it was happening once the night started and I was so thrilled. When he actually proposed I still felt so moved that I was almost unable to speak. It was such an incredibly huge moment in my life, I felt both connected to everyone around me and completely within myself, almost by myself. In that moment I knew my life was changing. I have never felt something like that before.
Well I lead a group of high school students on a trip to Japan that included 3 days spent learning Zen meditation at a Buddhist temple. This was my second time going through the meditation training, so I figured that I knew what to expect. Surprisingly, it felt really different this second time around. The first year's meditation training was like digging down to get into a place that was always there but never used. The journey felt rough and there was no warm welcome when you got there. The second time though, I felt as though I was revisiting a place where someone left the lights and heater on for you. We were taught things about food appreciation, and some of that finally clicked as well.
I went to church the Sunday before I moved to NY in 2014 and heard a message from a pastor from Brooklyn, that made me completely at peace with my decision to test out NY. This time I went to church on 9/17/2017 and again heard a message and it was basically God telling me not to be anxious about my move back to LA, that everything is gonna be fine. I was also really upset about moving away from my gym and gym friends and at my gym there was an instructor there who was from the gym I will be joining in LA. So things like these keep happening and it just makes me feel like i made the right decision.
Watching the sockeye salmon spawning in the Cedar River. Peace, quiet, nature renewing itself, no crazy president, no war, no threats, no poverty,....only fish doing what fish do: birth -> swim down river -> Lake Washington -> Lake Union -> Ballard Locks -> Puget Sound -> Pacific Ocean *&* if they survive, a return trip to their natal river in 4 years.
Some spiritual experiences are being a go-giver to my co workers at work. The art of connecting with other human beings by being a go-giver is full of love. The idea of forgiveness for yourself is very liberating feeling. Stop being so hard on urself. The art of listening and being present about not thinking about what to say next to freeing. Asking deeper questions such as what is my bliss. The idea of helping others that are hearing impaired flairs up some bliss.
Being introduced to Shaiah's Quadratos has illuminated the gospels for me. I'm grateful for this man and for the Holy Spirit leading me into even more Truth. Heart & Mind is going down on my list of The Most Important Books of My Life.
When I watched the totality with my own eyes, it was the first time that I have ever felt moved to spontaneously pray because of awe and wonder. I don't think that I will ever forget that experience.
yes and no
I think that spending Rosh Hashana dancing on the beach with a tambourine in the drum circle wearing white was something that connected me. It felt like I was dancing through generations of Jewish women, understanding the flow of the universe and my place in it as both a mere mortal and a part of something greater. It put me in the here and now and into the past. If that isn't spiritual, then I don't know what is.
The Pre Cana retreat was worth every penny. I'll never forget how I felt when I turned to Greg late Saturday night after 36 hours of non-stop relationship discussion and realized this was my future life partner, team mate and father of my children in front of me. Powerful stuff. I'm so happy we got the weekend away to just focus on us.
I felt completely happy, without any worries or judgement during my son's wedding weekend. I felt pride.
My annual trip to Esalen is a spiritual tradition that reminds me to reconnect with myself and redefine goals for the year.
I'm not a very spiritual person. I'm constantly yearning to feel that more in my life, since it seems that people get a lot of joy out of spirituality, but I just can't connect with it. Even doing this kind of reflective thing is hard for me. I'm not very introspective and I don't connect super well with my feelings or thoughts. It's definitely something I'm working on consistently.
Nothing that comes immediately to mind. We've actually had several conversations about how this place is a wasteland for culture, which is very opposite to the town we fell in love with. We did get to go to an amazing museum in what used to be the butthole of Arkansas, Fayetteville. Since I was a teen, things have changed there drastically and the Crystal Bridges museum was a delight, but it made us sad. Denton claims to be such an art town, but our arts center is a joke compared to this place. Also, Chicago is amazing and we found more arts and culture in their airport than you can find in a museum in Denton. It's these little tastes of God that we get out in the world that make us realize how much we are missing outo n by staying where we feel comfortable.
I haven’t had any that I can think of.
The most "spiritual" experience I've had would boil down to the following: 1. Experiencing deep meditation (seeing different colors during the brief period I've meditated and experiencing sincere connection with the breath) 2. Seeing the stars in Iguazu Falls from the hotel; it reminded me of my experience in Big Sur
I had another nice high holidays service this year and I continue to be impressed. I thought my dads funeral service was beautiful and the outpouring of support made me realize what an amazing man he was and how many friends we have in time of need.
My answer is the same as last year. Meeting my bashert was like someone turning on the lights and I suddenly realized I had been living in the dark. Meeting my bashert was such an amazing experience. I saw him and something inside of my clicked into place. I feel like my soul knew his before we had said a word to each other. I will never forget that moment or that night. We talked all night about nothing and everything. He is my best friend, he is my bashert, he is my light in the darkness.
I had spiritual experiences on my visit to Iceland. What vistas! The sights were so unlike what I am used to seeing. The landscape is other-world-like. Seeing volcanic structures, waterfalls, glaciers made me think of course there is a force greater than ourselves.
It's been interesting to reconnect with astrology this year. More as a way of deciphering personalities and how they get there than anything prescriptive. It's also interesting to see how collective energy affects us all -- how spookily accurate certain moments are within the lives of people around me. It's also been great to go out and see more music and art. That's been sorely lacking in my life the last few years, and is increasingly important to my well-being.
In an attempt to be more quite, more focused and more present - I feel that I am moving through the world with more purpose, ease and excitement- and my yoga practice has really helped me find this higher vibration. My mantra being breathe in patience, breathe out grace - so I guess in the grand scheme of things this is a very spiritual place for me to be and I hope to continue the journey and see what other discoveries I might uncover!
No. But that doesn't mean that they didn't happen to me. Staying sober for one year is a miracle. My mind is so twisted that staying sober for even a day is a miracle equivalent to the stigmata. Modern spirituality boggles me. I feel as though we live in a world that is incongruously rational. We pick and choose when facts and figures suit us. There is no room for speculation, challenging thought, or questioning convention. What I mean by that is- challenging the status quo has no become associated with "liberal" or "alt-right" thinking. Questioning the ways things are is a radical idea and has a negative connotation. Spirituality, for me, is elusive. I don't like to think about it much, because I usually somehow spin the conversation back to the question, "Why am I here?" There is a big I in the center of that thought. My ego gets in the way of me finding inner peace with a creator, god, universe, whatever you want to call it. I like to think I'm open minded about spirituality, but- speaking as a man of extremes who is attempting to now live in shades of grey- I'm decidedly against religion because of my upbringing. When I read the word "spirituality" I cringe. Hopefully though, I will be more open to it.
At the Women's March in January, I had the amazing experience of being around literally hundreds of thousands of like-minded individuals in addition to my dear friends with whom I traveled. I have never seen anything like it.
I don't think so. I do feel like there are times when I am alone at home and I feel particularly moved when thinking about my mom, or Lauren or my family.
Every day is a spiritual experience for me. I feel God's presence constantly. But, I got to watch some instances happen to my son this year where divine intervention was definitely in play. That was really cool. I don't know if my son noticed it for what it was but it was a clear signal to me that he is being well taken care of.
I had an incredible spiritual trip to Israel. We started in the Negev and wound through parts of Israel. We sang, chanted and prayed, and the group developed a deep trust and affection for each other. Truly a life altering experience. We continue to meet on a periodic basis. Many have started a compassion course.
I have come to realize and value the deep, deep beauty of Jewish texts. This has made me very grateful and appreciative.
I've been searching for inspiration this past year - something to comfort me in the wake of Donald Trump and his administration. Only recently, I was turned on to the videos and lessons at AlephBeta. Their series on Rosh Hashanah was incredibly inspirational to me, and really made me feel close to G-D at a time when I was longing for that feeling.
Moments of utter surrender, of immersion, of flow are among the most wonderful of states of mind. I have had them when writing, when contemplating natural beauty, when laughing.
Camp Neshama. Being up in Big Bear, with fellow Jewish young professionals, was the spiritual experience I needed this year. I reconnected to myself, to Judaism, to the mtns, and I made some really valuable friendships.
I have become part of a Quaker meeting at which I feel home. The silence speaks to me.
Other than continually being challenged by my husband's DID diagnosis, no. His behaviors that are emerging under the stress of discovering this are really trying my patience and exacerbating my anxiety. I do love him with all my heart, but it is taxing. I am looking for my own therapist, trying to remember to practice mindfulness, etc. That is my main spiritual practice, loving-kindness.
In a religious sense, since I've been in Ithaca I have started going to services every week. But on a secular note, I have been trying to connect spiritually to a variety of things. I try to take a moment every evening to stop and admire the sunset, or I go on hikes to appreciate nature, or I call up a friend to have a philosophical conversation. Spirituality shouldn't be defined solely by religious experiences, but we should try to find spirituality in the mundane experiences as well.
Giving birth to my son was incredible. It was the birth I always wanted and I feel so lucky to have had it. There is nothing more powerful than giving birth. I was completely vulnerable, powerless, and inside of myself. Time moved quickly and slowly all at once. Physically, I felt like I was tearing apart. Mentally, I felt like I was moving a mountain. Then there he was. On my chest. A part of me that I loved so dearly was earth side. I could look into his face. Hear his voice. It was beautiful but also devastating. It was the last time I would ever carry and grow a human being in my body.
I've been working on self-care and this has been a spiritual transformation.
My yoga teacher training has been very 'spiritual' to me - by that, I mean it has helped me better understand myself and feel a stronger connection with all other beings. It is making me kinder (I hope) and happier, through gratitude.
Spiritual is an interesting, and loaded term, that said. I have definitely experienced something akin to this in meditation. I took the week long tm meditation course and it has really helped when I've made time for it. I find it helps w/ my anxiety, energy levels if i'm tired and maybe improves the clarity of my thinking. It's very helpful when I can't or don't want to go for a run for example.
If you count the art of decluttering your life (not in a material sense)spiritual, then yes, I have. I want to be able to live the best life I can on any given day. My best won't be the same every day, and some days will be a struggle, but I want to be able to live each day being able to look myself in the mirror and be okay, and often better than okay, with the day and with who I am on that day.
Hmm.. it's hard to say if anything was spiritual but I definitely had moments of awe when we were in Sedona and at the Grand Canyon. Those places tend to remind me that there is something much greater than myself. I love the moments of awe. They keep me grounded.
One lasting experience has been the slow surrender of who my son is and my relationship with him. It has been painful and a struggle and out of this experience i am learning to love him and myself in a way that wasn't available to me before. My attachment and control is being chipped away slowly but surely and the benefit of that is less suffering around this area of my life.
Oh, I got my spiritual wakeup call on the Amtrak on 9/10. People who had sat behind me on the plane from Krakow to Frankfurt appeared on my Amtrak - as I was heading to a conference for the organization that took me to Krakow. I literally couldn't get off of the train fast enough, it freaked me out that badly. I was shaking but it made me open my mind because I felt the lines of communication open ...
I would like to say yes, but right now, I am feeling less spiritual than ever. Chuck got the job he has always wanted. The Schramm's are headed to Hawaii for two weeks. I am headed to work, and apparently not doing to good of a job. I try to pray everyday, I tried to go to mass everyday. Neither is or has helped in anyway I can see. My health really deteriorated over the summer. I still overeat whenever I can. I have no spendable income. I am not accomplishing any of my goals. I did get to go to upper Michigan and Door County as well as Great Wolf Lodge, but I used up all my money. If I never do anything, I never see anything. If I do something, I have nothing.
Music has been great. Working with my different bands has shown me that I'm a good team player. There was a moment at Grey Fox this summer when Mike and I were dancing to "Just When You Think It Can't No Better" and we were in our own little world. It was really magical.
nothing to see here....
I had an incredible series of events this past year - I accepted that fact that I am needing to be part of a spiritual network of people that understand deeply the nature of spirit that is described in the bible and even more so in the Kabbalah. These experiences are hard to describe and easier to feel. I learned to be open to ideas such as past lives, reincarnation, Reiki energy and so on. I learned to listen more deeply and not allow self-judgment to be a driving force in my days or life. All of this ultimately culminated in to a powerful Mikvah ceremony that was supported by some powerful individuals. It ultimately happened at the final hours of the first day of Rosh Hashanah- and finished with the blowing of a shofar- It am still processing this event and have much to think about and little to say as it is still at the feeling stage of understanding.
Not really...BUT if I happen to get a job offer in the next few days I made a vow that I'd fast and go to temple for Yom Kippur services (I'm not Jewish, but my wife is)
Seeing the eclipse was pretty amazing. It felt like the sky opened up. It felt like seeing something human beings aren't supposed to see--a secret into the universe. It felt like more proof of the oneness of the world, of God. I was far more affected by it than I thought I would be. And it was pure AWE. I feel like when awe is there, all other emotions, all sense of self, completely disappears. Only awe remains.
just reading the bible more...finding the recurrent themes and wisdom. turning to KLOVE and AM christian radio so i can actively avoid the nonsense of present day america. figuring out how to rectify christian faith with my reality.
The moment my son made his entry into this world. I heard his cries, and he was immediately put on my chest. Seeing him, meeting him for the first time was truly spiritual. This experience made me feel connected to all of humanity. Everyone on earth has gone through this experience. Knowing what woman are capable of enduring, is truly remarkable. Just thinking about the memory of seeing my son peer up at me with his bright round eyes, his small newborn striped cap pointed atop his head, his skin still smeared with the substances of birth, brings tears to my eyes. It is a moment I will never forget.
As an atheist this question always stumps me. But a related topic might be that I took up yoga and meditation this past year. I feel happier. I also had a bad concussion that shock up my brain, so there's that.
Being in the club in LA with Max, and feeling the purest appreciation for him. And making friends with the other sibling party. <3
I learned how to love unconditionally and be loved.
I am done with spiritual shit.
While this year seemed particularly absent of "spiritual experiences" I did enjoy celebrating Passover with my sister Stacy. The past several years I have lead Seders for my friends, where I was the only Jew present. It was really good for my soul to be able to celebrate with Stacy, as she knew all of the rituals and songs (as a matter of muscle memory). She and I are probably the most secular out of my siblings, but we both look fondly at our cultural upbringing, and this was a great opportunity for nostalgia.
I moved to a new place and have found many classes and conversations in which input is shared by all. Much of it is spiritual. Meeting new people with diverse backgrounds is spiritual. There's so much to learn.
I have been going to Unity for a little over a year now. I find that I am being introduced to more spiritual concepts and ideas. I am learning that I need to change my crowd. I am not hanging out with many of the people from some 12 step programs I use to attend because I am not being nurtured and they are not interested in what I have to offer. You might say I am trying to find my people and my place.
Two events have impacted me spiritually: 1) I shared a swing with my new friends, Will and Julie, on Sat. nite of our 50th Oberlin Reunion. It had rained. Normally Tappan Square is bustling with people. It wasn't. We shared information about Will's health, care giving and enduring treatment and its side effects. It was a magical evening. 2) On a hike in Sept. up the Granite Basin Lake trail towards the lower saddle, I arrived at the place where a burn had occurred over 20 years ago. Nancy and I observed the burn and the changes in the environment over the years she was alive. It was also on this hike, she visited me about 6-7 weeks after she passed. She told me everything would be fine. This time, I thanked her for our time together; apologized for things I did or didn't do that caused her pain and said it was time for me to let go of her and to move on. I felt like she heard me.
I want to do better in the area of help and love your neighbor, I want to see good in everyone as well as everything. I hope to define my own place in the world and how I will except each person were they are without judgment...
My spiritual experiences this year have taken place during times I have spent with a friend. Sometimes when we are talking together about her health, we look deeply into each other's eyes without saying anything and I feel she is wanting to help me and I am wanting to help her at the same time. It makes me feel very peaceful, even though I am sad. I hope it is the same for her. Another time we were walking a trail by a lake and came to a bench near a dam and I suggested that we sit down for a bit by the water. After a while, a large heron lifted up from the shoreline and flew up to a branch. Again, a moment of peacefulness and connectedness. I consider these to be spiritual moments.
It depends. After converting last year, it feels different, as in the "journey" as it was is over, and I'm just a regular Jew like anyone else in my shul. However, outside of that... I've seen a lot of "coincidences" pop up in my life. I don't actually believe in coincidences, as that's just random happenstance. I think everything is actually connected, and when I think I'm getting things right, I seem to notice them more, a sort of thumbs up that I'm going in the right direction.
Not really. I've read books that have moved me, that have granted meaning, but nothing earth-shattering. Eye-opening, and me-bettering is all. That's enough.
I can't say I've had an particularly spritual experiences, but as I became a grandma, I've been thinking more and more often of Grandma Tybe. I come from a long line of strong family-centric women. I wonder often about the legacy I'll leave. I'm knitting, so the next generation will be surr,ounded by the stitches of my love. I educate because if I support young people to have faith in themselves, to push themselves to be their best, to open up perspectives so they value kindness, then I have lead a life worth living.
The western wall was pretty nuts, but honestly, the guy who blessed me on the train to Herzliya was more spiritual. A random rabbi who wished me good health. A jew amongst other jews. It was a wild moment. It made me feel more at home than I had ever felt.
This year has been spectularily un-spiritual. There were chances but it has all be about "getting it done" - moving to the next step - what do I need to do NOW
learning and started to practice mediation I have been able to infuse the practice of meditation when I daven and this has heightened my davening expierence.
No, but I did find the eclipse awe-inspiring, and seeing it with my sweetie made it that much better; he hadn't expected to care and expressed a few variations on "what's the big deal anyway?" - and wound up sitting there transfixed.
I became willing to redefine Gd from the traditional image of an all-knowing parent. That concept left me disappointed and distrusting. I have more of a Reconstructionist sense of my Higher Power as Forces of Nature. I don't pray to them now, but I do conceptualize a power that may apply to a particular fear, worry, or obsession and ask myself whether I can trust that it will address my concern.
Living in Ghana was a lesson is being grateful for all the things I have and rejoicing in learning to live and accept the gifts that others bring to me. In so many ways living there felt like each day God whispered in my ear, "you have all you need and if you give of your best self that will be enough." It's easy to give out of your abundance, but Ghana taught me how to give even when I didn't think I had enough or knew enough. It helped me look at myself and the world in a totally different more positive an meaningful way.
This year I visited my family's graves and put sea shells on their headstones. Growing up, we used to go often to the ocean, and I feel as if whenever I am by the sea, I am in my spiritual home, connected to my family of origin. I have collected shells over the years, from places I have traveled that were important to me. I took some of those shells to the graves of my family members to close a circle. I wept painful sobs, especially for my mother, but it felt like a spiritually cleansing act.
On my birthday, I decided to try and be grateful for everything I possibly could be - for 18 hours, to be mindful of the history of all my possessions and how I came to possess them, of the extraordinary wealth of beauty that surrounds me constantly, of how much good fortune I experience every moment, and of how easily the most important parts of my life could disappear and how certainly they WILL disappear. It was absolutely glorious.
Way too many to count and how blessed I am to be able to say that. Sacred circle dance with women on a Greek island. I've visited China and a visit to Israel', dancing at two weddings in Kosovo and attending a birthday party in Ashland Oregon. And then there of been a quiet moments of walking in the sunshine or just sitting sipping coffee looking out at the Aegean Sea. Chopping it all off was the incredible joy I experienced when I watched my youngest son become engaged to be married.
Yes! I went to a meditation retreat center in Scandinavia - on one weeks notice/planning, to participate in the enviroment and an intense 3 day workshop with a focus on "New Beginning". It was amazing. Amazing allowing and pushing myself to be in hook, line and sinker. I wanted all the gifts and benefits and being all in - I think I left a bit of a different person. Someone there described it as my "White Essence" - the making it (the trip) happen.
I lost my faith but over the past few weeks I feel like I'm gaining it but totally different. I understand my limitations and I feel like I understand my faith differently. I feel like things are more symbolic than literal. And I hope to be strong in my faith again. Because that's when I'm happiest.
Spiritual experiences happen when I am on the bima leading or co-leading services, working with congregants at my pulpit or membership synagogue, or residents at the nursing home. I know before whom I stand. I am getting better at praying and singing with meaning.
I have been having new awarenesses recently that feel related to my own personal spiritual path. For one, I've realized that I am not as aware of my body as I once thought, and I'd like to remedy that by exploring more somatic-oriented meditations. Recently I heard a talk by Matt Kahn, where he makes the very good point that it is not our consciousnesses on a spiritual path, but rather our bodies. And the way to proceed is with incredible respect towards the body---honoring it's unique time table. So this is what I'm exploring now in my meditation and in life.
Meeting kevin and having him give me more than I can ask for. It's enlightening and I feel undeserving of the kind of support he's given me. My work with upstart has also been immensely spiritual and gratifying.
I connect with people in a way that isn't completely explainable. Sometimes even thinking about them and then having them show up. Other than that though, and besides the spiritual group I connect with, I really need to find my balance. And sense of calm. On a more regular basis.
I think I have gone through feeling bewildered that the Church in America, broadly speaking, supports someone like Trump/ I now though realize that it is not everyone and that many voices are raised in opposition. I am back to feeling such a strong sense of God there in my life.. enjoying this book study on the book of Galatians and feeling convicted- to love the poor- to find security and self in God's grace. It feels better in my soul now than a few months ago. I am taking more time in the mornings to read and write and pray- still small, but it feels good.
The first thing that comes to mind was the first time I attended the Contemplative Kabbalat Shabbat led by Estelle Frankel at Chochmat HaLev in Berkeley. I remember feeling overcome by the moment and bursting into tears when they sang Hallelujah in Hebrew. Overall I felt the power of the collective intentions in the room, it was electric. It felt like a really special place and moment and it was one of the first times, if not the first time, that I ever considered a religious community to feel like "home". I felt welcomed and instantly comfortable and go back whenever I can.
I had anbit of suffering because of a relationship that didn't work out. I go with the idea that G-d sends us what we can handle. So I am enduring and having faith that I can do it.
As I reflect on the past year, I don't recall any particularly "spiritual" experiences -- nothing that leaps out of my memory as being specifically powerful in the manner of Mom or Dad's deaths, or the births of the kids. What does seem more apparent, in a very low-key, almost insidious manner, is that I DON'T seem to feel the intensity of emotions, as I once did. The "sea of emotions" seems much more serene and peaceful as I've grown older. I periodically contemplate growing older, slower, less vital, and I'm not feeling the anxious fear that I had been so prevalent in the past. Is it fatigue? Resignation? I don't know. I think (or would like to believe), that I've been growing and internal sense of equanimity - a subtle confidence in my capacity to "surf the waves", to better tolerate and find something interesting or meaningful in experiences or feelings that used to evoke a 0-60 sense of fear and panic. Now, not to much ... in fact, very little. I think I'm feeling some pride in that.
Actually, I was having a really horrible day two days prior to Rosh Hashanah this year. My car broke down, and we found out that we couldn't fix it. A bee attacked me while I was waiting for someone to pick me up. My phone broke right after my car broke down, so I had trouble reaching anyone to help me. It was a really bad day. But, that morning after, I woke up singing Modeh Ani, and it put me in a really good mood. The day after that, Rosh Hashanah morning services opened with the song Modeh Ani, and it was just this moment of relief. I knew God had heard my struggle, and I knew that he had my back. I was so moved and so pleased.
The moment when I was rushing to the hospital, and dad had crashed and I stopped at the stop light. All the panic had drained from my body and I felt totally at peace. That was when I knew he was gone and that feeling was him telling me everything would be okay. That was the feeling I had; that everything would be okay. I had never experienced anything like it.
A particularly spiritual moment for me this year was watching the sunrise across the mountains of eastern Myanmar, where the beautiful Inle Lake turned into a sea of glass. Cutting through the water in the motorized canoe with gulls flying in arms reach over head and balloons being launched off the far banks of the lake. And then the Intha fisherman began their graceful dance with their nets, peddling their oars with their feet. I think its the most beautiful place I've been to in the world.
This is not really spiritual but it is personal growth... I come to understand myself and my relationship with my husband and other people I am close to better this year through reading a book about adult attachment. I have an anxious attachment style which means I worry more then most people about any perceived threats to my relationships and feel much more acutely the pain of being in conflict or disconnected from those I hold dear. Understanding this will hopefully help me start to challenge those worrisome thoughts when they crop up and also help my husband to provide me extra reassurance when I start to feel disconnected.
I had many spiritual experiences in the musical and outdoors ream. I went to a music festival and walked around (sober) and felt content with life. I also went on a monthlong wilderness trip and realized truths about self-dependency, leadership and real happiness.
YES. I keep going in and out of being awake to reality. But It keeps finding me, I keep crawling back to It. Some cool things with southern accents, driving with Mick practicing Sam Sheppard, behind a car that said Sam Yes, then he looked up and saw a Sam sign right next to both cars. Beautiful beautiful synchronicities.
The trip to Israel in December 2016 with the whole family was a pretty special experience. Just being there feels different. An inexplicable connection to the people, the food, the music, the language, the land. There were spiritual moments. Being on the dome of the Rock - all six of us - was powerful. Us all putting up with the tour guide or whatever his name was - the day he FORGOT TO FACTOR IN LUNCH AND TRANSPORTATION TIME, was hilarious, looking back. I'm really fortunate for my family. Feel very lucky to share those experiences together.
Going to Readefest and getting fired in Fresno, I think. I found where Rob and I should move, got to spend sometime with some really great friends, and show one of them what the world was like when she wasn't in a toxic environment. The world is going to change next week as a result. I have no idea what is going to happen, but whatever it is, it's gonna be different!
I had a couple major cases of De Ja Vu recently. I don't know if that is spiritual but I believe that it is a good sign. Sort of like, I've lived this in a dream before so I know that I am manifesting my future. Sorta
My experience of life in general and spiritual. I have had the sense that all of us are existing on several layers of consciousness simultaneously. The eclipse was not a spiritual experience for me because I didn't really experience It.
Seeing Angles In America this past August in the National Theater was pretty much the most spiritual experience I’ve had in a very long time. Even now, a few months later I can’t stop thinking about it. And just a few days ago I actually got a tattoo that will forever remind me of that show.
This last year I have found the power of positivity thanks to a couple of old friends. We started messaging each other with five positive things in our life daily and I really believe it's changed my outlook, my feelings, and my life. I'm not perfect; I skip some days but overall I feel overwhelmingly happier and I recommend this to anyone who wants a positive change in their life.
When Rick moved here and we first were sleeping together and then verbally fighting and I was hollering and cursing so much, I stopped going to church because I felt like a hypocrite...I just didn't feel comfortable going. I continued to pray and love God but I was no longer myself and my self-esteem went down hill fast. Since Rodney has been in my life and been such a good friend and more to me my self-esteem has returned and he has helped me become closer to God again. We encourage one another in the Lord, we pray for one another, we do bible study and bible reading together. He is becoming the spiritual leader I have needed in my life for many years. I have not had this since Rudy and I were serving God together. I just ran into my pastor's wife at WM a couple of days ago and she opened up to me like a long lost friend. I did not realize that they not only want me back at church but she says they need me. I believe she felt a kindred spirit with me and recognizes that with all my flaws, I love the Lord and want to live right, and I pray and worship God and He answers my prayers. I did not know she/they felt this way about me. It was a blessing to learn this. Lord willing I will be back in church very soon.
This is always a difficult question for me since I rarely have any experiences I would consider spiritual, even allowing for 10Q's broad definition. But this year, I did something that qualifies under all their categories: my trip to England in late December to join almost 3000 Jews for a week at Limmud UK, where I was invited to give five presentations about the research behind my books. I also had time to attend sessions by some of the finest Jewish teachers and speakers in the world. However, some of my best experiences came in the cavernous dining hall, where I participated in discussions [or just overheard them] as I shared meals with some amazing scholars and students from Israel, Europe, and even Australia. It was a week of complete Jewish immersion, including celebrating Shabbat and Hanukah, with Jews of every observance level from Orthodox to secular. I guess it doesn't get more "spiritual" than that.
When all was lost, I turned to music and my writing for self-expression. My writing has become an art form of who I am. Also, being able to travel to other cities in Russia has made me realize that I can do anything, and that anything is possible. I was afraid at first (I had irrational fears of getting lost, kidnapped, mugged, etc.), but I was so surprised to have met such kind, generous, loving, warm, and overall good people along the way. I guess you can say that I had this spiritual awakening that the world isn't such a scary place, and that there will always be good people wherever I go.
Acid trip with my gf. Felt like we fused together. Shit was magical.
The most spiritual experiences this year have all involved animals - living creatures and dream spirits. Before this year, I had seen few deer up here. This year, I am seeing them all the time.....herds passing me while hiking who just stand and watch me, deer leaping across the street in front of me, a deer at the end of my street that seemed to be waiting for me. And, even more often, I see Roadrunners.....in my yard, the street, at my front door, as if they're trying to communicate with me.this year, I've felt my heart open again, and with it my trust in life it's sweetness returning. Maybe the deer sense that lightness. And, I think the Roadrunners are trying to tell me to get off my ass and start moving and living again.
I've returned to a church family. Honestly, I blame Donald Trump. He made me want to prove that there ARE good spiritual people out there - that you can be a caring, progressive, socially conscious individual AND identify with a church or religion. Going to church makes me emotional - sitting there in that familiar setting, hearing the music, surrounded by people. I feel this the same as I have at fire circles in the woods, with pagan friends, at new age events, at concerts when the music carries you to just that place. Spiritual for me is everywhere and I try to carry that inside me.
Having a baby and watching her grow, of course. But I think this will always be the answer. I wonder when I'll start to attribute spiritual experiences to just me again. Maybe I never will.
Some of the moments/realizations/transformations at the Metta retreat felt spiritual. Profound heart connections to certain loved ones during seated meditation, major moments of self awareness and insight, and the forgiveness/equanimity practice. Also there was that feeling as I stood in the middle of that fancy ocean front hotel suite on the Lost Coast that suddenly all of these material attachments were totally unnecessary and foolish and that I could easily and totally walk away from them forever (already had in some ways.) I chose not to stay there for long. It was actually kind of a terrifying feeling of being at the point of completely shedding a part of myself that I've always inhabited and which has defined me. It felt like a powerful glimpse into what is possible and what is already deeply there. Feels like just the beginning.
On the day before starting my first full day of work after 5 months of maternity leave I decided to spend as much quality time with my little one. We had a tough 5 months -- she had colic and cried a lot. She had a tough time napping and she was just emotionally and physically exhausting. There were many days both she and I cried together. That day I decided to put her in the carrier and just take a walk, which we both enjoyed. She seemed to also know it was a special day and napped easily in the carrier. We took an extra long walk. We spent time outside in the front yard on a blanket, and just really enjoyed each other. I had a feeling of such peace and gratitude for the time we had each other. I felt good in my decision to go back to work, and had a peace that she would be just fine without me. I very much felt that God was with us that day.
Cassini's mission to Saturn is now over; I remember when it arrived, and the Huygens probe landed on Titan. And it ended in the way that it did, taking a suicidal dive into the atmosphere of Saturn, because what it had found, what it had discovered--the potential for life on the moons--was too precious to risk the miniscule chance of contamination. So it died to protect what it had found, and in the moment when it died, we sent it the names of every man and woman who had worked on it. That is humanity at its best, and it is humbling.
Last year, I had the opportunity to attend a documentary event on the topic of body image and it definitely has prompted moments of clarity and self-awareness of the rest of the year. "Embrace" was a film about a mother who hated her body after having children, became a female body builder, and then had the realization that her image isn't what would make her happy or fulfilled. She traveled around the world sharing her messages with women and girls - no photoshopping, no body-shaming, no sexualization of girls, and more. Struggling with my own body image on a regular basis, this really resonated with me. The documentary featured so many women of different shapes, sizes, and colors...LOVING their bodies. The message was resounding - love yourself and the rest can just fall in to place.
Yes, I have had a few spiritual experiences this year. One was centered around nature and another with people. My partner and I had a road trip in May in which we visited the Central Coast of California. Spending time in the fog of Morrow Bay, listening to wild turkeys, and hearing the ocean in the distance - that was a moving and centering experience. I have participated in training events this year that has centered around social justice issues and results-based leadership. The conversations, the stories, and the study have helped me rediscover the power of human interaction and connection.
No, not really beyond feeling at one with my life and my wife.
I have felt more connected to God over the past year. I took a job working for The Salvation Army, which is a very religious, Catholic organization. I have been exposed to their prayers, which come often. In my own mind, I have started to take what they say and apply it to my own personal prayers and thoughts and Judaism. I have become more thankful of Judaism because of this. Additionally, I have found clarity from my yoga practice, which is very spiritual for me.
Yes, I have had some spiritual experiences this year - namely deciding that I should not have children. It was something I decided in the rain forest of Australia. Looking out at the vast slice of nature and realizing our planet is in deep trouble. Many humans disregard the planet and I don't want to be one of them. One of the best ways to reduce your carbon footprint is to not reproduce. If I want to really have a child, I will adopt.
Swinging in a hammock with a surge of belief felt spiritual. I'm still not sure how it's affected me.
When I went to the Kotel with my grade, I felt my connection to my bar-mitzvah from the year before and the wind of God and prayer.
I guess the spiritual experience for me would be the effect the passing of my Brother and sister has had on me. Being the youngest by more than a decade , I always felt I would last longer than them , but I didn't think I would lose them both so close together. We were close, and I always felt their love for me, so knowing they are gone leaves a empty feeling in my heart. Going to my brother's house to bring back some of my brother's memories was hard, and I had to stay an extra day just because I didn't want to leave yet. It didn't seem real that they were both gone. Again, the felling of your own mortality hits me.
Being able to light Friday night candles in my new home with my girlfriend has been a repeated delight. We use a kiddish cup and shabbat candle holders. The whole 9 yards. Debbie is so cute wanting to sing in harmony and promising during the prayers we'll work on this. I am just so happy and positive in part because of how much my deeply Jewish enrichment is expanding as I have the chance to share shabbat with someone so kickass as Debbie
I can't say that I have. my life remains on a steady course. I work, I spend time with my mom and grandson. I take care of a billion animals! and I just live life as it comes!
I have a lot of spiritual experiences. I search them out. I believe that they inspire me to be a better person, to look to serve and help other people, and to be kinder and more understanding.
GRJ - Grassroots Jews. It is the first time I can remember, as an adult and more importantly as a feminist adult, hearing a woman reading from the Torah. It made me well up, I felt so overcome with emotion. It was beautiful and I was so moved by seeing and hearing and feeling represented by a woman leading. It was wonderful.
YES! My children, my family, my friends...seeing my children grow up without the stress or strain that I had at their age is the greatest gift. I did not think it would matter so much, but when I see them play without a care in the world, knowing their mom and dad are together in their house to protect them and love them, it's the best. Furthermore, hiking in nature, connecting with nature makes me so happy.
Experiencing my artistic skills come back in practice, flowing trustful in the midst of my angst and doubt. G-d gave me this gift, it is my duty and joy to re-develop it and share as my highest expression. Experiencing my son bend the guitar strings in total concentration of the fibre of his being, hearing the chords of the universe and playing his own niggun.
I've been more aware of my estrangement from my formal religion. I'm okay with not being a cookie cutter Catholic. I am struggling with missing being a part of a worship community. I can simply go to Mass but, I 'm not ready. My faith is intact but what that means is still in formation.
I am now, at least in the eyes of Reform Judaism, an official Jew. I feel blessed with the wonderful people in my congregation and am reveling in the unusual feeling of belonging.
My most spiritual friend was murdered. It has been hard to imagine there is any greater power governing these events. The world feels rather random and cruel to me these days.
I think my most spiritual experience this year was hiking and traveling in Scotland. I felt a connection to the stark beauty of the landscape that I haven't felt in a long time. I had also been training for the hiking trip as part of a longer-than-expected recuperation from a broken elbow and subsequent "frozen shoulder" from an accident almost a fully year prior. So being strong and fit enough to climb, to push my body, while being encouraged by my traveling partner, one of my closest friends, in this astounding landscape, moved me more than I had expected. Also - when we arrived in Edinburgh, a wonderful city, at the end of the trip I realized I was kind of done with tourism in cities, which I more often do. It just couldn't compare to the Scottish highlands and islands, even in the rain. I thought I was just going on a fun vacation, but I was truly transported by the way I was able to experience and move through the landscape in Scotland, and also by the warm and generous company of two different friends.
I think the most I felt like I was in church was at Trinity College in the Long Room. I wanted to stay there forever.
I can't think of one experience in particular. I know there have been many. I've encountered a lot of grace. So choosing just one feels like an incomplete answer. But maybe this one: being the officiant at Karen and Ben's wedding. As I stood up there with them, I was struck by how normal I felt, how far from tears (though I cried later). But we were doing such a big thing together. They were doing one of the biggest things two people can, and I was helping them. For a little while that morning, the impossible came a little closer. I had faith then. I still do.
No.
I've had spiritual experiences every time I take a walk in the park, look up at the sky or see trees.
I have thought a lot about spirituality this past year. Listening to the On Being podcast feels like going to church or temple and conjures up some interesting questions and ideas that I have enjoyed pondering. Particularly spiritual experiences that I can remember include driving through the Badlands at sunset, the fog clearing to reveal the Tetons, dancing with my cohort at the AirBnB in the Bay Area, the Watson Summit and feeling connected to all the scholars there. I would like to look into ways to join a spiritual community of some sort moving forward.
No, not really. More travelling. Being on a beach with no one else around was nice but I wouldn't call it a life-changing moment.
I have had trouble with answering this question for a few days so I am noting that here and moving on. I am intrigued by my difficulty in answering this, and I hope this prompts me to consider what spirituality means for me in my life over the next year.
LSD. When bearing all this pain gets too be too much, I choose one night to experience limitless unbounded love and find that beauty still exists, and artists still create it. See that we are the life force of the universe and we seem to be eternal. It is so real while under the experience that even now being sober I can't bring myself to deny it or attribute it only to the chemical substance. We are here to experience this, all of this, the good and the bad. The love and the fear. Why? I still don't know, but it has meaning then. And you feel the pure emotion of striving for goodness and strength for the sake of others whom you love. It is all about love. Love is what makes it all worth it and bearable. Still we feel unworthy of it, we mask ours and deny what's given. But every so often a little escapes and it makes the world a better place. Our nature is love, but we are in a state of ignorance which gives rise to the reality we are living in. Fear is always an illusion, but so persuasive. I still struggle with it. But my development and spiritual growth includes the practice of meditation and the sporadic use of psychedelics. It is high time we learn to value the potential they offer our species to transcend our old ways. Consider this.
One spiritual experience this year (technically a few experiences that feel like one experience) was feeling called on a spiritual level to fight climate change. One example of this is the calling I felt during and after watching Al Gore's new climate change documentary, An Inconvenient Sequel. I stood in the sun outside the theater afterwards and felt deep in my bones that this (building a truly sustainable world free from the threat of climate change and other environmental horrors) is what I was meant to do, that it is my calling. It made me understand religious people who say that they are vessels for God's will; I felt in that moment like a vessel, honored to put my energies into one specific cause, and as a result felt immense joy and purpose. It was an incredibly powerful and beautiful feeling: that (aside from what I spend on loved ones/personal relationships) I want to spend everything I've got on this. Similarly, a few weeks later I was reading The Fierce Urgency of Now (a book about LBJ, Congress, and the Great Society) at the gym and got choked up reading about how LBJ worked so hard, so successfully to accomplish such wonderful and important things. Again, I felt the spiritual calling: this is what I will do; this is what I am drawn towards; this is where I will put all of myself. These spiritual experiences remind me of a Hasidic proverb from the bottom of those quote pages that Mom used to give me, which I tore off and put on my corkboard at her house: "Everyone should carefully observe which way his heart draws him, and then choose that way with all his strength.” My spiritual experiences this year helped me feel that draw and my choosing of it in a very powerful way.
Learning to really believe in the power of letting go. Finding the power in art; in poetry, in fiction, in paintings and other fine arts. Making things instead of worrying about things. All of these things have made me kinder, less anxious, more compassionate and more connected.
I got to go to Israel with my husband and my Wexner class this past July. I wrote the graduation ceremony for my Wexner class and stood on the stage at the Peres center to sing the brachot of my ceremony. It was like rebirthing a part of myself. What a joyous experience for me, to regain myself in front of 200 people. I also got to have lunch at Dr. Shakshuka in Tel Aviv-Yaffo, which was divine.
Spiritual experiences... Maybe the closest thing would have been giving birth to my son. Labour is hard to explain, and I’m not sure I totally trust my memories of it. It was painful, no doubt. Yet there was something - spiritual, primal? - about surrendering to the process, and having Mark there next to me, and letting my body do what it needed to do, and then all of a sudden there was a tiny baby! That had grown in my tummy! And then the moments and hours afterwards where we lay around just gazing at him and cuddling him, in our little baby bubble... it was pretty special.
The production of THE ODYSSEY at Oregon Shakespeare Festival was uplifting, magical, and provocative. I was delirious for a few days after seeing the production. I still think of it and say, "Wow!" The magic of theatre, poetry, music, and dance uplifts and transforms the human spirit and I am enriched by the experience. Hamilton! Henry IV parts 1 & 2! Something Rotten! I love theatre.
I have not, and I am missing this.
No.
I have experienced a deepening of my faith and spiritual practice. There has not been many "ah hah!" lightening moments. Rather, it's been a gradual, profound deepening that I simply experience, a resting in God.
The most eye-opening, spiritual experience I had this year was being part of the Women's March in Washington, D.C. There was a sense of belonging, of peacefully gathering the forces. It was refreshing to see so many people expressing the hurt and frustration I too had felt, and profoundly eye-opening to see the people who were struggling with more issues than I in my privilege had had to consider. It was a renewing source of energy and simultaneously a challenge to grow.
I've had a voice I could hear telling me "You can do this!" that's spiritual to me.
I can't really think of anything, aside from the wedding. Marilyn saying we should get married now, deciding to get married in New York ... all of that has been pretty moving. Speaking of moving, having water damage and needing to re-pipe the house and move out for six week was quite an experience.
My mom passed away. She was in hospice care for 6 days before she died, giving me plenty of time to think. Trying to understand if there is some other, greater, power. So the answer I came up with is no. All there is is the here and now. That is a big spiritual awakening. What you have is what you have right now, so make it good and peaceful and loving for you and all around you right now. There is nothing else.
My dear friend Jimmie said he wanted his ashes to be spread at a Phish show. Several months after he passed, his mom reached out and asked me to please take some of his ashes. She gave me a urn to keep and a small baggie of his ashes to spread at the next Phish show I attended. I had purchased tickets for one of the thirteen shows the band was playing at Madison Square Garden that summer - called the Baker's Dozen; I had purchased 4 tickets for the July 30th show in the early spring. The day of each show, the band announced a flavor of donut that would be the theme of that night's show. For example, the Boston Cream donut night Phish played "Sunshine of Your Feeling" - a mash of Cream and Boston songs. Or on Lemon donut night they performed a cover of "Everything In it's Right Place" by Radiohead which has lyrics about sucking on a lemon. On the morning of the Phish show I saw the band's post on Facebook announcing that night's show donut flavor - Jimmie's. I know Jimmie didn't believe in God, and thought everything that seemed connected was really just a coincidence. But to me, it was meant to be that Jimmie's ashes were first sprinkled at a Phish show when his name was used as the them. I had been plagued with guilt for not speaking to him for a few years, not doing or saying more when I believed something was off with him right before he died, and also my heart was still just broken over the loss of my dear friend. But, by scattering his ashes I honored not only him, but the connection that he and I shared - which was truly based on Phish - and I knew that made him, wherever he was, very happy.
Getting involved in writing an telling stories- I've met a wonderful community of people and gotten to exorcise some demons. It allows me to create and perform without the commitment of doing a play.
We started brewing kombucha. Is scoby spiritual? The essence of life?
This year I converted to Judaism. Immersing in the Mikvah while saying the blessings is the most interesting and important spiritual experience I've had this year. It felt incredible to feel myself literally immersed as I became a Jew and became immersed in Jewish life.
I’ve never had more spiritiual experiences than I have this past year. Every breath is a spiritual experience. Every sunrise, sunset, glimpse of the moon, every kiss - but most of us simply aren’t paying attention. Finally starting to get that everything is a spiritual experience if you are conscious, if you are breathing then it’s spiritual. I used to think spiritual meant Jewish, because that’s how I felt my parents, my teachers and my family wanted me to connect. But really, I realized that spirituality is in the hands of the spirit having the experience. Life is full of spiritual experiences we just don’t pay attention
everyday is a spiritual experience. everyday that I wake up, see my son, breathe in and breathe out it's a miracle and a blessing.
I’m not a spiritual person. I don’t see spirituality in things like art or culture.
Teaching at a Jewish community day school this year has reinvigorated an appreciation for my Jewish heritage and culture. The weekly Friday afternoon tefillah service with my little second graders is truly a spiritual time I look forward to each week. It is a precious moment amongst the chaos of my week to pause, reflect and appreciate the present.
Not really. I believe in an order to the universe. I don't really know how I feel about the concept of God. I do not feel close to any religion, except for maybe Buddhism, and I have a curiosity about Judaism. I don't know. Basically the answer is no. Really, this year has been about me as a human and actually living my own life, versus being concerned about a higher power. I figure that will come eventually. No need to force it.
I went to church and didn't self harm!!!!! That was a renewal of my spirituality at its finest
I've been meditating on my own and with a local Buddhist Center. Taken some classes. This helps me strive for being a better person and realizing nothing is permanent. Plus, going to a welcoming Reform shul. Outside services. I feel close to HaShem.
I remember almost breaking down and crying in the Montreal Muesum of Art. I was in the Romanticism area and couldn't stop staring at this one painting. The artist had used color in such a way to evoke a world that didn't exist, but that I wanted to exist dearly. I'm not sure why this had such an impact on me. Perhaps I knew there could be something more out there and I knew that I couldn't get to it without some hard changes. Perhaps I knew this romantic world could never exist, except in dreams and visions. It is also possible that I was merely sad, sad I who I had become and at the choices I have made for myself. Sad I can't let the good in the world flow through me.
My most spiritual experience this past year was the birth of my son. During my labor I felt that I had gaurdian angels watchig over us and working really hard to protect me and my son. It was awe inspiring and extremely humbling.
No. It has been another difficult year.
My treasure chest moments with God. Wish I could relive those when I'm down. Times when I've spoken to Him, even woken up talking to Him in the middle of the night, special songs that came on that He blessed me with and touched my heart with. Even His rebukes...those are His hand imprints on my vessel that shows I'm legitimately His and so I treasure them. Times when I have felt Him smile on me, when He "catches me" doing the right thing - love that. My prayer/worship walks, and when I feel Him receive my worship of Him. When I've read scripture or heard a sermon and He touched me with something, like He spoke to my heart, or when He's opened the scripture to me. Those times and more are all part of my treasure/hope chest.
Not necessarily spiritual, but I do feel reconnected to my Judaism in a different way. Leaving the Jewish community in a professional manner has allowed me to reclaim Judaism for myself, and practice my faith and my beliefs in a way that works for me, not a way that works for my donors or constituents. It's really freeing to be Jewish and active in the Jewish community just for me, and I am excited what this next year will bring.
Yes. When I went to Israel and visited Jerusalem and the Western Wall, I felt a very deep connection with Israel, God, and my faith in life. I wrote many notes of blessings and all of them came true (so far...) I really honestly believe i am on this path for a reason and every challenge I encounter is to make me stronger. Going to Israel with my daughter and husband was a huge deal for all of us and the fact that we made it and I got closer to my daughter as a result, makes me so happy and content.
I don't think I've had a particularly spiritual experience this year. Nothing's coming to me.
The cancer death watch is the antithesis of spiritual ~ you go so far to the depth of pain, desperation, and the tiniest things become wonders. A small joy that allows you to forget the path that your loved one is on as you get caught up in the quotidian necessities to get thru the day or night. It isn't the death but the ugliness of colon cancer that makes you really see what evil is.
deep feeling of what pachamaama feels through my own body and a felt knowing and mourning for the experience women have gone through for centuries..and even my own ways that I suppressed my own feminine
I've spent a lot of time listening to Leonard Cohen's last albums this past year. His death, announced a few days after Trump's election, hit me hard. He's always been one of my favorite artists in part because of his Jewishness and the way he both struggled with and embraced religion in his life. His couple of albums address the themes of mortality and aging at a time when those issues have weighed heavily on my mind. He was just a year younger than my parents and I know that they too will be gone sooner rather than later and that my own life is past its halfway point. Time becomes ever more precious as you grow older and the desire to do something meaningful with your own remaining years grows more poignant. I admire that Cohen was creative to the end, finding ways to work around his pain to produce his albums and put his thoughts into writing and music. I just wish he had longer.
So this implies separating the spiritual from the temporal. Since I often find spiritual meaning in seemingly mundane tasks, I reckon the answer is no... and yes.
Hearing Bhikkhu Bodhi talk after the "Walk to Feed the Hungry" offered me a glimpse of spirituality. I just don't know how to hold on.
I've been staring at this question for three days and still couldn't come up with an answer for it. Part of me feels vaguely troubled by this--have I not appreciated a beautiful vista, seen a concert or a play, or felt creatively inspired?--but the larger part of me speaks soothingly and says 'You were a mother of an infant this last year. It is ok.' There were few grasped moments here and there--writing letters on a bluff in Alaska, taking my son out to the park to listen to the marching band--but nothing that stood out as magical or profound. Perhaps I should've taken a few more moments to appreciate a nice view. I think it's an area to re-cultivate this year, a field that had been left fallow.
I've reconnected with being on a motorcycle and how it impacts my relationships. The camaraderie I feel with people when riding has helped when I'm struggling at times.
When my friend lost her son, who was the same age as my precious younger daughter, I began to look for signs of an afterlife. My friend is Christian and I am a Jew, but I started to long for the concept of a heaven where she would see her son again. This has been fairly troubling, because no matter how hard I try, my deep-seated belief is that people live on in others' thoughts and memories only. The Christian view of heaven is so appealing, and I see how much it helps her. I have joined her at church occasionally and I sometimes pray that her concept of heaven will be true, at least for her and her son.
After being devastated by not even making the first cut of my dream job at the time, I entered a downward spiral and just focused on getting through day to day. A book I had put on hold had become available at the library, which happened to be about being aligned with the universe and letting go the illusions of control. From there I encountered various meditation events, came upon random books seemingly so coincidentally, and had several "angels" come through in my life to offer me support and wisdom, like the clerk at my bookstore, the woman who sat next to me on the airplane, and the like. I've felt so blessed through this journey.
As I have been more exposed to Art and Music, enjoying them has often been a spiritual experience. Spending time with Rabbi Gershom Sizomu of Uganda was also an awakening, though it was more emotional than spiritual. Finally attending my step grandson Sam's Bar Mitzvah - he's autistic- was very moving.
I am a 2nd degree Reiki and am working on becoming a master. I have just been kind of following the path that is being lit for me. I continue my meditation. I am a work in progress.
Not really. I continue to work on my spirituality on a regular basis. But I am working on re-defining my beliefs. I was raised as a fundamentalist, but I have realized that is not where my heart and head is.
Spiritual? None.
I think I've had just a couple moments (or maybe even just one) of sitting meditation practice that have been transcendental in their quietness yet profundity. Otherwise, I thin much of this year—at least since January—and its spirituality has been characterized by or embedded in moments of real physical trials. In pushing through them and expanding my personal physical limits or capacity, I think I've found some semblance of calm, personal understanding.
This has not been my most spiritual year. I have been so mired down by exhaustion, frustration, and confusion that it hasn't left much space for spiritual connection. I often think about whether making some space for something spiritual would bring me some comfort, but can't find the space or the support. I have started doing some yoga, which I love but get to do so seldom.
Yes. It started with a trip to Vietnam. I was in bed, listeningredients to a really heavy rainstorm. I felt so cozy in bed. At some point, I got it in my head to start looking into witch craft. I didn't have my journal, so I couldn't write out my feelings. I just stewed over them until my trip was over, then I began. Thus far, it's been fun. I'm paying more attention to my dreams and my intuition. I've taken on a few new habits, like salting my door and burning candles. The best part is that I'm actually taking time to muse over and write out my ideas of who I am and ways I interpret reality. It good. It's a journey.
I have been attending spiritualist meetings - it has been a fascinating and sometimes uplifting experience
This year, I did more hiking and outdoors-ing than any year before, and I had a lot of moments of awe with nature. Sometimes they made me feel small (kind of cliche), and other times they just made me realize that being near nature is important to me. I'm going to list some so I don't forget: seeing Old Faithful explode, finally reaching Lake Serene, seeing a wild moose, walking through the fields of wildflowers in Tetons, making it to the top of Mount Constitution, hearing something sniffing at our tent the first night of Tetons backpacking (so scary), some beautiful Greenlake moments as always.
To me, falling in love has been spiritual because it's something so immense that words can't seem to encompass it, I have to trust in something intangible that has consumed my heart and mind. Every time I think that I have reached the peak of this feeling, it's dwarfed by what I feel the next day and the day after that. It's hard to write about without spiraling into cliches, but I will treasure and nurture this feeling to the full extent of my abilities.
Not really
This has been the first (couple of years) in my life, where church has diminished to the extent of only special occasions. I don't feel less spiritual, or even bad about it. I'm more cynical about the "big business" church. I'm still not sure where I fit in or how I will in the future. I mostly miss the social aspect of being at church, and those few moments of contemplation and solitude. However, I won't become a monk.
I have definitely had spiritual experience in this past year, especially in Japan. The traditions there are so beautiful, the cities so breathtaking. I think of all places I enjoyed Kyoto the most, and Kanazawa, where the spring season was still in full bloom. Sakura Festivities were so graceful and gorgeous, and people embodied the kind of respect that we think is impossible in the West. From the blessing in Nagano to the mountains up north and the Miyako Odori (which, man, I'm sobbing just thinking about it) and watching the sunset over the torii in Miyajima... I was so grateful to be able to see this country by myself, to get some peace of mind, to get back to what drives me, what inspires me. I felt whole on so many levels. I have more patience and fewer frustrations and all of that is thanks to beautiful Japan.
The closest thing to spiritual this year is that I am pregnant. I have babies growing inside of me, something I didn't think would happen and also, now that it is happening make me feel connected to something. I don't normally feel connected to anything, or anyone because of my PTSD. It makes me feel different about who I am and my purpose in life. If I am left to find my own purpose, I will continue to struggle, once that sense of purpose was extended to others, i.e. my babies inside me I feel more sure. I also tend to have purpose when caring for my dogs and cats. They are life forms that need love, affection, food, etc. and in return I need them for affection. I am not a person that only finds purpose in other people or things, but I do find most things meaningless if it is just me. I do not strive for things that others strive for, money, power, things. So my purpose has to come from work, hobbies, or other life forms. It also makes me think of this concept of getting outside of yourself, people recommend that you "serve" others, or volunteer, or do something not for yourself. My babies, my pets are the closest thing that I have to that and it does feel different as compared to any other thing that I have experienced so far in my life.
In the days after my dad died I started learning "Hallelujah" on ukulele. The line, "Maybe there's a God above" catches me every time now. I don't know if there is a God. I do believe there is something greater than us, some force at work more connected than each of us in our inidividuality. On Rosh Hashanah and soon on Yom Kippur the Mourner's Kaddish has new meaning for me. I don't feel more free as I thought I might, I feel a little more alone, more questioning but less doubt. In New York I carried my father's ashes as we walked from Brighton to Coney Island, to Randazzo's and L&B. We took him up the Empire State building and out to dinner. Riding around the city and the neighborhoods where I was born, where my parents met. It was different from any visit I've had to NYC before. I have felt, known, for so long that my father is more than his body. He didn't become less when he had the stroke but his body could no longer fulfill his potential. Carrying his ashes made things real. All the feelings I had about his being separate from his body were confirmed in hard reality. I believe now, more than ever, that there is something more to us, something that does not simply wink out of existence when we die.
In my online recovery group I become close friends with another member. We talk several times a week. After a few weeks I found out he was a minister. My spiritual life has been lacking for the last 20 years. Through our friendship he has guided me back to a healthy spiritual life and mind.
in israel, i went to the top of a mountain where i felt like i saw the whole world. it changed my life.
The 3 Principles. I will never be the same.
My "spiritual" experiences this past year have occured within and through nature. A hawk has circled over my home frequently this past summer and I learned to recognize her call. I would stand on my deck, cover my eyes from the sun, and watch her take flight from a nearby tree or circle in the sky above my house. In lifting my eyes to follow her movements, my heart was lifted as well. She brings me a sense of hope and optimism and if there is a higher being, she brings that to me as well.
This year was the second year that I went to Passover in the Desert (in Panamint Springs in California hosted by Wilderness Torah). This year I sat with a group that was studying a part of Talmud, and while I didn't understand the Hebrew the discussion about it has stuck with me as I have moved forward the rest of the year. This piece was saying that the Hebrews already had a belief of God in their minds, just because of who they were. The miracles brought the belief of God into their hearts, making them able to start moving toward freedom. But it wasn't until the belief of God was in their bones that they were able to cross the sea. This idea of belief being in your bones formed how I went about doing things the rest of the year, and even now. I have often heard New Age types talk about how you get back what you put out into the universe, and that phrasing has never done much for me. However, his language of feeling "in the bones" continues to resonate for me.
Watching the full eclipse with my parents and children and husband in Tennessee. Doing something so unique after moms treatment, knowing we may not have a lot of time left together, was emotional. Seeing her unexpected joy was a spiritual experience.
I don't think I have, which must mean that I haven't. Surely I'd remember. It's been such an odd year; it's hard for me to believe that I have so little deep thoughts to express, but perhaps it's a good thing. Maybe it means I'm finally in a good place, emotionally and mentally.
As with last year, the busier I get, the harder it is to find time to center and pray. That is my spiritual challenge of this moment in my life. I do feel like this is the challenge I'm intended to have. I feel like all of these opportunities have been given to me and it is right to take them, pursue them, and give as much as I can to them. This is the work I should be doing. And I also feel it is my responsibility to circle back and pray on all of it, and I struggle with that aspect. When I begin to pray sometimes I end up with almost a blank mind that just says, "Please!" or "Help!" But time and again, even if I've been very spiritually disconnected, when things have gotten to that impossibly hard place I've found a way to sit down and truly pray, and always quickly, almost instantly, I've been witness to the response. Whether it's working with difficult teenagers, or helping my students advance, finding a way through an impossible schedule, helping me to manage my obstinance and difficult emotions, helping me to acknowledge my privilege and feel shame where due -- and only where due -- the help always comes. I do feel that I'm growing to trust that. I am perhaps maybe slightly more patient, while asking for help, even if no more desperate, no less helpless, no less afraid. That slight increase in patience feels like quite an accomplishment. That is the light I will try to follow, when I'm in the tunnel.
Making a pilgrimage to Burning Man after an absence of 9 years is/was definitely a spiritual experience. People constantly mentioned to me before I left that they thought the event had changed so much, but it changes every year. The thing I was most interested in was how I had changed, and the results didn't disappoint. I was able to be in the flow, and be more myself, than I have ever been in the past. It felt really good to be there and feel connected to that tribe again. For the past 13 years I've not spent much time with them, and it was wonderful to know that there is still something left there for me even if my life no longer revolves around it....
At the end of the Neilah service when our Rabbi blows the shofar to signal the end of Yom Kippur, members of the congregation blow their shofars in unison. It's incredibly powerful and instills such a feeling of community.
If this could be considered "spiritual," I am so pleased that I sent my book in to my agent. Finally.
My wife & I have come to the realization of late that we need to be more connected to the outdoors. We took our first real vacation in several years this summer, and just being near the sea felt so peaceful and perfect, like we were finally able to breathe after being stifled. Realizing how powerful this was has led us both to connect to the outside world in what ways we can. I go walking in the mornings, when the air is still cool and everything is quiet. She takes time once a week to go to a park after work and sit by the river, watching the water.
"Spiritual" well, I have become more and more comfortable sharing the experience that energy healing is to me. I feel closer to people around me, and the plan that I know my father in heaven has for me with every session. I feel like I'm living my most "real" life when I surrender a need to appear spiritual and instead listen to my spirit.
My spiritual experiences this past year have been much more subtle than the incredible epiphanies of my youth. My wife and I are devoted students of Mussar and our growth is slow and measured in our ability to get along with each other in more harmonious ways.
This year I have gotten more involved with volunteering for a dog rescue. For me, helping a dog find its forever home is magical. Seeing a young dog go from shy pup to energetic puppy brings me joy -and tears are shed when they are adopted. Of course, there is the obstacle of failing - but even that can be spiritual when a dog enters the home and you just know that it is home. This happened this year with our Chato - he joined our family in January and I just couldn't let him go. He was one of us - he belonged and we failed.
I got back into flirting. I got into being kind to the people I love, not snarky and backwards about showing my affection. And getting back into flirting, well. That got me back into writing. Just small stuff, impromptu poetry. But I am loving it.
I don't know if this is considered "spiritual" but trying to forgive a person that I deeply cared about and once loved after betraying me and lying to me. It happened a few months ago, but I realized just recently that I am still greatly effected and hurt that someone lied to me for so long without hesitation and tried to make me seem like the bad guy. Who also has no remorse for his actions and still tries to contact me like nothing has happened. I pray that I find the forgiveness in my heart, not for him, for myself, so that I can move forward and be happy with the person I am destined to be with.
Unfortunately, no, I have not. I'm still waiting for my spiritual experience.
I have been an atheist for 10 years now, and it's pulling harder on my relationship with my mother than it ever has before. She sees her own life as completely grounded in the divinity of Christ and would be aghast to know that I don't share that. I find myself wishing (praying?) that I could find my way back to a belief system where we shared common ground. I liked being part of a faith community and I want desperately to believe that there is a God watching out for us, but I just don't see it anymore. At the same time, I am looking for all kinds of ways to connect to my community, because that is where I find my own spiritual connections. It's been hard this year because I moved internationally (and so now I'm putting down roots in a new place), but I find that my spiritual practice is rooted in helping others and making sure they know that they are loved, supported, and not alone.
I discovered an Icelandic music group called Sigur Rós. Listening to their album, Valtari, is probably the one of the most "spiritual" experiences of my life. The fact that I can re-experience it again and again, really helped me to survive my depression this past year.
I don't define many things as spiritual. I went to some excellent concerts of beloved artists, learned new beautiful tunes for Shabbat prayers, and sent many wishes (for good things to happen in the world) out into the cosmos for no one to listen to, so essentially a waste of time except for my own knowing that I care. I give as much as I can when opportunities for charity and relief come up, and that makes me feel good.
I mean, not unless if you count having seen Hamilton on Broadway lol
I went to the first rock concert I had attended in several years. I saw my favorite band, even though they were playing on Shabbat, starting their set just before Havdalah. I had forgotten how deeply moving I find the concert-going experience, being in the same room with gifted, passionate, and humble musicians and their hundreds (thousands?) of fans, singing and dancing together.
My mom died. The spirit was tested. Mine and hers. I'm not sure how the pieces will fall as to how it will affect me going forward, but I miss her like crazy!
My connections spiritually with the people I work with has blown my mind. I just love how freely we're able to talk and relate on a spiritual level. I love that Tess wants to share her interest with me as well.
Nothing really stands out too much. If I had to pick one though, I'd say our trip to Asia was a unique eye-opening experience that gave me a different perspective on the world. I enjoyed learning more about Buddhism and how Buddha plays such a crucial role in the lives of many. I learned more about the history of Cambodia and the horrendous strife that many Cambodians faced during the 1970's and 80's during the Pol Pot regime. This trip reminded me of the importance to always keep an open mind and seek new opportunities for learning and exploration. It is so easy to fall into our comfort zones and exist only within our own comfortable little universe, but there's a great big world out there that deserves to be explored, and when you keep an open mind, can provide great enrichment.
I have come to really understand the religious aspect of Judaism and I love it. Very life changing, but yet not drastic. I kinda feel a comfort in knowing that I'm in the right place.
YES! I began a meditation practice, first through intro classes at the Center for Spiritual Enlightenment and then by traveling to a weekend retreat in Glendale to hear Kyle Cease. Daily meditation helped me tremendously at a time when work worries were impacting my sleep, my appetite, my arthritis pain and my mood. I have continued to explore the benefits of meditation through daylong sessions at Spirit Rock north of San Francisco and will go through a fall series of night classes at CSE starting next week.
hmmmm none come to mind that are particularly big? moments of connection with people, yes. moments of happiness. actually I take that back when it comes to artistic spiritual experiences I had one while I was at Meow Wolf. Inspiring as heck wow so many worlds so much thought behind the process
Awkward. Does not believe you can know if there's god and believes that there is no god. Most spiritual thing prolly happened is having Star Wars as a guide to my belief and not the Bible.
I have continued my love of theatre and also dance. I love the emotional connection with live performance. I still also enjoy that connection with nature, and connection with people.
standing under the chuppah was the most spiritual experience that I've ever felt. It was so beautiful and full of love and laughter.
San Miniato al Monte, see earlier answer.
I think the trip with the 4M's was a grand experience. While it may not be spiritual, it was enlightening to see things with the boys. Knowing that their father has inspired them to being open to all experiences and to having an unlimited imagination is fulfilling.
Yes, many, I see the coincidences and connectedness much more than ever. I am increasingly moved by daily life
I have started doing more to practice gratitude and I have noticed it having an impact on my spirtitual stability.
I think I'm becoming an atheist. Slowly but surely. God seems dead in my life. I've asked for two things and meditated and prayed on them. Neither have come to pass in any fashion. If anything, while my belief in a higher power diminishes, my belief in lower powers increases. Demons and angels among us. No one cares. Jews are selfish and smell bad, but gay Christians are an oxymoron. I know many of them now, and they are a confused, desperate, angry lot. I'm sorry, but right now, God is dead to me. I highly doubt I will even fast this year. After all, last year I took it seriously and all that happened was nothing. So, maybe I'm Job. Or maybe it's all a big pile of horseshit and when you're dead, you're dead, and nothing matters anyway. Specks of dust riding a spinning dirt ball into oblivion. I have definitely been losing my religion. Did I mention this last year SUCKED? If there is a greater intellect integrity, I have some serious words for it, and they're not kind. Fuck you, spirituality. You have done nothing for me, or anyone else around me. Go ahead,prove me wrong. I dare you.
I have a friend from my days when I was Pentecostal believer who, now that I'm a concrete, assured and defensible atheist, insists I never truly believed in Jesus. This is all despite his knowledge that I asked Jesus into my heart in kindergarten, and in my teens I joined the movement of prayer warriors who supplicated for hours. We believed we cast protection upon the earth, upon our favorite political leaders, that we healed the sick, that we magnified and enlarged the collective body of Christ. The multiple meetings, street ministries, Bible-thumping and individual actions were intoxicating, almost psychedelic. But, at the age of 22, I began to commit the great sin of asking too many questions. I discovered what history demonstrates: patriarchal and conformist religions despise imagination and curiosity, and faith is often eradicated by fact. It suddenly dawned on me (when I was actually being honest) that I'd never experienced the irrefutable sensation or presence of a living God; anything divine I'd ever felt had always spawned from my own enthusiasm. Ashamed of my doubt and afraid of the wrath of God, I prayed so hard my roommate told me I even murmured to Christ in my sleep. Yet I felt no presence, no holiness, nothing. Then I thought maybe I was trying too hard, so I fell into silence and meditation, I fasted, I waited for the voice of God, be it still and subtle, or grandiose and deafening. Again there was no voice, no evidence, not even punishment for my waning faith. As I read the Bible for the fourth time, I looked for the solution, expecting the Word to illumine in specific areas, to feel even the vaguest conviction of God's eternal and sacred text speaking to me. But I only noticed more contradictions, mistakes, fallacies, impossibilities, and a continuous bullying followed by assurances of love, like an abusive boyfriend saying "I only hurt you because I love you". "I love you, even though you're bad and must punish you" "You have free will, but you better love me back or I'll send you to hell." Since it occurred to me then that I was a nicer person than the god I had served with the entirety of my being, I became an atheist, not because I hated God, but because I suddenly knew god (let's switch to lower case now) was born of misguided brain chemistry. When the revelation finally hit me I wept for my loneliness and wasted years, but only for a few hours. I realized Jesus was a manufactured voracious zombie living in my heart and as soon as I symbolically kicked him out I soon felt the exact sense of liberation and satisfied peace the Christians I know claim to feel when they invite this antiquated destructive imaginary friend in. The point of all this is to say I still remain dubious of the word "spiritual" even when it's in harmless quotation marks. I'm most affected by the authentic, the genuine, the sincere, the poetry and inquisitive openness of science, the unknowable breadth of the macrocosmic universe to the eerie vibrations of the quantum and subatomic. Art and culture should reflect accumulated time, gravity, weightlessness, calico thought, deep vision, and the sweat of both sexuality and labor, the cataclysm and magical realism of all our accumulated myths. Otherwise it's rubbish. People get their hackles up when I criticize punk, rap, minimalism, abstract expressionism and dog-piss street tags, but I'm just as much a gleaner as anyone; I still find treasure in another person's trash, but I'm willing to admit where it came from -- the same way I love sunlight pouring in prismatic color through stained-glass church windows, but I know it's meant to provide a little false glory to the damned.
Ugh no
I sat in a women's chaverah and participated as each of us discussed our failings and what we hoped to do better. It sounded simple but turned out to be eye-opening. Singing in a synagogue choir is always inspiring.
Carrie Fisher died. It left me feeling very sad. Not sure why. I thought, "She was our Princess."
Many. A couple notable ones happened during fast days. One day, I had fasted to the point of true connection with the Earth--where I layed in the grass for yours and felt connected to nature and to G-d. It was like a sober spiritual high, where I noticed every motion of every little leaf, the trees swaying, the birds chirping. The grass felt like a fantastic bed in a far away land. Another time I fasted on a very hot and humid day. I passed out in the same grass and woke up hours later to a cloud filled sky. I knew a Thunderstorm was coming by how the air felt, and quickly sprang up, in anticipation. Soon enough I heard the roar of thunder. I saw a flash in the distance, and counted the seconds until the boom came--it was but 6 miles away. Then another huge flash, this one right over my head. And a deafening roar. I felt the raindrops start to fall and before I knew it, I was trying to catch rain drops in my mouth because I was so thirsty. I quickly realized I was breaking the fast by doing this instinctual thing--instead I took the time to reflect on the beauty of it all, and how much we take for granted. This whole scene to me was more spectacular than any movie. And it really felt like Hashem was right there, orchestrating it all like a symphony. The timing was just too good to be accident.
The passing of my grandmother was a deeply spiritual experience. As was going with my intuition. When I started to live by my intuition, my world changed dramatically. To live connected to that place where we all come from-- intuition as the conduit of the soul-- the experience is other worldly. I'm connected to the edge of the universe in ways I've never been. And I have my feet solidly planted on this ground.
although i get sparks of divine in small doses, regrettably, i have been less inclined to faith and mystery. proudly, however, i have become a bit more realistic with and aware of the evils of religion, the hypocrisy and self-righteousness and close-mindedness and impairment it entails and causes. but to answer the question more specifically, perhaps the most spiritual experience i've had in the last year is growing in the grind of love and life, that is, learning how life is life and what you make it, and not a magical potion to be searched fpor, how love is a wave that ebbs and flows but is constant and worked at but also must be simply allowed to be. is that a run-on? ahh wtf. i've learned how to better accept and embrace my me-ness. i want to continue to know who i am and how that connects with everything (the world is much, much bigger than me) and live it fully. pretty damn spiritual, right?
Perhaps one highlighted spiritual experience I have had this past year is God revealing why He keeps bringing up the number 333. There are 333 messianic prophecies in the Tanahk. It reveals He is longing to speak with me and His kindness.
Rekindling with a friend whom I have a lot in common with. Finding that gem within myself that sparkles, even it's not the brightest or most expensive. It's mine, it's unique and it's beautiful in its own right. This has helped me overcome a long depression I had been aware of but didn't fully identify with. It's helped me distance myself from friends I don't feel have my best interest at heart, from men who don't value me and treat me with the worth I deserve and all things that no longer serve me and my personal growth.
I don't like that I don't ever have an answer to this. Goal for 5778: have more spiritual experiences. Two things kind of come to mind. 1) Singing with Joey Weisenberg. It's somewhat about him and more about the group. 1.5-2 hours of a circle of people 3-5 folks deep only singing. Voices blending, no one trying to pierce through with a solo. The sound is truly in stereo. More than stereo really because it's not just left, right, and center. It fills the room with this resonance that I can only describe as cleansing. I guess it's appropriate that it happens at a mikvah. 2) Hiking the Grand Canyon. It sounds cliche to talk about feeling small and new and being immersed in a sense of how much has come before you. That's what it felt like though. I mean it's huge! How can you now feel small in space?! And then I also felt tiny in time thinking about how long it took the river to carve the canyon. How long native people have been navigating it and knowing it. How infinitesimal my footsteps are.
I can't say I have. I have difficulty connecting with art or visual things. I'm more affected by what I listen to - music or stories on The Moth. Religious stuff simply doesn't move me.
I have felt a sense of peacefulness and calm when I visited Africa. The simplicity of life and realization of what is really important was profound.
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Witnessing the total solar eclipse, in the path of totality, definitely affected me in a positive way. It was an amazing and beautiful experience. It also totally challenged my monkey brain! It was like being at the peak of an acid trip, yet I was completely sober. Sharing it with my partner and my daughter made it that much more special. I would like to continue to bust out of my comfort zone and travel to beautiful places in the world. And if I can do so and see other insane celestial phenomena, all the better!
Being in nature is more and more a spiritual experience.
I read Eat, Pray, Love! I was in a very bad place for a while... not suicidal or anything, but very low and frustrated. Just felt dull and grumpy and MEH. I realized I needed a positive change and had an urge to read the book. I really identified with it and rode a good long high of positive energy for a long time. This was combined with other elements in my life that all came together to help shift my perspective. I've fallen back a bit to grumpy, cynical me a little bit, but I still retain that *knowing* that I felt. I think I'm more aware of myself more often, and more forgiving to myself and others (I hope).
No, sadly...I wish I had. There's still hope though - the year isn't over.
My belief in a Higher Power, that power that is greater than I, keeps me going when times get tough, which they have over and over this year. This year has been particularly tough, not only with my folks but with deaths, illnesses, natural disasters and the state of the world as large.
I suppose, I can count my decision to stop eating animal based products a "spiritual" experience. It goes along with what I've been doing lately in try to make sure I can stay as healthy as possible for as long as possible for the selfish reason of having more quality time to spend with my kids.
My life had been painfully void of spiritual experiences this past year. It's actually scary. I wish I could feel the deep trasncedence that I used to feel when I was younger. I wish I could awaken it somehow. I remember being on a train and loooking through a window and feeling so grateful for this beatiful world, feeling how it is connected, a powerful force, however you call it, uniting everything. I don't feel it anymore. I don't even think about this kind of stuff anymore. It's very sad. I wish I could bring it back.
Not really. My friend Loretta has rediscovered Catholicism and become a very, very devout Catholic. I hope it won't ruin our friendship. As for me though, I'm still agnostic as ever.
I think finding out that my dad has cancer, on top of his fighting his pulmonary fibrosis, has put me in touch with mortality in a deep way. I'm trying to practice some buddhist meditation and understanding on living and dying.
I've tried meditation via Headspace more than once, but have found that it doesn't really appeal to me and that my current mindset struggles to embrace it. I definitely haven't given it enough of a chance, but the short stints have not, as of yet, found their footing with me. If anything, I'm very turned off by the very public efforts to embrace religion and make it a part of daily life. I find it to be a very divisive force in society, and view it as a strong contributor to the widening gap in society. I understand and respect one's right to believe, and organize around those beliefs. But I have an equally strong commitment to a secular society that does not compel citizens to live by one faith's code.
I think I had a sort of "Come to Jesus" moment....no, I believe I did, because I had to let go of all the issues my husband was struggling with that I could not fix for him. And I had to do it more than once. Sometimes it was in a good way, maybe pretty stereotypical sounding: sitting in church, heard a great sermon and just felt that prompting inside to go and kneel and let it all go. Other times it was more after a raving rant, like in my car on the way to work crying and yelling at God (and the husband who wasn't in the car) about all the things going wrong in my life, his life, the world, and so on...and then it's just followed then by a peaceful calm that helps the hot tears ebb away and the ache in the heart to subside. And I get it, I know it will be alright, even if it does not look like what my "Alright" wants it to look like. I don't know how people do it, really, without some concept of God in their life. And how they cannot pursue that relationship on some level, rather than rejecting it, is beyond me...I tried to do that for years, and I was a mess inside. Now that I get it, and I get judged for it even though I am no evangelist, I can't even believe I was making the choice to go without God. it's like I was trying to breathe water and convince myself that I wasn't drowning, the rest of the God-fearing world was drowning and that breathing air was the same as trying to kill myself!
My spiritual connection to Judaism has greatly expanded over the last year. I have discovered that two areas of interest for me, social justice and mindfulness, are actually very Jewish concepts. This has led to attending a Wise Aging group, which emphasizes Jewish mindfulness practices and starting a social justice group at my temple.
Ten months ago I was asked to teach a regular weekly restorative class at a local yoga studio. I felt honored and overwhelmed and under qualified, but after attending additional trainings, reading and studying it has now become a true joyous part of my week. Then two month ago I was asked to teach a guided meditation class for a local high tech company. Again I felt a but intimidated, but have come to see these classes as a highlight of my month. Becoming a meditation and restorative yoga teacher training has opened up my eyes to all sorts of possible ways for me to teach yoga, long beyond when my body can no longer hold up in it's current state (something I fear may happen in the next 15-20 years). But being able to express my heart in these classes shows me what a wonderful next chapter is possible in my life!
I have deeply spiritual experiences any time that I see humanity looking together with one voice in the same direction. This can happen during a fireworks spectacular, during heavy rush hour when the seas of traffic somehow find a way to part for an oncoming emergency vehicle, or during other times of great joy or crisis. I think that as a civilization, social media has made us more cynical, and that we are loathe to embrace joy when it finds us and instead feel drawn to look for the tarnish that hides beneath the surface. For the time being, times of great tragedy still seem to bring us together. Stories I have read about the hurricanes and the Cajun Navy and volunteers from all over the country coming to the aide of citizens and first responders from apps on their phones... That gives me hope that there may yet be hope for us still.
Our wedding (again) was a very spiritual time for me. Feeling the love & support of our community, and having so many people show up and say really nice things about us was incredible. I felt invincible and completely vulnerable at the same time!
I would say that taking time in the hospital to look at the pictures displayed in a gallery gave me time to reflect and feel spiritual. Art always helps me with spirituality.
Well this year I did come to some kind of understanding about my definition of God. Or not definition really but an idea of what God is. I feel that God is a creation of the human mind, is created by the human mind. It is a sense of a higher self, to encourage doing things that enhance and strengthen the community you live in. Evolutionarily favorable. Good to encourage and nourish that part of the mind. There are so many ways to do that, it is wonderful. Also got a sense of the question of good and evil and why in the long term things seem to resolve toward the good. I believe that is not because of the nature of good but because of the nature of evil. Evil is a destructive force. For a time it may destroy others but eventually the destructive nature of it causes it to destroy itself.
No, my spiritual bucket has been quite empty this past year - I think this part of my tears at seemingly minor experience that are nonetheless affecting - Publix commercials, Lemony Snicket movies, lecturing my son. The most spiritual event I think of this past year involves my children, feelings of pride and awe at their growth, as well as pride in their milestones and achievements. I feel a hunger for more fulfilling artistic, cultural, and truly spiritual experiences.
I haven't and that is the issue - I've felt myself in particular slip spiritually this year.
My most spiritual experiences happen while listening to music. This year, hearing the Colorado Symphony play Peter Boyer's composition, "New Beginnings", couldn't have come at a better time. I definitely cried while listening to the work but it simultaneously lifted my spirits and opened my heart to the challenges ahead. I've had a challenging, somewhat lonely year. I need these moments where music lightens the load ever so slightly; enough where I can breathe again.
I've had several times when I recognized G-d was helping me to see something in the way of an answer or clarification. I'm grateful that I can tune in to this spiritual experience. I always say "Thank you, G-d" or "Okay, okay, I get it!". I just wish I could remember and hold on to these experiences, but I guess it's supposed to be just in the moment.
It's happened at Notting Hill Carnival before and it happened again this year. It was the Saturday of carnival weekend and I was rehearsing with Baque do Axé in Richmond with Rumenig and Pai Jara from Maracatu Nação do Porto Rico. We were playing a basic rhythm while standing in a big circle with Rumenig in the middle. He starts playing virado and it sounds AMAZING! It's effortless and elegant and cool and awesome. (Bit of context: Rumenig takes the history and culture of maracatu really seriously. I went to a workshop in Oxford at Sol Samba and he spent about two thirds of the time talking and only a tiny bit teaching us how to drum. It's really important to him that we understand where the music comes from and respect his ancestors and their proud culture and traditions.) Anyway, he's playing this amazing rhythm over the top and I swear I can hear his ancestors screaming and crying out over the music. I was genuinely moved and amazed by what I was hearing. I couldn't figure out where the noise was coming from. Later that weekend, I realized it was his ancestors I was hearing; just a more recent ancestor: his uncle Pai Jara, who was in the room and screamed with a kind of joy and exhilaration! I really felt it, though. It was pretty special.
I graduated from a 300-hour meditation teacher training from MNDFL Meditation. In some ways, I dived deeper than ever into my practice. I learned so much more about the different lineages and philosophies. I wanted to know more about Buddhism. I am still on the fence about becoming a card-carrying Buddhist, but I am asking more questions about it. I also went on my first silent meditation retreat in nearly eight years. It was really great to be on retreat and to feel re-committed to my meditation practice. It also felt like a hard reckoning and owning up to all the years I didn't make time for retreat. I felt the disappointment of that truth but also forgave myself for it.
I have learned, practicing yoga, to 'pause', 'breathe', and 'listen' before I react. learning and utilizing these tools has been my saving grace this year.
Dreams. Dreams help me process my stuff. I don't always know what they mean, but many times I can pretty much nail an interpretation right away.
The death of George Michael still haunts me now and it's nearly been a year. This man and his music helped be the person I am today. Coming out as gay in a tiny farm village while all the other kids were listening to other music and his melodies spoke to me. His sudden passing was so incredibly sad (for me) that I find myself tearing up whenever I see footage of him, etc. i finally had to ask myself why i was still having such a strong reaction and realized I saw him as a friend, not just some distant celebrity, but as someone who was in my life...
Every day I wake up is a day to seize the glory of the world. Who is the wizard who makes the grass green? I am
I think the klaf signing. It was just a time that took my breath away and was like no other time I have been part of till this point in my life.
I am learning to trust, to lean on others, and to share myself. It has been a challenging but affirming experience. I never knew, really knew/believed/understood, that the people in my life really do love me and that I can count on them. But that this also requires me to continue to strive to be more open, to change my fears and act from a different place.
No. Which does not make me happy. My spirit has been too long neglected and overlooked in the struggle to bring Cyrun some success. But that is my intention for this year--to focus consciously and intentionally on living through my spirit, with it present and alive and well-fed.
Yes! I feel like I have grown so much spiritually that it's better and better as time goes on. I've grown and gained clarity and understanding of why we're here on this planet. I am understanding the meaning of life more, which has always been a lifelong interest of mine. I could go into more detail here, but it is such a volume of things I'd want to share that I probably wouldn't have enough space. There is something else I learned, something much more simple but it feels really profound to me, too. I've learned that during meditation, or just sitting quietly, simply put your own hand on your heart and ask a sincere question and just listen to your own personal guidance. I swear, this really puts me at peace and I really do feel like I can "hear" my guidance answering me.
I've really ignored the spiritual side of things this year. The most transcendent experiences I've had were really just listening to music. I've heard some really incredible music this year, but so much of it endorses values that I do not, and none of it really encourages the sort of reflection that makes the spiritual matter in your day to day life. It's junk food for the soul. I remember being really moved by religious music twice this year, there was a snatch of the Avienu Malkienu on an episode of The Leftovers that nearly had me in tears. There was also a Beck song that used "baruch atah adon-" as a refrain, which made me feel things: anger that he would handle Gds name so glibly-like it was nothing, a sense of the kind of connection that I used to get davening (though I say brachos that use that phrase every day, it was the unexpected nature of it that got to me, I think) and others.
I began writing again after ten years. Having a child upended my creativity and then losing two children destroyed and rebuilt my sense of self. Divorcing my husband gave me strength and freedom. Exploring my sexuality as a bisexual woman is perhaps as spiritual as finding my artistic voice again. So artistically I become a whole and creative and confident person again. And sexually I have found my way through actual experiences: a girlfriend approved of by my male partner, which gave me the freedom to explore and enjoy without threatening my daily life partnership; a few other intriguing sexual encounters that taught me as much about myself as it taught me about my partner. The biggest revelation being that one male partner is jealous of everything while claiming to be generous and that the other is as selfless and true to his character as he seemed to be---I was so completely blindsides and dumbfounded and thunderstruck by his absolute generosity and selflessness (unfeigned!) that I will always trust him.
I need to journal more so I remember, but I had several spiritual experiences surrounding my mother's death. After she passed, I feel like there were moments she was showing me her presence... from strangers mentioning her name ("paging Nurse Nickey" and "Nickey left here about an hour ago") to the manicurist who looked at me so lovingly as I got my nails done before her memorial. I also consider the feeling of when I act like I think she would, that I feel better and closer to her a spiritual experience. When I feel a really intimate connection w my friends and/or family - I feel that is a spiritual connection.
Yes. The womens march. A dinner w my secret womens group in march was kadosh/ sacred and moving. Friday nights w my family. Chorus. Meeting hillary snd saying thank you
During the summer I found myself praying before the start of my day. By talking to God before I do anything has helped me grow spiritually. Now even since school has started, I feel desperate for God now. I make it my daily routine to pray every morning. I have noticed God moving on my behalf. For the past few days I have been asking God to help me stay focused and get things accomplished, specifically the KRA. On Wednesday I asked God to surprise me. That day I aimed to test 2 students. I was able to test 4. Then yesterday, my school gave me a substitute teacher for a few hours so I can finish administering the test. When she walked I had no clue! Wow! God is amazing!!!!
I've begun to see common spirit in others each day, and that is my biggest and most important spiritual accomplishment yet.
I would say that my first retreat with my Jeremiah cohort was incredibly spiritual. It was the weekend after the election, and I was searching for something to wake my soul, to make me feel goodness again, and I found my cohort. A group of incredibly different and meaningful leaders who helped me to push through the pain of the election. The Friday night service we shared together, learning new music was a profoundly spiritual experience for me.
Not that I can really think of right now. I have been analyzing my faith and how it important it is to me as I explore a potential relationship with someone who isn't religious.
I almost didn't write this, but recent readings on environmental ethics have committed me to acknowledging the spiritual and transcendental experiences I have in nature. Only last weekend, I retreated to Provincetown, MA with a group of students. Tropical Storm Jose churned off the coast, mantling Cape Cod in dense fog. Halfway through the first day, some graduate students and I walked the The West End Breakwater (aka Provincetown Causeway), a long dike constructed of boulders interlocked across the Provincetown Harbor to protect the wetlands and dunes deeper in the harbor. The mile-long dike disappeared into the fog ahead, and in that half-light, the yellow-green-orange of the wetland marshes was brilliant. Picking across the boulders, occasionally running upon blue and orange crab parts dismantled by seagulls, Provincetown eventually disappeared. We abruptly found ourselves surrounded by water, marshland and fog. It was surreal. Walking ahead of the group, at one point, I realized I was feeling perfectly happy. It was a simple happiness that wanted for nothing but to absorb, with every possible sense, the beauty and peace around me. It was a happiness, I hope, that I shared with others on the hike. No transcendental truth arrived via some ecological afflatus, just a contentment that I had been waiting for and craving so long I had almost forgotten it was possible.
Spiritual- I have started laying tefillin again I am saying that it is for the benefit of my female students but I have really enjoyed and struggled with it being part of my regular practice.
I went to the Western Wall this year when I went to my birthright Israel trip. This was extremely spiritual. I was with my birthright group and we had a conversation before approaching the wall. This was on January 10th, 2017- the 3 year anniversary of my father's death. Adam, the staff member, said something like, "I know that most of you don't have a strong belief in God. But God created us like a father, and in order to make it relatable to you today when you go to the wall, when you touch it, try saying 'hi Dad', and just see how it feels". I followed his advice and it was the closest I'd ever felt to God and my dad since his death. Also just being there, among all the other worshippers, touching this sacred thing that so many have touched in the highest of emotion and spirituality, the most sacred thing, held a heaviness and significance that I couldn't fully understand. My lack of understanding manifested in overwhelming feelings, crying. I was then Bat Mitzvah'ed at the Western Wall. Again on the anniversary of my fathers death. Which was equally spiritual, overwhelming, significant.
I have started to meditate regularly which I believe has touched on me spiritually. To help me have continued faith.
On a cold February night Victor and I walked over to St. Elizabeth of Hungary church and attended evening mass. Mama was so sick at that point, her caregivers and my brother-in-law and his family were here with her, so was my mom. But we walked over to attend mass and the process of walking there, attending mass, taking communion service and then walking home put me in a highly meditative state and gave me a sense of being "plugged in" on another level I don't usually access.
I've had several spiritual challenges and experiences this past year. The angel of death hovered over the lives of two beloved pets and took Dudley and Honeybun with him when he left. In the case of Dudley, my 10 year old English springer spaniel, I had to decide to euthanize him. He had a brain disease that made him increasingly anxious and fear aggressive. Although he was strong and healthy in his body, the impact of his illness got so bad, I knew he would bite me. He had already attacked his daddy dog, Whisper, several times. And so, I agreed to "play God" and had him put to sleep at the end of March, 2017. It was a horrible, heart wrenching, heart breaking decision. But, it had to be done. A day later, I received in my life an adorable 8 week old English lop rabbit who I named Honeybun. I had been planning on getting him long before having to deal with Dudley's illness. Honeybun was a great thera-pet to me in those weeks and months after Dudley's death. He liked to be cuddled, was curious and playful, and was a wonderful friend to my other rabbit Brio. Sadly for Honeybun, Brio and me, Honeybun injured himself earlier in September. He broke his spine and had to be euthanized. I was away on holidays when this happened. And so, there has been great sadness and even a spiritual emptiness this year. But, I did fulfill a dream of going to the Arctic this year. That is where I was when Honeybun died. I was unaware of what had happened to him. For that, I am grateful. While taking in the splendour of the icebergs, glaciers, mountains, Arctic Ocean and cleaner than clean air, my spirit was renewed. Yes, I was in awe of God's creations, as yet mostly unspoiled by us humans. So many colours of turquoise. How many are there? I couldn't begin to explain. How happy I would be to live in that environment, surrounded by so much beauty that truly speaks to my soul! Even though living there full time isn't practical for me at my age, I will visit again and be renewed again.
Spiritually I feel I am trying to get back on track. I tossed God aside for the last 6 years and it left me feeling empty
Nothing particularly spiritual, but I did discover a lot of new music which has tapped into my imagination in new ways. That could be spiritual I suppose.
I had a..."Spiritual" dream a.k.a I was in a... alternate universe it was so...REAL and I was in my room and my mom said to me i'm pregnant i said to her "you bitch" and she walked off then I went outside I was at my home but...different I went down a dirt path that led to a road and I saw my (real) friend and two people from a dream I can't remember and I said to them "i'm going to Halifax to see if this is a real dream or not" my friend stayed but the past dream people came and has we walked I...got jolted out of the dream but it felt like my soul was jolted back in to me. Some people will say i'm a lier but it was real has hell for me!
I always struggle with this question and am not quite sure what spiritual means to me. I enjoy being outside and hiking and am always in awe seeing sunsets. This year, I made Adrienne's kugel for a kugel competition and while not exactly spiritual, it made me feel grateful when I won because I was able to share her recipe and other's like it as much as we do. It's not quite spiritual, but perhaps gratitude and awe are close.
Kabbalah...For the first time my entire life made sense, it came together. Questions were answered that never were before. I start class during the month of October.
Going to Zion and other parks was a deeply spiritual experience. I feel like I need more nature in my life and it reminded me of it. Walking the Narrows felt very spiritual to me, like some kind of reimagining of the Passover story and the sense of "narrow straits." Although this was such a positive walk that it is probably not quite what the Hebrews experienced leaving Egypt. :-) Nonetheless, it filled me with awe, wonder and joy.
I witnessed the eclipse in Nashville with Louie and Frances... it was magical and if that's as close to spiritual as I can get, I'll take it. At first it just seemed like a cloudy day with a clear blue sky... then it got dark, almost like the grey just outside the halo of stadium lights at night... cicadas started chirping, and when it was completely dark it just felt like dusk with the beauty of a ring of light in the sky. And as quickly as it came, it was gone. There's nothing more humbling than feeling minuscule in the face of nature.
I have spiritual experiences when I step away from my phone and technology, when I go to a yoga class, when I travel and explore on my own, and when I'm able to focus on reading or a particular activity. Traveling on my own has given me great clarity. Focusing on activities has brought me joy and relaxation. Stepping away from technology has given me peace of mind and the ability to feel less like a robot and more like a human.
I did a small amount of meditation that tickled the fringe of my brain to the point that I could actually see how it could have a real affect (change) on how I think and what I think about myself. I think it scared me a bit as I haven't created time to continue with it. Thinking about it now, I am going to make time to jump back in... It is definitely time for change.
I see I should have saved the eclipse for this answer. That was absolutely spiritual in the way that awe elicits a spiritual feeling. I imagine it felt the very same way to early humans experiencing the first thunderstorm. It removes your certainty, which I think we need to have removed periodically. Otherwise we get too cocky. Too secure. Security turns us into tyrants, of others, of the planet. But there are always micro moments of awe, if I'm paying attention. Moments inside of moments that bring you to attention. "Spiritual" should always be broadly defined. The fact that it is so narrowly defined in organized religion is what ruins religions and makes their followers smug tyrants. Spiritual is anything that takes you out of the driver's seat. It can be having your expectations thwarted, it can be a moment of improvisation, it can be a wash of grief.
I wouldn't say that this year provided any specifically spiritual events for me. However, I think a fair comparison would be the substantial mental health changes that occurred in January/February. These led to a period of sever (for me) period of depression that took me to some particularly dark places. As I previously mentioned, this really opened my eyes to the fragility of the mind and also the body. This is not a place that I want to go back to again and I'm making efforts to ensure that I don't. However, I fear that this winter will lead me back to a similar place and I need to be aware of the signs of an on-coming event.
For the first time in a very long time, I really have had spiritual experiences, specifically religiously spiritual experiences. Everything about traveling to Israel made me feel more religious and spiritual than I had in a long time, which is funny considering how unreligious our group/trip organizer was. But so much of it was just being there, being somewhere that was historically important to my religion. The most spiritual part for me was definitely seeing the Western Wall for the first time. Joel had us all close our eyes and hold hands and walked us to the best viewing point for the Wall. While we had our eyes closed, he read us a poem that was written from the point of view of the Wall and I have honestly never felt more religious (or unable to stop myself from sobbing) in my entire life. I think it was particularly significant because I ended up holding hands with Jaclyn, who became a way more important friend than I ever would have imagined, and Gonzalez, the IDF soldier I ended up becoming the closest to.
Yes - I joined Congregation Rodef Shalom - went to a woman's Micah and missed the one two weeks ago - but the retreat was spiritual - saw how my actions were impacting the world
I went to Comiket and saw hundreds of thousands of fellow comic lovers running around a convention center for a few days. And this event came less than a week after I went to the world's largest metal festival, Wacken. I realized that it may be hard, it may take a while, but I can find some interesting, wild and crazy people just like me anywhere in the world. I will stop at nothing to find them.
I have been feeling a overwhelming urge to be charitable and donate my time. But I haven't found any time to donate. I need to figure this out I. The upcoming year.
Yeah i don't even know where to start. My ex helped me revamp my relationship with God. Things won't be the same, ever and i don't want them to be. I have learned to feel as one with the smallest of things (rocks, insects, water) to feeling like a speckle in the sea of the universe. Gods whole creation is amazing.
Everyday with my kids... ..and the solar eclipse.
I have spiritual experiences every day. Being alive is a spiritual experience. But last year I lost close friend to cancer, and then two other friends to cancer, and THEN someone else I knew to an alcohol-related accident. So there's been a lot of death in my life this year. I would say that all of these have been spiritual experiences for me because each of these people have made an impact in my life and their deaths have all taught me something about bravery and gratitude.
I have had many spiritual experiences this year. It seems that the more open one is to having a relationship with God (however you define or don't define that term) the more these experiences seem to find you.
My spiritual journey is probably a little off track right now -- I've attended mass a few times and recently become interested in Zen Buddhism after reading Steve Jobs' biography. I want to make an effort this year to go to Shabbos, mass, and maybe even a Buddhist temple to find out what I really believe and what really inspires me. I've recently become interested in getting a tarot card reading and some other psychic readings -- more joking than serious, but I feel really open to anything right now.
This year I started attending sound baths and discovered the power of sitting and having vibrations shift because of the vibrations I was around.
Free Swim at camp, after none last summer and a hard year with Dad, Charlie's recovery and college pressure. The purity of the joy, bouncing off the water like sun glints, as they finished their first buddy check caught me in the current and moved me to tears then and now as I write this. I am where I should be. I have what I need. God is a river.
The past year I've made more art than I have since college, and it's been really rewarding. Also I picked up a meditation and morning ritual practice. I love both and I hope I continue to practice both. I know that I should be making art a lot more. Gotta put my damn money where my mouth is on this one.
I have had a lot of spiritual experiences this year. I started the Jewish conversion program in January and will be completing it in December. It has been an awesome journey and am looking forward to gaining more knowledge as I go along. It's so exciting to me that being a Jew is a life-long learning experience! It's also humbling. I have picked crocheting back up. It's a balm for the soul when I'm having a bad day. I'm not sure if it is due to the crocheting, but I am happier than I have been for a long time.
This summer I made pilgrimage to Israel. I arrived in the Holy Land with zero expectations and returned to the States a month later, with a heart bursting with love, but also heavy with grief that I had to return to a home thick with hate. Everyday I miss my life in Israel and everyday I am challenged to ignite my spiritual awakening in my current life that had developed over the summer.
i joined the district honour choir and that has shown me that i have many different talents and can overcome any challenges that are thrown in my general direction that i happen to be standing at that exact coincidental moment when the challenge is thrown.
NO!
I'm learning Hebrew! and I signed up for the Anshe Mitzvah class! I'm glad I'm moving back toward Judaism. I told Steve Simon that it helped that he reached out to me - I was glad I checked back in with him. Even though I've struggled with my synagogue, that was nice.
All the protests. The feeling that I am connected to others who stand in commitment to justice.
I had the dopest ice cream ever in majorca.
When i went to the Weeknd concert And felt the vibrations and let music control me, it blow me out off the building in happiness.
I finally came out and decided to draw what I feel and inspires me to do what I love and music drives me to what want.
For my moms birthday we went to Disneyland and we were on its a small world the whole time and I understand why my mom loves the ride(even though the song is annoying) now every time we go on the ride I cry tears of joy because it reminds me of all the little people who helped me in my life and it reminds how much I love my mom.
i think i found my passion in music, dancing, and singing. i found a love of acoustic guitar and electric guitar. i already loved music. i grew up in a very artsy family and everyone in my family has a connection to music in some way like record companies and stuff like that.
Yea! I felt a MASSIVE out of body experience. It was, however, extremely terrifying. Late at night, I was trying to fall asleep, and I realized that I was sleepwalking. I just assumed I was lying in bed. I could not do anything. It was like a third-person view. I watched my body while my brain was stuck.
If by spiritual you mean connecting with someone on the most basic level of our souls then yes. Theres a boy. Soon to be a man I guess but I guess he'll always be a boy in my mind. We met three years ago and I am truly, madly, utterly in love with this boy. He has my heart and at this point all I can envision is a future with him in it.
The spiritual experiences I have had this year were when I was reading The Radical King, edited by Cornell West. Man, Martin Luther King was something else! He really was revolutionary. His essays on peace and commitment to following the path of Jesus are so inspirational. He discusses his struggle to get on the path of non-violence, and his fear. Then he felt the presence of God and had this incredible peace wash over him. From then on he was ready to do God's will. I feel more inspired to stand up to do what is right. If I can't even stand up to a co-teacher who is making bad choices for students, but MLK could stand up to armed racists, then who am I????! During Spirtus Christi's Race Convoy to the South I did struggle with the existence of God.
I was acknowledged for a spiritual experience that occurred quite some time ago which made me feel like I was not alone and how fortunate I was to experience it.
I embraced a religion for the first time and it feels really good to know for sure. My life is so much richer and happier!
I have begun to lean more on the "unctions" as given to me by God. Listening more to Him, attuning my ear to hear what He says, leaning more of His ways & adapting them into my life's application.
Seeing an opera sung by combat soldiers. Was teary eyed or crying the whole time.
I took communion at my cousin's wedding. I wasn't sure I was going to until it was my turn to stand up in the pew. I feel like it shouldn't feel like a big deal, because I don't even believe in God. I don't think there's anyone out there with the power to damn me to eternal suffering in fiery hell for the terrible sin of being a woman who finally got brave enough to fall for another woman. But I do believe in rituals. I think. Sometimes. And I know that my family believes, and I spent that whole wedding wondering if I told my aunts and uncles and cousins what was really new with my life, they'd wring their hands over whether or not I should have participated in the sitting and standing and kneeling and taking that I learned to do when I was a little kid, same as them. My mom says that taking communion is between me and God. And I like that, even though I don't faith. Because if I squint hard enough, sometimes I think that I do believe in God. Not in the judgmental asshole who sorts people into good and bad. But the other two arms of that cross? Sure. If the father is no good, squinting at Jesus turns him into just a guy who wanted everyone to be nice to each other, dammit. And the Holy Spirit is just this thing that joins us all together, makes me feel peaceful when I'm singing hymns and sitting in a pew. And maybe squinty God is enough for me. Maybe it's enough that taking communion makes me feel connected to myself and my family. Maybe by Christmas I won't even feel guilty about it anymore. Maybe.
I've been trying to encounter a spiritual experience, to make sense of the mess that 2017 was for me. I guess if you have to manufacture it, it's not really spiritual. I can look back on the last 12 months and see what I've made it through and see that I'm strong because of it, but I'm not really happy and I feel more alone than ever. So year, I would welcome some kind of a spiritual experience to show me that somewhere, all of this was worth it in the end.
Well, I went to a toddler group at a church I used to frequently attend, and came home saying I missed organised religion. My husband suggested we join a synagogue, and I went away feeling pissed off that it was ME who wanted to worship and why must it be HIS damn religion. I forgot all about it and sank into a funk, before it occurred to me that what I had mistaken for postnatal depression was in fact the absence of God. I picked up a book on Mussar that a rabbi had recommended years ago, and have been practicing it for weeks with overwhelmingly positive results.
Going back to church for the first time in a couple of years was refreshing. It was like reconnecting with an old friend. Though I'm still a guest at my new church, I definitely feel welcomed and like I belong despite my past.
I use the i ching for spiritual work. Just before the election, I asked the oracle about how it was going to turn out. It told me that this was the beginning of the great untangling, which would take awhile but end up really well for the whole world. I take that fortune as a touch stone to help me stay sane when horrible things keep happening to our country under our current president. I think we are uniting against a common threat and EVENTUALLY, I do think we the people and our country will be better because of it. Assuming we don't get blown up first, of course. I think it could take many years to get fully disentangled.
I really can't think of any. That is probably why I didn't answer this question last year, too. Did they change the question or have I never read it all the way through? Can something be secularly spiritual? But I know what they mean. I just recently discovered Dear Evan Hansen and there is no question that it moved me. I haven't even seen it yet, just listened to the music. It feels profound. #youwillbefound
My oldest child, age 3, is just starting to explore the concept of God, and I love, love, love hearing his questions and watching him dabble in the idea. It's also given me a warm feeling to feel confident in my own sense of God and to be able to answer his questions comfortably.
As I implied in my last post, The Kingdom of God will never be fully realized on earth. Only in fleeting present-moment experiences is there glory.
I hv not had an experience but have spent some changing my belief system into a greater picture as opposed to a specific church group. My beliefs have become more holistic.
I saw Hamilton. It was the greatest piece of art I've ever witnessed.
Yes! We joined a church - Unitarian Universalist For Central Oregon - and it has been a truly wonderful experience! Great people, great minister, and we have participated in small group meetings. I cannot say enough good about it!
This year has brought the both magical and spiritual development of my relationship with Susi to something beyond a typical friendship. It has been an experience that we have undertaken together, choosing to be open and honest with each other. I/we continue to get braver and braver and invite the other on our journey of discovery and feeling. I think it is really wonderful. My heart is so full and I feel like we have built something very special. Our house is a temple and I hope we continue to practice rituals of love and trust. I love discovering new things about myself or Susi and having the other be an integral part of each others journey.
Rappahannock with Peter, Bree, Laurence, Seth, Leslie, and Joseph. Never has there been a more perfect weekend. Story time in the car. Pool party and flying a kyte. Popcorn, chocolate, and chorizo. Victorian red wine. Smoked chicken. Chalk art on the slate. Sunset. Music. Painting in the tower. If heaven exists, it's that weekend on repeat.
I attended a Beth Moore conference this year and I felt a call from God. It was mind blowing, soul searching, over powering and wrenching all at the same time. After seeking His face, I was also miraculously healed after not being able to move my right toe for 4 years due to osteoarthritis. Not even the best doctor had been able to help me, but he tears and prayers of a wonderful room full of Christian women did!! I am His!
I'm more affected by the conspicuous absence of such things. I feel disconnected from the spiritual, and I don't like it. My life seems to be about just the practicalities of job, health, maintenance, existence. Sometimes I find myself wondering why I've worked so hard to stay alive -- what was it all for, etc. Not sure right now what the answer is... The solar eclipse was the closest think to a spiritual experience this year. It only lasted for 30 seconds of totality. Afterward, it seemed like it had been just a dream. There's probably meaning in that...
I think that the most obvious spiritual experience that I had in the last year was niggun saloon, by far. The way in which the musicality of the room was nurtured was truly fantastic. It had been a long time since I had been in such a resonant room with so many musical folks. It kind of reminded me of being in Glee Club and singing Georgian chants. I even wrote a paper about this for Sharon's class!
The most spiritual experience was watching the death of my father. It has left me with the question of whether I should focus on the future and burn all the old letters, or go through all the writing and create a narrative for the future generations. I am leaning right now toward the bonfire. What will I do!?
During our moving sale there were several great connections that made me so happy to be blessing others with our abundance. A homeschooling mom who had just moved to the area came to help with the sale: she needed something to do, wanted to meet people, and needed household goods; I needed help and wanted our possessions to go to someone who would use them. I gave all of our towels and sheets to someone who would use them for a charity. Someone who bought a quilt top that my grandmother made told me that her church group would finish the quilt, donate it to the Mennonite Relief quilt auction, and the money would be used to support missionaries. A teen who was redecorating his room walked away with a big box of maps and a huge smile! On the free day, we collected over $300 in donations for our church.
I'm sure I have, but I don't seem to recall any at the moment. Usually, I'll have a year filled with profound dreams and other mystical events, but in this past year, nothing seems to be coming to mind. I know that just going to services has been a powerful spiritual experience for me, and I did have a dream with my father in it on the last night of a three day silent meditation retreat, but I don't remember finding any messages to it. We were there in each other's presence, and perhaps that was the point of it -- that through my meditation, I was able to reach a spiritual elevation where I could perceive him again.
My most spiritual experiences really are through art. Writing music can be ritualistic and spiritual: healing. I find that artistic mentors can be like gods. I try to watch this Charlie Kaufman speech often https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eRfXcWT_oFs it gives me solace like one might have in a god. It makes me feel at ease with creative existence, and with society. MindfulnessMeditation has also been a spiritual haven for me the past couple weeks. I feel more in touch with myself. To me that's almost better than a god. I feel like my own personal peace is forming. Something that's been in me forever, but needed to be teased out.
I moved to another continent. It's strange to travel and come back and realise a new land is "home". I guess "home" can be anywhere. It's more what's inside that makes it home than what's outside. Yet, also there is pleasure in becoming familiar with a new geography. A new subway system and knowing what is east of what and what is North of that. Making the new familiar is an amazing feeling.
Living with Steve is a spiritual thing because I thank heavens that he is my awesome boyfriend who is so responsible, loving & supportive. I hope we stay together forever. Also the rallies against hate and discrimination moved me.
Yeh, no. Not spiritual in any sense - the word "spiritual" itself is toxic to me and stinks of an unwillingness to analyse or critically understand the world. It speaks to me of people looking at the world only through the lens of their own comfort and self affirmation, disregarding that the experience of others differs fundamentally from them and the way the world is framed varies in ways we cannot really fathom. Unfortunately I think the spiritual is inextricably wound into tribalism in the form of religion - sometimes used as an excuse for people to not take responsibility for their prejudice, and to exclude or ignore others. That said - deepest satisfaction has come from taking up painting and playing music regularly.
I am not sure that I have had any spiritual experiences this past year.
No. I've had no experiences that you could consider truly spiritual in the past year.
Yes. When I visited Ireland and saw the Book Of Kells. I was truly inspiring.
Sadly, I have not.
I always enjoy going to synagogue and participating in the High Holy days.
Seeing Jesse and Daniel act and play music is very spiritual for me. To hug my daughter, to touch her and see her in person, because I miss her so much. Also, the repeated defeat of the atttempts to roll back the ACA--so empowering.
Nothing comes to mind. That's makes me sad. Oh, I did actually have a very spiritual experience. I was singing gospel songs with/for my mom and then got in bed. I don't remember if it was later that day or the next, but I had this intense awareness of G-d. An experience I have not had in many years. I realized that in my hurt, in feeling betrayed by G-d, I had shut G-d out and that I didn't need to any longer. That being upset by my experiences and have unsettled questions and a connection to G-d were not mutually exclusive.
I cannot think of any experiences this past year that could be deemed spiritual.
Watching my daughter come into the world was a spiritual experience. I saw my wife persevering through so much pain and beheld the determination on her face as she gritted her teeth and pushed to bring a life into the world.
I wouldn't say that I've had any particular spiritual experience like I did when I was going through my divorce. However, finding Holy Trinity church has really been such a blessing in my life. I always feel close to God whether or not I attend Mass. But now that I've found a spiritual place that I call home, I feel a wonderful sense of community that I feel connected to and that gives me peace.
My mom used to collect dimes in a jar and so now whenever we find one in an unexpected spot it's like a sign from her letting us know she's thinking of us. There was one at the entrance of the animal park on my birthday.
This last year I turned 30. While most people cringe at this age, I felt like a fucking badass walking into my third decade. During a church service prior to my birthday, I realized that the sun would always rise, there would always be another tomorrow, that there would always be another ..... with my 31st looming in two weeks, I am decidedly less optimistic. I learned much in my first year of my 30s: how to be confident and mean it, how to jump into friendships, how to express emotions with a greater eloquence, how to grieve and express that need to others. I grew. I may be less optimistic now, but as the tattoo I got on my birthday last year reminds me "for surely the sun will rise in the morning."
I danced.i saw an evil i never wont to see again .i learned how to stand up for myself.and im still believing
No. Currently, I am spiritually void. I've been void of a lot of things. Void of art. Void of poetry. Void of working on my range of motion. Physically, spiritually, emotionally. All of it. My range of motion is limited. I need to get it together. Avi is great about letting me process my sadness... but now I'm just taking advantage of his loyalty and devotion. We deserve a better me.
When I ended up in the ER for the second time, I started praying to what I can my trinity: God, Mother Earth, and the Universe. I guess I have always prayed to them, but I this year I felt like I really needed them to send me strength and answers. I quite smoking cigarettes after 12 years and my body didn't know what to do. It lost control of it's stability. It starting tingling and squirming and doubting and being in just plain fear. It has gotten easier but is always lingering too. I don't know if I would consider this saga a spiritual experience spiritual but I would consider it to have brought me to a spiritual acceptance of the now. and the trust of time. From a secular standpoint, I would say that maybe my mother and I doing what she calls our "inventory" could be dubbed a spiritual experience. She visited for 7 days and we gardened. It wasn't easy to be around one another for that long but it felt like I was older. in every way.
I felt in long conversation with God about the "plateau" period this year. Mostly I felt gently loved and nurtured. I felt very, very supported by God as I stepped into more abundance and energy. I felt truly cared for, particularly on the scary backpacking trip, and church afterward singing "Giants!" Generally I feel evermore close to God and the beautiful unfolding of the universe, just as it is.
A good friend passed away. She was too young, long suffering and dearly loved. I hope she is in peace in a better place. I am still not sure of that. Her existence was spiritual to me and the death rituals we all observed. Comforting faith can be a very spiritual experience.
I continue to find yoga - and now meditation that I started last October- to be spiritual. Services continue to be meaningful for me. I like my new planner which asks me to reflect every day on what I'm grateful for as I start the day and before bed. I find that even days when I'm grateful for coffee and getting places on time, it makes me appreciate the simple things. I find that I like quiet and I like to read on Saturdays, my version of Shabbat.
Meeting Lillian and Carol.... to older on fire women of GOD.... that has been a blessing. Also...the Lord has been showing me in dreams and visions....that MS is my husband... time will tell lol...
I continue to grow in my awareness of my connection to all things
I don't think I've had any major spiritual experiences. I had a major experience my senior year of high school, which led to 4 years of self-discovery and theological research. Then everything started to click after college as I matured and read some more book, and tested all the theories I had discovered (ways of life, controlling of thoughts and emotions, states of belief and attitude, etc.). Life has been very good ever since. I feel like I actually took a more realistic turn this year - I've tried to take everything I've learned spiritually to help guide my every-day life, and help me become more successful professionally.
No. Except I have finally started to listen to music again which makes me feel connected to something beyond myself. It's made me want to write more, which is about as spiritual an experience as I'm ever going to get.
I got to see Hamilton live in San Francisco. I'm not sure if it exactly qualifies as spiritual but it was incredible. I saw it twice - the second time was better than the first. It felt like the culmination of a long-held dream...Sounds crazy, I know. But I am so moved by the entire show - the story, the music, the lyrics...to see it live on stage felt like a gift and a privilege. It made me feel so connected to my childhood and to NY (the greatest city in the world...). And it was pure bliss to see a show cast with hundreds of people of color...AMAZING all around.
I would say the most significant spiritual experience is when I realized (just this week) that my mode of expression in the world is ruled by King of Wands and is all about sharing my knowledge with the world with enthusiastic creativity. Yet, everything I've been doing with my career is the opposite of this and that needs to change in a significant way in 5778. It is the path to the 2015 me that believed anything and everything was possible and I had the power to make it happen in conjunction with the Source of All.
Two things come to mind; sitting quietly and writing before the afternoon Yom Kippur service and realizing that I had finally, after a long journey in the wilderness, found my spiritual home. The second was the evening service of Rosh Hashanah this year, where I knew so many more people, received numerous hugs, and realized that I had truly become part of the community. Such profound experiences of connection, community and belonging.
Yes - when I went to the 10-day silent meditation centre in Thailand about 2 months after I came out of a long-term relationship. I went through a roller-coaster of a ride through those 10 days, through the highs and the very lows. I survived it, and I'll take that experience with me for life. It's made meditating an integral part of my life, helped develop my capability to forgive and love (both to myself and others) as well as helped in my personal growth (physically, mentally and spiritually). I continue to work to work on the foundations I've learnt from that centre.
Yes - in working through some childhood trauma I connected with my dead sister - it was quite comforting and is helping me deal with a very abusive childhood.
How accepting and loving children can be of all different people in the world... before our scary world wrecks there pure Minds
I'm not sure. Maybe? I've had better experiences while being in nature or breathing deeply. Meditation has helped a lot this year. For an "official" spiritual response: we got to go to 6th and I for RH services, and I'd really missed them. I missed the tunes for the prayers (I like them better) and Rabbi Shira's way of helping us make sense of the world. It was harder to pay attention with the kids with us, but they enjoyed it, too.
I'd say my experience with communication, especially around men and family, have been spiritual experiences. Setting and respecting my boundaries, asking for what I want, working through shame. Going to Camp Grounded in May in Mendocino was a spiritual experience, getting out of my comfort zone. Participating in Spoken Word and speaking my truth to my dad. I celebrated 10 years sober and all of that is a miracle in itself. Working with Jessica as my sponsee has been eye opening in so many ways. Being the Artsfest person for Maccabi and having the opportunity to interact and connect with so many amazing and creative teens was inspiring and grounding. Walking through the break up with Brian has brought awareness of the light, I am okay, I am here and I am safe. I am exactly where I'm supposed to be. Adding Concsious Contact to my recovery program has brought so much meaning and depth to my practice.
Wow yes. How can I even describe this journey in the night before the new years eve? Such a magical journey of trust. Trust in me. My intuition. Trust that now is the right moment. Trust in peter. Trust in the medicine. Trust in my inner streanth and coming back to myself whenever the mind deside to wounder to much. Trust. Trust through scary honesty. Acceptance. Trust in my inner compass. ( maybe I will have this tatoo next year when Ill see it?:) ) . Yes. Wow. It was such a spiritual experience this journey that I dont really have the power now to write it all. I should also look nw in my diary for more jnfo;) But I will add here that probably as I will read this lines the feelimgs and sensations of this joirney will sprout in me again, and it will bring some things up, samd I am interested what me jn an year from now wil feel about that journey... Coming back to this moment though, I feel it was also so meaningful since I touched and jnvestigated my spiritual journey, buddhism and my deep connection to it, the intention to follow the heart amd let it be a joirney that will, and was, connect to the streanth of the path of the heart. And it was also just fucking FUN!! soooo fun!!!it is so cool to invetigate the perception like this;)) And so it is effexted me in thouse aspects, strenthen my connection to my inner compass, to trust. All of those aspects I mentioned above.. Made me feel like ckntinue explore it more in the way of a medicine, jn the sense of a heart journey... as I kept on doing so;)
I think that one of the most spiritual experiences I have had this year was in my travels. It is an incredible feeling to really being to understand how big the world is and how small we really are. However, it has reaffirmed that no matter how small we are we still all have the opportunity to make an impact on the world and those around us. It has also helped me to understand that I am doing what I am supposed to do in this world.
Turning 80 "focused my mind wonderfully." I have long thoughts about how one lifetime collects so much, not all of what is collected being well understood. But it does make my elders and remote ancestors more real to me. Along that line, the idea of faith, of a certain kind, becomes less off-putting to me. Seems that Christianity needs defending.
My whole life is a spiritual journey. It is never easy. I question and doubt, turn towards, walk away, battle with God, rest in God's presence. Maybe that is what an authentic personal relationship is all about. Maybe I"" getting it more right than I think!
Reading Claudia Rankine. Reading Patricia Williams. Reading Anne Carson. Federer and Nadal playing doubles ON THE SAME TEAM. The failure of my attempted grief pilgrimage to Claremont on the night of the 12th, and how understatedly funny it was. My lovely lunch with J. the next day. Lighting candles in the oddest of places to talk through motel ceilings to D. and T. The feeling of everything collapsing in on itself. Like old traumas creeping back in in the form of a comfort blanket. I think the world is ending. I can't always remember why that matters. I'm wondering if I get ECT can I see god.
While Was in Tzfat I organized this really big Shabbaton with like 40 people and I had no idea what I was doing so I was so stressed out. Once the sun set though there was nothing I could do but breathe and ket it all play out. We were singing on the balcony with the most beautiful sunset in the sky around us and it was the perfect moment. I felt safe and happy and like I did something right and that I was where I was suppose to be.
This year through prayer I have determined that the Lord is calling me to ministry. I understand now that the cornerstone's of ministry are relationship and story, and those happen to be my strongest skills (and greatest desires) I still don't exactly what I should do, but I am finally asking that question.
I cannot recall a spiritual experience that has stood out this year. I want to continue to explore my world of spirituality with the growth of awareness of how other cultures function in their day to day lifestyles.
There have been spiritual moments - experiences during the Etz Women's Retreat; connection with nature - in particular, the ocean in both the Great Barrier Reef and the Andaman sea reef; a visit to the Buddha's Tooth Temple in Singapore that feel deeply spiritual, a day spent with elephants in Thailand; making a Purim mask with our Rosh Hodesh group; a tour into the depth of the Waipeo Valley; Mikvah for Shabbat Shuvah with my Etz Women's Group My problem with these experiences is that I find them very momentary and fleeting and cannot utilize them to develop a spiritual discipline and keep me centered and hopeful outside of the experience.
No, I don't think so. I'm still trying to figure out what love actually is, and I know I should drop it entirely because no one will truly know, but I keep learning small pieces of wisdom.
Just thinking more about how Hashem effects everything, and starting to recognize it.
Again therepy, the space and time to examine why I feel what I do, what triggers my unwanted reactions and emotions and how to deal with those. It's been life changing, like I've had all the knotted scar tissue cut away, and new flesh can replace it, stronger, less painful and something that will give me lasting peace
Hiking Volcano Acatenango in Guatemala was a spiritual experience. From hiking by moonlight before dawn, to gorgeous scenery, to the physical challenge of walking from 7000 to 12000 feet in one day, to the being present enough to give up and take a rest on the final ascent all made for being very in the present. My daily yoga can be a spiritual experience. The initial connection when I first sit on my mat, take in the trees and sky, or the initial gratitude practice has the power to completely change my perspective. Sometimes😄
Possibly the most affecting experience, in that it touched my soul in ways my head cannot adequately explain, was seeing the LPO play Gavin Bryars’ “Jesus’ Blood Never Failed Me Yet”. It is an experience which I feel has genuinely altered me, improved me, in some indefinable way elevated me.
Passover this year was a particularly spiritual experience, having hosted a few friends alongside Venezuelan asylum seekers, a grandmother and grandson. The themes of Passover are beautiful and so relevant in today's world. Yet I've always recognized myself to relate more with individual stories more than to get motivated by analyses of structures (including structures of oppression). That made the presence of our guests and their willingness to share their stories of life in Venezuela and their exile so potent on this day. One last way this experience was spiritual for me was the effort of every English speaker to bring forth their Spanish language knowledge from the forgotten corners of their minds in an effort to connect with our guests and help them feel welcome. I find divinity in human connection and that feels most meaningful to me when it takes vulnerability and deliberate effort to achieve. { vulnerability, intention bear the sweetest fruit }
I watched over a period of months as a close friend died of cancer. She was an extraordinary person and remained entirely who she was till she finally slipped away from us -- cheerful, generous and caring towards others, forgetful of self. I'm not sure I believe in God. But in the goodness that can exist in a human being? For sure.
Yes. I have become more certain that my purpose in life is a spiritual one. My spirituality brings me joy.
I have been pretty out of touch with Judaism in the past year. And I am starting to be okay with that. I find spiritual meaning in many other things I do, like writing and teaching. As I keep learning to not censor myself when I write, I feel that I am starting to get to a core within myself that I wasn't able to get to before. My writing is becoming less distanced and much more intimate and personal. Oftentimes, I find myself writing my emotion in a different way than I think or vocalize it. Additionally, my work with kids continues to be a spiritual practice. My profession is rooted in the tenets of social justice, which has become an increasingly important part of my spirituality.
I have already written, in response to a previous day's prompt, about the completion of my conversion this year. The mikvah in particular was overwhelmingly emotional. After my final immersion I stood in the water for quite awhile and cried. In all, my conversion journey was nearly three years long. In that moment in the mikvah, when I came up for air for the final time, I knew I was both home and whole. My mikvah experience, however, was one of two intensely spiritual moments from this year. The other occurred in the dentist's chair, proving, of course, that any moment can be a portal to G-d. Somehow, I managed to chip my front tooth the week before my conversion (and the night before an important information interview). My mom (a hygienist) was able to book me a noon-time appointment with the dentist for whom she was working that day. The doc took one look at my tooth and told me that she would need to do a bit of filing before she could do the filling. I broke into a cold sweat at the sound of the drill, and before I knew what was happening I heard the following words in my head, "Baruch ata Adonai Eloheinu, melekh ha'olam..." I didn't think, I just prayed -- and when I prayed, I prayed in Hebrew. In that moment, I knew my conversion was a important formality, but a formality nevertheless. I was already a Jew.
When I saw the prophecy of Rev 12: 1-2 happen over Israel! Leo rise with Mercury, Mars and Venus, making the crown of 12, the sun, then Virgo with the moon at her feet. And Jupiter, after being inside Virgo for 9 months birthing from her... Then I realized how many did not want to see or believe, but chose to go about their business, I realized that God was speaking to me by revealing the sign to only those He had chosen to reveal this sign to, for His purposes. May my daily focus change, moment by moment to think, speak, do and walk for the glory of God, opening the eyes of whoever will see, speaking to whoever will listen, for the salvation of whoever will come. Lord may I die to self that the Holy Spirit be strong in me, doing everything for the glory of our Heavenly Father!!! Amen
Every fucking experience is spiritual. *Sigh* With every breath I'm reminded that I am a spiritual being having a human experience. This thing known as personality is fleeting, a thin construct at best. We construct roles and rules and so much more, but behind and beneath all of that, eternity remains. Unaltered. Awaiting my recognition. Now. And now. And now. And have you seen the research concluding that people who swear are more honest?
I've been struggling so much with my faith. I'm trying to find it again but I have had so many experiences with members of the clergy and religious this year that have shaken my faith in our church. Not my faith in God-- He's all good. Just in the humans who serve Him.
No. Not really. I could use a spiritual experience, frankly.
I felt more closely identified to the title of artist. Otherwise, no.
Aside from my son’s birth, which definitely had a spiritual element, I suppose the year hasn’t been particularly filled with them. Driving from Chester to Glasgow and seeing the mountains start to appear was magical, and made me feel grateful to be living. Recently, I walked outside in the cool fall air and felt gratitude that I got to experience the fresh feeling in my lungs. Most of my “spiritual” experiences have been tied to nature, which I think indicates I should spend more time outdoors. On the religion front, no. I’ve been frustrated with organized religion; I want to name my son for my grandfather but want to keep him intact. I can’t get even a Reform rabbi to participate, because the movement encourages circumcision. I can’t understand why a benevolent G-d would want mothers and fathers to willingly hurt their sons and remove a functioning body part in the name of religion.
None I can recall
Yes. Shortly before dad died, I started seeing certain numbers all the time. 222, especially, but also 444, 555, 1111, etc. Seems to happen when I'm especially anxious. Or wakes me up in the middle of the night. They say these are "angel numbers" and they are sent to make me feel comforted about where I am in life. Not sure I believe that, but it has made me feel comforted when I'm missing my dad.
Not really a spiritual experience- more of a "finally I understand" experience. I finally understand that I am perfectly happy fiddling with my bees and chickens, working in the garden, socializing with friends, reading, and writing about subjects that interest or amuse me. Period. For some people, that may sound like too much. For me it's kind of regular- minus looking for a real job. I don't need the money- we have more than enough. I respect my time and how I choose to use it.
A few, my wedding was certainly a spiritual experience. The morning before my wedding I did the mikveh ritual in an ice-cold waterfall and that was super spiritual and special. This year we went to the synagog a but more and connected with the Rabbi who I find to be incredibly spiritual and inspiring. Also, in my sessions with Simone I have realized that this part of me has been dormant and slowly re-awakening.
Giving birth to my daughter has put me to the test to the limit. It was a scary time, she was premature, sick, needed operating on and as a result was in intensive care for the best part of a month where she didn't put on weight. My mother had a stroke shortly after and I couldn't go to her because i had the baby still in the hospital. I was on my own (hubby at work 1 hour away and was looking after our dog too) scared and sore, sad and tired. I remember that someone told me that god doesn't deal you anything that you can't handle, and it worked. I believed it, and it got me through. I went to pray in the hospital chapel and I felt listened to. My little girl is now 9 months old and incredibly bright, healthy and energetic. She's beautiful. My mother is on the mend still but is almost fully recovered. I didn't think we would be this good 9 months ago! Thank you god that I did have the strength to get us through
i had a moment with my mother in the redwood trees which reminded me of who i am.
Going to Olympic National park was the biggest thing. Seeing more of the differences of the world is amazing and makes me want more. I want to travel more and make sure Reid sees as much as possible. I need to spend more time outside with the trees and wild things to be my best self.
I guess the one that comes to mind is “Hamilton”, which came out of nowhere and grabbed our family’s attention and devotion. Weber really took the lead by asking to forgo all birthday presents and parties in exchange for going. We listened to the soundtrack incessantly, and when the day of the event came, it did not disappoint. It was truly spiritual to witness such an incredible complex and collaborative art form. Leaving the lyrics and music aside, the stagecraft, lighting, costumes, choreography, dancing, moving props and backdrops, all of it – Non Stop! And the story of Hamilton… actually Lin Manuel Miranda’s fascination with the story and his ability to share that passion with us in lyrical and musical form was so energizing. It really brought incredibly levity to an otherwise dark spring.
Traveling with my dad in Israel came to the top of my head. Not just or even because it was Israel but because we were in nature together exploring something we don't do often. It was a trip of senses. So much gold light and wine and grapes still on the vine. Louie saying Becca. Lighting Shabbat candles in my apartment.
Marching with 150,000+ people in the Womxn's March was one of those most healing things I've done in a long time. There was so much anger and disbelief after the election (there still is) and showing up to march with other people who feared the same things I did was healing in a way. I don't think anyone expected the numbers that showed up in the end. It gave me a sense of relief--that there was still some humanity and goodness left in the world.
This year hasn't been as spiritual as I'd like. I see I wrote that last year too, so I'd better get to doing something about that!
The power and beauty of nature .
I've learned to let go of a lot. New phase. Some things can't be a priority in my life. Wait. No. Everything can't be a priority.
What leaps to mind right now is a moment or two during our family vacation to the Grand Canyon this summer. First there was the moment we first really looked into the Canyon and beheld its impressive vastness (and oh, it was VAST, like nothing else I've ever seen). Seeing the Grand Canyon gave me a sense of awe, wonder and appreciation for our beautiful planet and its processes. More specifically, there was the moment that my youngest son and I drove out to see the sun rise over the Canyon, which was both spectacular and awe-inspiring in its beauty and really special as a shared moment. I hope it will be as meaningful a memory for him as it was for me.
Yes the whole year has been a spiritual experience & a reminder of how God has and continues to hold me & guide me. Grateful & beyond blessedblessed
I've had some reconnection with my judaism since I now live in a very small town without a lot of jews. It's been really nice to find people to connect with on that level.
This question feels more difficult to answer this year, and I'm not totally sure why. Maybe the closest thing I felt to "spiritual" this year was in some of the outstanding artistic experiences I was lucky enough to enjoy. Off the top of my head, this includes concerts (Wilco and Flaming Lips, especially), film (Moonlight, Manchester by the Sea, definitely more...) and even some of the art I got to consume in museums in Chicago and Spain. I saw some beautiful places this year - nothing quite as stunning in its particularity as the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina, perhaps, but certainly beautiful nonetheless. I visited new states, toured a new country, and learned more about nooks and crannies in Evanston and Chicago than before. That still feels spiritual to me.
The eclipse - it sounds silly, but it showed me something so much larger than myself - the power of the moon and sun. It gave me a cosmic connectedness I cannot describe. It was infinitely beautiful. We are privileged to exist.
When I went to Machupichu and Titicaca I felt a deep conetction with Inca culture and their principles of reciprocity, and I felt I wanted to live by them, go back to Inca, Mayan and other prehispanic principles that respect earth more than anything. Other thing that hapened to me is that I wanted to go to Munster Tour with Yutsi and Ivan, at the end I went to Jafra with Olivia's family, and to Gratz with Andy and I felt and thought I liked smaller tights and deeper connections with things I am interested in and care about, still there is some sort of shallowness between me and such events, same as with Norberg or Unsound, probably I will find a place where I can actually develop a deeper connection.
For a long time I have been wanting to go to Los Angeles for a 6 month sabbatical, where I used to live for a while during my professional training. I like southern California, and I want - with no expectation - to audition for tv and film, something that I have been promising myself for a very long time. During the past year I have visited frequently and seem to "receive" even more indicators that this is the right thing to do - in terms of people I have met and interactions with my friends there and in northern California. I often think of strong intuition as a spiritual experience.
God transformed me through a school of the prophets, and taught me how to trust Him to provide for my every need.
The work I've done with Joe Weston and Respectful Confrontation starting last October has seriously been life-changing. I have now done 3 workshops with him and now my parents and best friend have signed up to do his workshops too. I'm also apprenticing with him. His work has changed my communication, and the way I teach and even walk around in the world. It is such important work. I've also had some pretty deep revelations courtesy of my work with Tyler, my new therapist. Namely: 1) that mattering to people is important to me, and I want to be more mindful about who I prioritize and to be really generous and present for the people who matter to me, and start to let go of the people who don't matter as much, so they stop blending together. 2) that I have a lot of trauma to heal around being abandoned and being chosen second. That I need to do some work to repair that imprint and make a new narrative for myself. I think working on this will do so much to relieve my anxious attachment style. 3) That I want to be more purposeful, honest and brave about intimacy. It no longer serves me to be intimate with people I don't care about. That being honest and brave with people who care about me and respect me is a profound and moving experience. 4) That I need to heal some of the fundamental shame I have about having a body and being imperfect. I need to let myself just be me.
Spiritually I was really thinking more of connectedness. I had a big project where I had to clear out my 10 by 10 storage units. And it started to be too large of a task for me and I asked for help and not help from unusual places which was an absolute miracle for me and it allowed me to do the things that I needed to get done in a more calm and peaceful
My niece died two weeks before her birth. Most if not everyone in my family are practicing Catholics so there was a lot of spiritual talk going on at the time. It mildly annoyed me and thought it prevented meaningful conversations from happening.
Working with Jason and helping him find sobriety has been the most rewarding spiritual experience of my life. Yes, I have worked with others before but never with someone who seemed so lost and has come so far. He has inspired me to keep on trying myself.
We went to Egypt and Jordan for holiday. It was my first time in the Middle East. I am only half-Jewish, but looking at Israel from across the Dead Sea, it' amazing how part of identity kicks in.
The most profound ones have been self insights into those foundation beliefs that have unknowingly been shaping my perception of the world. Identifying betrayal as an on-going feeling is my most recent one that may lead me somewhere or nowhere. But it was a strong AHA moment.
The eclipse! We went to Idaho, and found a marvelous spot to watch with only a few other people. It was breath taking - a display of the mysteries of the universe
I’m December of last year, I started applying for teaching jobs in Arizona; a state I’d never even visited. I learned quickly that my resume was impressive to a state in need of quality teachers and several interviews were quickly lined up. The first interview I had was over the phone, and when I was offered the job at the end of call, I immediately accepted it. Sometimes you just get that “this is the right one” vibe, and I got that in the hour-long phone call. Though I was beyond excited about my new job, what followed was a great period of uncertainty, as my wife and I prepared to leave behind all of our family and friends. I was nervous and more than a little scared about this great unknown.. On our visit in April to tour my new school and look at houses, we decided we wanted to take a hike in the Superstition Mountains. I’d hiked once in my life when I was in the 8th grade and visiting a friend who had moved to Minnesota, and while I remember having fun, I hadn’t otherwise thought much about hiking since. As we set out that day, after touring my new school and looking at about a dozen houses, I didn’t even know if I wanted to be hiking, as I was exhausted after a long two days. As we got higher and higher the further we hiked, I stopped and turned around. I saw mountains and valleys and cactus everywhere. It was gorgeous. It was home. Our new home. In that moment, all of the doubt went away, and I knew instantly we were making the right move.
A very simple occasion: One morning a few weeks ago I opened an email and found a picture of one of my daughter's son. Later in the day My son text several photos of my older grandsons. A tremendous sense of peace and serenity. Short lived but cherished when it happened.
August 1st things changed. My mother found out that I had a crush on one of my coworkers. I told her about Max and she said that she would pray for him. I was really happy when I heard that. For the first time I felt like I was not the only one praying for him. August 4th, I ended up working with Max. We had about two hours together where we were able to talk. He asked me a lot of spiritual questions. He said that he was open to learning about other beliefs. For the first time, I felt like I answered the questions reasonably. Then he told me that he didn’t know any other Christians. He didn’t know any growing up and I was his first Christian friend. I realized at that moment that God put me into Max’s life for a reason. Before I met Max there was probably no one praying for Max. He needs prayer. He needs God and so I was glad that I have met him. I realized that even if I was messing up my job by developing feelings for him, I had not messed up too badly for God to use me. I prayed that God would give me peace in my soul regarding my feelings for Max.
I have become increasingly aware of being more relaxed in the moment, even stressful moments and more able to stay connected to my thinking and noticing mind. I am aware there is a sense when things "go wrong" that it is not necessarily bad and that in fact life is simply flowing in a way that will make it easier for me to get through the day. If life was a river, it has its own flow and I am not fighting it like I used to. I am not demanding that it go the way I imagined it would go. Being able to let go of this expectation in the moment has led to a flow of things, that in the end, has consistently worked out better for me, the day, and for what I really needed and wanted to focus on. I want to continue to cultivate this noticing in the moment.
I learned to meditate this year and really enjoyed it. I went on a spiritual retreat that included prayer, meditation and silence. It was a wonderful experience, even though I had to say kaddish 3 times a day for Ken, which was totally unexpected as a part of the rituals and prayer. The silence was great and I never expected that. Wonderful.
Seeing Lily after giving birth to her was incredible. I don't know if I would use the word spiritual but it was definitely a moment of awe and wonder at this amazing human being who had just entered the world. The love I feel for her has only grown and I continue to have moments of awe when I look at her and think about how she grew inside of me.
I was with my mother when she died. She was 88 and had Alzheimer's disease. My father had died just months before, though Mum didn't know. I knew her death was coming and wanted to be with her. I was holding her hand as she died and honestly, it was a bit scary. I was her only daughter and I just really wanted to be with her. And I'm glad I was. It has brought me peace to know I sent her to wherever it is she went, that I was the last person to talk to her and tell her we all loved her. She's at peace and I am too.
It's been a year of stabilizing perhaps. Going to church more (although it doesn't feel as fully invested as before). Not being involved in committees at all, starting to do one-offs. It's alright with me.
Again I have to say no. It almost makes me not want to continue with this 10 Q thing. After my car crash again was in position hoping people would be nice, and again I saw the failing the human spirit of even good friends who stay away because maybe they feel they can’t handle neediness. I don’t know. But it hurts me. What is this have to do with spirituality, specifically, my spirituality? I know! People kind and caring to other people represent a spiritual experience to me. I don’t just want to be taken care of I want kindness, and I want to give it in return.
I have felt G-d's presence a great deal this past year. So much good has taken place, that I can't ignore the spiritual significance. I made the decision to go for it in terms of my life coach training, I became very comfortable with my place in this world and food stopped being so important, I fell in love with my fellow human, and I have began to allow joy to really seep in. Often I feel like jumping up and down like a kid. This isn't just a fluke, it's G-d. I watched and kvelled re: Maya at her bat mitzvah and I've been filled with joy at how much Jenna gets out of her Jewish camp experience. All of this spirituality, which was not present for me until a few years ago, truly fills my heart. I find myself thanking G-d more often for the incredible life I'm living. I am truly blessed.
Unfortunately, I can't remember anything really worthwhile. Maybe in the coming year, I will be better attention to the little things, finding more radical amazement in my life.
The solar eclipse! I felt moved, grateful, awe inspired. Priorities realigned for awhile after as I was focused on the things in life that can't be repeated.
I haven't had any particular spiritual experiences this year. However, I went through a particularly tough period with work. This period helped me refine my focus and understand what I do and don't want out of life. It was an important step toward the next stage of my life
This question bothers me. There seems to be a pressure to feel 'spiritual' about something and if you can't associate with this you are somehow a failure. I can be moved by a few words spoken by a friend, a comedy performance, the sound of birdsong, the sight of a humanitarian disaster on the other side of the world. Are these spiritual experiences? They provoke a strong emotional response, they make me feel, they make me realise my insignificance in the universe. Is that spiritual? I have no desire to be seen as spiritual or to crave spirituality. I'm happy to be content with myself and to help others to be the happiest they can be.
I have not. But my friend M has - and continues to. The funny thing is that I'm not religious at all. Occasionally I might connect with some germ of spiritual feeling but not with organized religion. Yet, because I remind M to focus on her religion and trust in God when she's having a bad day, because she says that I act in righteous ways, she credits me with enhancing her spiritual life. This is crazy but beautiful.
As my sister in law was in a coma in ICU I went to the sand sculpting competition on our key, an event she loved and planned to attend annually, there was a specific sculpture which really spoke to me as if it was her. It was the bust of a woman, head pointed upward, lips parted (perhaps in prayer) and eyes to the sky. It was called "Breaking Free". She died that same day. I was so saddened by her last days, I knew she didn't want to be kept alive if there was no hope of recovery and already she was declared brain-dead. Yet her family still held out hope for a miracle. My experience led me to believe that that "miracle" was her "breaking free" and leaving this world behind. Events that have happened since I am sure she would not want to have witnessed, she would be very hurt by the state of our country.
I'm not going to beat myself up about not encountering much spirituality in my life. Instead, here are my cultural, natural and artistic highlights from the year: - Swimming and beaches and sunshine in Kefalonia and Ithaki. - Swimming in the Cherwell and the Thames, our old favourites. - Swimming generally! - Angels in America: okay, I slept a little bit during it, and it could have done with quite a chunky edit, but there were some really powerful moments. - Did I watch Fleabag this year? If so, I'd have to put that in the top 5; absolutely amazing stuff. - Stornoway's last gig was bittersweet, but I loved going to see the Longest Johns in Falmouth.
None that I recall.
Spiritual changed from relgious to secular... and life is 100% more awesome now.
Oh, so many candidates for this one. I think what really stands out for me is when my dad surprised me by accepting my invitation to hear my final d'rash at my home synagogue before moving across the country to start rabbinical school. I didn't think he'd want to come. He felt it was important, though. I spoke about Korach's challenge, comparing it to the tough and disrespectful classes I'd had. I spoke about the role of humility and doubt in leadership, and the importance of sensitive and flexible response in the face of crisis. After the service, Dad was all choked up. He'd seen that I was good at what I do, even if he doesn't get it on a spiritual level. He'd seen that my words and davening mattered, deeply, not only to me but to my community. My presence lifted people up, and they were going to miss me just like he and Mom would.
I have learn to find myself beautiful I have accepted me as who I am I am moving forward and believing that everyone of us matter, we can all make a difference, if you don't think an insignificant being can make a difference, try spending the night in a room with a mosquito!
In September, really uncertain about what comes next after my house sitting gig, I awoke in the night and was plagued by doubt and anxiety... like you do... At 5am I got up, drove and hiked to a magical place. The whole day I felt held by beauty and showered with grace and wisdom. It felt like God reassuring me that I’m in the right place and have always been and will always be cared for. Over the next couple of days, each of my anxieties were addressed, either to resolution, or at least with meaningful progress. I’m on a journey of faithfulness, and it’s hard not knowing what is next, but I keep getting signs that I’m on the right track.
Nothing in particular. I still feel spiritual and pray often. I have wanted to read books and get into research about energy this year, but haven’t gotten to it yet. I’ve so intrugued by underlying energy and how people connect and chemistry and I want to know more. I 100% know people connect in ways we aren’t able to explain or describe, and I think there’s an entire underground world to understanding this. I also believe we are souls and we have bodies, therefore when we die, our souls are still alive. Need to do some more thinking on this.
Nature and music spoke loudly to me this year. We went to more concerts than usual and spent more time outdoors.....the Divine speaks to me through music and nature....
I've joined a synagogue! And that has been perhaps the best part of this last year. The work I did over the summer allowed me to be open to the idea of needing and wanting community, and I think I've found a really wonderful place to be a part of. Although it's thrown me for a complete loop--religion is the last thing I would've expected myself to become interested in--I've allowed myself to go with it, and experience all the wonderful feelings it brings.
Nope
Just during these High Holidays, I attended a "young professionals" reform service for Kol Nidre in DC. For the first time in a long time, I felt like I was at a service meant for me. The rabbi's sermon resonated with me and felt more relevant than what I am used to hearing at my parent's synagogue, which is much older and more conservative.
Witnessing the death of my dog was the first truly spiritual experience I underwent in my life. As he grew older, he showed signs of sickness and growing frailty. Within a year of his first concerning visit to the veterinarian’s office, his health condition rapidly deteriorated. The sickness drained him of his happiness and energy. His personality and spirit remained, however, and they remain within me to this day. My family agreed that we must not be selfish in our approach towards the end of his life; we did not want to euthanize him, but to force him to endure the sickness for much longer was cruel. As a collective, we decided to end his misery and grant him peace from his ailments. Despite our wishes to keep Rocky for as long as we could, we relinquished our self-centered desires and did what was in the best interest of the dog that had such a large impact on all of us as a member of our family for over eleven years. Initially, my sister and I chose not to go to the vet’s office with our parents and the dog because we feared the painful inevitability of death. When we realized that they had left without allowing us to give him our final goodbyes, however, we frantically called them and demanded that we be taken into the office immediately. Rocky was still prancing about the office, blissfully unaware of his impending end, when we reached him. I often thank God for the experience of holding Rocky as the vet painlessly injected him with the lethal concoction that would send him from this world. As I felt the life leave his body suddenly, I shuddered and began to sob over his now lifeless body, offering my love and prayers for him as coherently as I could. The rest of my family huddled around me and consoled me, a boy who had just lost the best friend he had grown up with since he was barely six years old. The strength of this experience permits me to understand the value of life and its temporary nature. It has also provided me with an intimate knowledge of death, revealing to me the beautiful peace that comes with the termination of life. I no longer fear death, but embrace it as a natural process that should not be feared.
Reading A Little Life was heartbreaking and lovely and spiritual for me. I felt assured in my decision to prioritize art in my life, whether it be through reading, writing, acting, singing... the story was sad and terrible, and I felt like the one thing that kept the characters moving, that helped them cope, was the fact that art was so much a part of their lives. I also come away from reading that book with the idea that even sad lives, even hard lives, even troubled lives are worth living.
I would have to say my rekindled relationship has lead me to look at spirituality deeper, especially because I view my partner as my soul mate. I feel more than ever that we were made specifically for each other. We’ve been through so much together, and we have been apart and now we’re back together and planning a future. Our connection is very deep, very strong, and godly.
When my husband had open heart surgery I finally realized how surgeons could have a god complex. The awe I felt when I considered how we have evolved from apes to somehow understand the intricacies of the human body. We have explored and learned so much that we are now capable of using robots to harvest extraneous veins and arteries and precisely connect them to the most precious of human organs, the heart, while it is alive and pumping. We are tiny miracles on this great earth. It's amazing how so much goes right in our bodies (and this world) that we take for granted everyday. Listening to my husbands strong heartbeat now brings tears of gratitude to my eyes. When I shook the surgeons hand I found it hard not to feel like I was touching a something holy. His hand preformed the impossible and saved my husbands life, gave him another chance so that I could enjoy his company on this earth a little longer. There is some power out there: call it god, call it energy, whatever it is... all the positives lined up, we were given a gift and that showed us just how grateful we could be.
Over the summer, Wynn came to visit me in the great state of Colorado. We drove over Trail Ridge Road one morning, leaving Estes in the darkness and reaching the top just in time to scramble up the trail and witness the sunrise for ourselves. In part, my joy was due to the unbelievable beauty around me. Golden light graced, bit by bit, the slopes of Longs Peak and the tundra around us. Elk and marmot stirred, beginning their days in the thin air. And in party, my joy was due to his joy and awe at his surroundings. It was a blessing to share that space with him, to watch him come to love a place I have always held dear. Also, I witnessed my first total solar eclipse this year in Missouri, with old friends from space camp. Cloud cover threatened to destroy the experience as rain descended around the same time as totality. Five thousand car-fuls of expectant eclipse chasers waited for a break in the sky. When, just before totality, a sliver opened for the sun to peak through a roar overcame the crowd like nothing I've heard before. We had waited and hoped together for hours and for years, and at the last moment we were together offered a glimpse into grace. Totality was unlike anything I could imagine. Localized darkness, as if the world around us had turned against us, forsaken by the light but surrounded by sunsets and sunrises. Then the cold, coming after the sun, reminding us of our vulnerability and interdependence. Words are insufficient. In that moment I felt bigger - part of a universal whole, a collective born out of wonder - and smaller, more humble than I've ever felt before. Even with our modern understanding of this phenomena, it was clear I was living a miracle.
I enjoyed the eclipse this year - it was amazing to have a shared experience with the rest of the country. Nature and science can make you feel small.
I am starting the painting and writing practice, several times a week.But I can't seem to hold onto it. I mean, I can'. But then I feel bad or sick (like today) and I let it go. Maybe this is a lesson about stepping in, leaning in even when you don't feel great. I am working to meditate 7 days a week, this year. I hope that I can go on a retreat but I'm not sure. I've been performing a lot of funerals. That's been amazing. Really heart-shaking, beautiful things. Some agnostic, humanist. That feels beautiful. Oof, have NOT had the sex that I'd have liked. That is a damn shame. Let's try and have some of that sex this year. How? where? Who knows. But it's time. I've felt a yearning to do more yoga. So that's nice. Tuesday nights, maybe a class now and then. Nothing too crazy. I've been learning from the people I work with, who drive me crazy. Makes me so mad when people don't trust me because I don't come from their tradition, because I am driven. That is seen as a threat. "You know you ARE a threat, right?" R says. "You are incredibly accomplished, smart, and thoughtful." He is right. Being kind to people at their level, saying the things they need to hear even though I don't need to hear them. Even though it makes me angry that they have what I see as infantile needs for my approval. It is real. So, why not give them what they are needing. It's hard, though, not to be known. To mother everyone, not to have a place to rest, really rest.
Not really and that is something I have been sad about. The most spiritual experience I have had is running and the endorphins you feel after but I could definitely use some growth in this area!
The family viewing the eclipse was pretty spiritual. My dad and I cried. Sagan danced to the drums. We were in an amphitheater with hundreds of other people.
I was baptized on Holy Saturday then my grandfather passed away on Easter Sunday. I still don't know what to do with that. The incredible, profound exhilaration of coming home to the Church followed by the shattering, hollowing loss of the only grandfather I ever knew is going to stay with me for a long time.
The solar eclipse was the most powerful spiritual moment I experienced this year. While most people were looking up, I discovered thousands of smiling crescents on the hexagonal sidewalk underneath the canopy of our Cuban laurel tree. I called out to Nina and her friends, Angela and Hannah, and together, we gathered along the sidewalk, marveling at the magic, wonder and mysticism of being bathed by God's light. I felt enveloped by beauty and reassurance. Then a month later, as I walked out of the Kol Nidre service at CBS in the middle of a thunderstorm, I noticed how all the golden raindrops on the black pavement also had crescent shapes. The rain never let up as I drove across the county home and I could barely see the car in front of me, but, again I felt enveloped by beauty and reassurance.
I am trying to be a more positive person amongst all the negativity in the world.
Lee and I have been chanting pretty regularly (Jewish renewal-style like I learned at Adamah). We have found it centering and grounding. It's an antidote to anxiety and despair. It gives me a positive soundtrack that rolls through my mind during the day. It's a powerful tool to cultivate gratitude and equanimity. We've been singing Que Sera Sera a lot because so much is out of our control this year (as always) and this song makes us feel better.
Our trip to Aspen to visit Moshe and Rachel was particularly wonderful and beautiful and seeing nature at its best is always spiritual for me.
I'm not exactly touting this as spiritual, but I had a particularly rough day while working in Denver. I had started looking at jobs back in Charlotte. I ran across a CFO job at the Charlotte Symphony where I had temped in December and January. The Finance Director passed my resume along to the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center after our conversation. That day, when I got home, I was in the back yard smoking a cigarette. I looked up and saw a double rainbow. For whatever reason, I googled "meaning double rainbow". I read that double rainbows represent a change in course. Because I looked that day, I ended up at the BPAC a month later; very happy about the new job I might add.
I would say that having good, healthy, regular sex with someone I love deeply is a spiritual experience.
Very little. Again, I so want to feel my mother's presence, and I feel somewhat empty without having it or much else in the way of a spiritual experience this past year. I am more and more desperate for some kind of spiritual connection in this world and beyond. With such angst in the political realm, and now having a chronic illness and the empty nest after my daughter's departure for college, I need experiences where I can feel some joy, serenity, peace.
Seeing the total eclipse of the sun in Oregon was a spiritual experience for me. What an awe-inspiring sight. So unlike anything else I've ever seen. And it was a sort of pilgrimage to get there. I had a lot of challenges making my way to Oregon to see it. Finally ended up renting a small plane and flying up from California. The flight up was challenging - very poor visibility much of the way from smoke from forest fires. Worries about whether there'd be room at an airport for us. But it all worked out and truly was a wonder to behold. I also rebelled against the rabbinic opinions that you don't say a blessing on seeing a total eclipse because it's considered a bad omen. I don't believe in omens in that way - and how could I have witnessed something of such wonder and beauty and not be moved to thank God?
Att bring Lorenita’s Church - Metropolitan Baptist, in DC. For her services it felt so right, her death was not dead but a transition to be with God. It helped to rationalize the belief in God. She had planned her transition, or rather to be ready to die/transition. Even the word makes it more okay, or unknown or scary. That death doesn’t have to be painful, unknown, or scary. That we can think about preparing by reading and thinking about the biblical stories that teach a way of life and death that is meaningful and purposeful. Makes me want to meditate and pray more. To be centered and calm, and positive and hopeful.
I have made a decision to reconnect and explore my Jewish heritage and I'm enjoying doing this.
One cultural experience that I have had in this past year was at my summer job as a camp counselor at Derby Academy. After the camp was over, the staff have a night where we would gather and have a small show. This is similar to the way that campers are encouraged to display their talents and/or ‘talents’ during the noontime show. The only difference being that the staff show is actually impressive. Being an arts camp, the employees are for the most part talented dancers, actors, singers, musicians, and artists. The specific cultural experience that I am referencing came from one of the staff members that I did not particularly like. Her name was Verna, and she was a semi-deranged black woman in her sixties. Throughout the camp, she was patronizing and needy, to say the least. She would treat the first year staff more like campers than co-workers, which did not do much for her amiability. However, during the show, Verna introduced me to a type of rap that I had never really been exposed to before: slam poetry. I thought that it was amazing how she presented her own story as a black artist through rhythm and words. I was able to see that the crazy old lady bit was just an act, and I was able to empathize with her for the first time.
I learned about 7 habits and big rocks and I'm trying to incorporate more of that into my life - specifically spiritual practice, as inspired by Harry Potter and the Sacred Texts. So, listening to that podcast has helped me become more spiritual, with the idea that I could make something other than the Bible a spiritual text.
Going to the Western Wall was one of the most spiritual experiences of my life. I can not begin to say what it did for me as a person to touch the wall that our ancestors touched, stand where they stood, pray where they prayed. I loved everything about my trip to Israel this summer. I loved sitting next to the IDF soldier with his rifle. I loved looking at the Arab women in their head scarfs, the Orthodox Jewish Women and their elaborate head scarfs. It was truly an eye-opening and soul filling journey. I will go back time and again.
None
Witnessing the solar eclipse and knowing that we are very, very small compared to the great universe, that there are forces we are unable to control and that there is great beauty in nature that we witness everyday.
In moving I left a wonderful UU church in Flagstaff and have not found a new church that meets my needs like that one did. I have joined the UU church here and am putting effort into doing my part to make it more like what I found so fulfilling at my former church. I think it is up to me to do some work here. We have made a lot of new friends here - through the University and our neighbors. That has proven to be spiritually uplifting.
There have been different events in this past year, but I think many of them have been related to being in nature (watching a stared sky, going to the lake, looking at sunsets and the volcanoes, the beach...). They have inspired me to pause, breathe, write, enjoy
The earthquake in Mexico City felt like one of the most spiritual experiences i've had this year. After having days to sit and reflect on that entire experience, one thing keeps coming back is a question that C1 asked me on the day of the earthquake is "did you ever think we wouldn't make it" and my answer which was - no. After experiences like this, i'm always filled with intense gratitude and have an overwhelming feeling of this is not my time to go. This woke me up to really stepping into my purpose of helping others and taking advantage of the short time we have on earth without taking it for granted. It was the kick in the pants I needed to work hard to leave this world a better place than how I found it.
Not really, as of yet. I'm still praying, reading my Bible and worshiping though, and I believe this will allow me to grow closer to God.
Learning to pray at IKAR. How to beg for the ability to be grateful.
I don't think I had a spiritual experience this year that I can think of. Kind of like last year, I've been going ninety miles a minute and haven't really taken time to look inward. I would like this year to try to experience something like that. Maybe I could try my hand at meditation, or try to get back into yoga. (Actually, I would like instead to get into boxing, which seems counterintuitive, but then again maybe I could find something spiritual in that too.)
Yes, in a religious way. I started going to a christian church instead of a catholic. I am loving it! During my first day i felt happy and at peace. I want to grow closer to God and I felt excited and eager to listen.
Sometimes watching my kids make an intellectual leap or tell a joke or problem solves feels spiritual.
A peregrine falcon came to my backyard and followed me around. It even sat beside me unafraid. I offered water and it didn't drink. After awhile it left.
The week after the election I went back to church for the first time in 40 years. ( Unitarian) it has been extremely helpful to feel a sense of a community, to connect with people in such a positive way, and to think about the sermon/readings on a regular basis. I had no idea it would make such a difference.
A few things come to mind. The first is the island. James convinced me that the house was crowded in July and we should just bring a tent and sleep in the front yard. We pitched it in the front right, near the copse of trees at the cliff's end. Every morning, we would wake up to the sound of crows. Nearly every day, it was the same call. Three caws, answered in a far away tree by another, then four more. They'd go back and forth on this call and response. It felt like, if we'd stayed longer, we'd learn the language of the crows. Then we'd zip open the tent door and just stare at the view. On nice days, that meant water of the bay and gulls and fish, blue sky, bobbing buoys. On foggy days, it meant the dull and pressing grey of mist, the cliff just edging off into nothing. Waking up took a while, needless to say, and always felt peaceful and like whatever was happening, this was just ours. Our moment to appreciate where we were and all that nature surrounded us with. And of course, our moment to get to know the crows.
Normally, I'd describe a religiously spiritual experience. However, considering my lack of attention to that area of my life, I haven't really had very many impactful spiritual happenings. This summer, though, I had a really cool moment in Guadalupe Mountains National Park. I have to give a bit of backstory first. I had driven from Phoenix. I drove through a storm for a few hours on the way there. I was really nervous that I was going to have to sleep in my car instead of camping. I left the last major city and began traveling down a long, barren road in the middle of a strange biome. It was like a desert-meadow. I passed through a border-patrol station with a nice man who asked about my exciting travels. As I continued through the strange tundra, the sun began to shine ever-so-brightly. There was bright evening sun on my left. To my right, there was the lingering storm, dissipating, but trying to hold out and stay intimidating. I began to see the formation of a rainbow in the stormy clouds, all the while, there are still bolts of lightning threatening my oncoming. I legit saw a double rainbow next to bright bolts of lightning. As I continued driving, I approached the Guadalupe Mountains. They weren't necessarily awe-inspiring, but they were quite beautiful. They were unique, and I've never really seen mountains like them...not in person anyway. I took a winding road up to the park campground entrance. I got there just as the useful daylight was disappearing. I had to choose a campsite, because it was first-come-first-served. I had a hard time choosing because there were so little trees in this desolate desert. I finally found one, and noted the campsite number. So, finally, my moment: As I was walking back from the deposit box to my campsite to set up my hammock, it hit me: I'm really cool. Bear with me here. All summer (and before) people kept telling me how cool I was because of my summer adventures. I drove to Phoenix, Arizona from Charleston, WV. Along the way, I pitched my hammock at different national and state parks. I took long roads and saw a lot of beauty. I flew to Germany and saw history in ruins of castles. I drove through the hilly roads of Austria and Italy to see structures I never imagined I'd see. I studied owls in the Chiricahua Mountains, where I held these tiny creatures and contributed to research that's helping save them. I met awesome teachers on this research trip and learned so much about my profession. I grew in my confidence. I played volleyball with strangers in 120 degree weather, and I became seen as one of the most hustling players there. I drove by myself and screamed meaningful lyrics at the top of my lungs when there was nothing to look at for hours upon hours through the desert. I did a lot of cool shit in a matter of 3 months and several thousand miles. As I reflected on all that in this one moment, I looked up at the ever-so-clear sky full of stars. I could see more than I ever could at home. I thought about the day I had. I drove through that storm, just so sure I'd be drowned by the rain, exiled to my packed Subaru Forester. Instead, I drove down that beautiful long road of desert-meadows. I saw lightning next to a double rainbow. I took in all of creation around me. God's beauty astounded me all day...and all summer, honestly. And in that moment I felt completely a part of that beauty, His creation. I would humbly deny peoples' attempts at, "Emily, you're so cool." But, I finally realized. I am. This was cool. My summer was so freaking cool. I'm forever changed by it. Guys, I'm cool.
Im not really a spiritual person, but watching my dad die might be the closest thing to a spiritual expirence. Seeing him in so much pain and not really present was heart wrenching. Telling him it was ok to let go and wishing for an end to his pain while still secretly deep down inside watching his breathing and praying that it continued. Knowing that he was going to die while still hoping for him to just open his eyes and be better instead. Having to confront death and what lies beyond, when I believe that nothing lies beyond. It was all too much. I miss him so much and hope that I'm wrong and there is an afterlife and he is watching us. Still with us in a way. I don't know. I had a dream a few months after he died. The whole family was on vacation in this house. My dad was busy with a conference or something and had to keep going off with some monks so he wasn't around much. I wanted to announce to the family that I was pregnant so I waited for him to come home and then told him that I needed him. I had an announcement to make. He seemed so happy, like he knew what it was and he said he'd be there. When we went to make the announcement he wasn't there. He had to leave early for a meeting with some monks. I didn't want to say anything without him there but I told everyone anyway. We were happy, but I was so disappointed that he wasn't there. It's easy to interpret that dream, but it doesn't make it any easier. Just thinking of his presence in that dream, it hurts. I miss him so much and can't believe that he is gone. It's been months and it still isn't quite real. It's like being in that hospice, knowing that he is going to die while still hanging onto a different reality where he might get better. Only now I'm living in a reality where he is dead still clinging to an idea of a world where he isn't. So I guess if that was a spiritual experience it has broken me in two.
I found that I really enjoyed volunteering with Beakerhead and that I want to keep doing these sorts of things in whichever community I am working in
I am happy to say that I experienced as close to a spiritual moment as I probably get this year, and will remember it for the rest of my life. On Katten Island, in the archipelago of western Sweden NW of Götenborg, I climbed to the top and experienced the surrealism that I've experienced only a few other times, all in nature. The sense of smallness, the sense of wonder, the pure, unadulterated admiration for the raw beauty of the views I had at the top of that rock only inspire me to seek out those feelings more.
It seems cliche to identify my spiritual experience this year from the ~only time~ I have ever been to an Asian country. However, I think I feel most spiritual when I am contemplating death, which I did plenty on my family's recent trip to Vietnam and Cambodia. We went to a lot of temples, so that's part of it. But while in Cambodia in particular, we learned a lot about the Khmer Rouge genocide, visited a prison used for torturing former Khmer Rouge officers who were accused of being CIA or KGB operatives, and went to the killing fields. It was hard not to relate this experience to visiting concentration camps in Poland, since that is the only other visceral experience I have had with genocide. It was hard to come to terms with the medieval torture methods that were used in the late 1970s. I had to grapple with the fact that violence of this degree is quite present throughout human history. We didn't "progress" away from it after the Holocaust, and I'm sure these types of things are currently occurring in North Korea; we just don't know about them. Learning these things puts the phrase "never again" in new context, because of course this has happened again, and again, and again. It is hard to find hope in humanity when you see that violence and hate is inextricably linked to all human societies.
My roommate is an Adventist. This is a new experience once again. I've been living with atheists, Catholics, Jehovas witnesses and now an Adventist. I love to get to know new believes and interpretations of the same religion. In the future I'd like to continue this openness.
Going to concerts (particularly Local Natives) has really been incredible. They allow me to take a step back and focus on nothing but the feeling of being in a group and the music pulsing around me. While it is impossible to replicate the feeling of a concert on your own, it is a reminder to take a step back and treat yourself to the time and space you need to clear your head.
One morning I was drinking my tea and was overwhelmed with this feeling of love. It was like a cloud surrounding me and it held me in this blissful place for a while. I found out later that morning my grandmother had passed. We had not been close these last many years but I now know without a doubt she had love for me.
The zoo continues to feed my soul and make me hopeful. Caring for Cary, watching him change and grow is pure joy and I am grateful to God for the blessing of my family. Church continues to be a drain on me. I am working on my compassion and I do love the people at Grace. I find myself starting philosophical discussions at meetings which are enlightening but challenging. I struggle to be understanding of those whose faith experiences are different than mine and I pray to God that my words do not hurt anyone. Oh yeah, I've read the New Testament completely and am working through the Old Testament slowly. For the first time in my life, I am not afraid to read the bible for fear of it being something I cannot agree with. I am trying to place the stories in context to see how they have influenced the faith (and mine). I am still continuing with the Yale courses on line too. I don't see this effecting me spiritually as much as intellectually. I'm happy I can read it without being challenged in faith. God protect my faithfulness and thank You for all my blessings. Thanks for the guidance about my issues with cleaning. While I wouldn't call the eclipse spiritual it was one of the coolest things I have ever seen! I can only imagine how ancient peoples might have reacted to eclipses!
Spiritual experiences. My life revolves around them living in program. The biggest? My willingness to move and grow even when it is incredibly painful and "presents" as easier to follow status quo....
Yes, I did experience an impactful spiritual moment when I met with our new rabbi over this past summer regarding my inter-faith family. I am a Jew by Choice and the questions kept coming up about our son and if he was Jewish. My rabbi responded saying that all souls get to pick their lives based on what they need and want to continue their growth. So he knew exactly the life I want for him and he chose me as his mama!! There were other major topics discussed as well that morning that helped open my heart and mind to "prayer" and talking to Gd aloud with my husband.
Honestly my most spiritual moment of the year was having lunch in the canteen of the hospital in between tests and an older lady, whom both her and her husband had cancer, telling me that this must all be happening for a reason, something I was meant to learn. What I learned is that we are completely alone. I was born and will die alone and cannot hope for anything from anybody even in the most dire of times. After my recovery and birthday I went on a retreat which was lovely and peaceful, where I could have all the time for myself, but still be of help to others . I took the experiences and goals back with me
Nothing really
I live in a spiritual community and am finding more and more solace in the quiet. I've also engaged again in Solo Performance and finding lvoe in that community as well as through cycling and triathlons.
No. And I struggle with it. I want to be spiritual. I remember being spiritual. I liked it a lot. Now my brain just feels so rational. It's like hitting a really flat note. But I don't know how to get it back. I've kind of tried. The only spirituality I truly know is evangelical Christianity. I feel like I've escaped a cult. My eyes have been opened and I just can't go back. I see the flaws, the wishful thinking. I realize it could be a comfort thing...and I'm OK with that. Sometimes we all do irrational things because they're comforting. Religion is comforting, sometimes. But something within me won't let myself do it anymore. I call bullshit. I ask too many questions. I find numerous reasons to write it off forever. I'm bored by it. But I miss it. I miss the order it gave to life. I like rules. Now I drift and question. It's probably better for me, more challenging, but something in me feels wistful as well.
I believe that my handling of the Haitham situation was spiritual. I'm a naturally impatient person and the way I've been able to have faith and believe its going to be okay and that God has a bigger plan sometimes surprises me.
Being alive? Breathing? People being thoughtful, when they Are? Having cataract surgery was An exercise in sensory Expansion; Colors became more vivid; The surgery itself was SO interesting...like a Fragmenting stained glass Geometric painting. Relief, after Liam was born The wonder is real: how Liam's presence has softened Cole, who has been loving and sweet to his baby brother... Relief, after the eye surgery Both had something spiritual in them.
I have absolutely become closer to my higher power, and my internal spiritual creature through a regular meditation practice, and intentionally creating time to be outside in nature (hiking in forests, going to the ocean, sitting by creeks and streams). It has solidified my commitment to create this intentional time as it also helps to ground me and connect me to others from the snails I don't crush on the path to my apartment in my haste to get from place to place, to the clients I provide services to in a crisis clinic, to my interactions with my friends, family, and pets.
No
I'm 31 and I am still ever evolving. I don't think I've had any big "spiritual" breakthrough. But I am every day trying to be a more understand and compassionate person. I did start running and I love it. I guess you can call that a spiritual experience.
I am so not a spiritual person. UUMN conference in Arlington had some great moments of musical ecstasy. The music--gospel style with liberal religious lyrics--was powerful and passionate. Singing at the culmination of the conference, at the Sunday worship service, was as close to pure joy as anyone can experience. The joyous memory was darkened by the subsequent discussion on the listserv about whether it's coopting the music for it to be written and led by a white composer.... I have strong feelings about the contagion of musical ideas. It is one thing for a white industry to steal compositions by composers of color and make millions off them, and another for a composer to absorb and use musical styles and themes. Different cultures have infected other cultures all through history, resulting in the rich, exciting range of music available to all of us. Other spiritual experiences? Seeing morning glories shining in the late summer sun. The drift of daffodils in the front yard. The punch of sensual sweetness of a ripe fresh fig eaten while weeding near the fig tree. Knowing my daughter is safe on the East Coast and away from the craziness of the Korean peninsula. My spirituality is woven into the day to day, conveyed by my senses and filling my soul with the beauties of the world. The feel of cool, clean sheets. Their scent. Greg's arms around me.
I make no separation between secular and spiritual. Everything is spiritual. That's one of the greatest truths I've internalized this year. It's affected me by helping me be present to everything happening around me. Nothing is unimportant or "small." Everything belongs, as Richard Rohr says. This knowledge has made me aware that God is at work in everything and everyone. When it looks like people really screw up or seem to fail, I'm able to say "They are just on their journey and they'll be okay." I'm more able to let go of angst, discouragement, and stress.
I've always been a spiritual person, but lately I find myself oddly drawn to religion...not as it's practiced by organizations, but what it is at its core. There's a truth there that I'm ready to discover.
My cousin and her granddaughter died within about a month of one another. Through their death and talking we relatives I have not been in touch with a long time, I have been able to forgive things that have happened between us in the past.
There hasn't been much in that department. I've seen a few cool shows but not much has really affected me. I'm pretty sure I'm depressed.
Hearing my daughter say that she had contemplated suicide has changed my world and put my family first above all else. It's made me think about religion - what if she had some kind of faith? Would that have helped her? I continue to explore these topics with her.
I have started meditating and i hope to continue to do this when i am reading this again.
I have found an outstanding church home here in Seattle. It is different than the kind of church I thought I would be drawn to, but it has the best real community I've ever experienced in a church setting outside of camp. I look forward to finding new ways to contribute to this new-to-me community in the coming year. I also got to witness the total solar eclipse with family, and it was every bit as mind-blowingly awesome as everyone suggested it would be.
I guess I have had mini-moments - one of the reasons why I enjoy going to Mass. Good homilies allow me to reflect on what my responsibilities are and how I can do things differently and to appreciate the everyday ness of life more. This question is helping me to realize that so much is happening around me - spiritually - that I'm probably missing. A reminder to be more in-the-moment.
I want to say this is probably my biggest accomplishment this year. My experiences have come from within. I read alot of what people believe in, especially the things that have no answer, like is there a God, what happens after death, who am I, things like that. My own internal answer to these is that I dont know if there is a God or not. I want to believe there is a God. It makes me feel comfortable and safe, but the word God bothers me because its putting all this all power and ability into one word, which makes it identifiable but it cant be identifiable. My feeling is that there is this force, feeling, energy that is in all living things including the earth and universe. This force, feeling, energy helps connects all of us. When you feel that its like WOW. But doesnt happen every second. Only briefly. But I feel this energy is everywhere like a Spirit the religions talk about. God or higher power cant be named or described but I know its there. I just want to identify it which is causing my frustration. I believe each religion adds to my understanding of this spirit that is everywhere. So I am on a mission to try to understand what each religion can teach me about this spirit. One of the ones I am attracted to is Taoism. Ying / Yang and harmony. It talks about this energy but doesn't want you to praise it but understand it. I am not secular, or a humanist or an atheist. I am something else that doesnt have a word yet. I dont want people to believe in what I do, but want to know why people believe in what they do believe in. Its an exciting journey for me now. I look forward to more.
It was a bit more than a year ago now, but singing at GALA, in a sea of queer people from all over the world, was an incredible experience. I didn't expect to so immediately feel like part of a greater community. It was deeply affecting, affirming, and cathartic to be there. I wish it happened more than every four years.
I am an elder in my church. I have watched how God has moved a whole congregation towards one community and has led everyone to make meaningful decisions. Personally, I am learning to trust God more. I have faith for the big things, but not as much as I would like for the smaller things.
Something that has been bothering me recently is how much I don't care about religion or spirituality these days. I used to feel so passionately about religion and being close to God, but at some point I lost that passion. My feelings have mostly just been apathy, and I'd probably describe myself as being areligious or even agnostic. A few of my friends are very religious, too, and I have trouble understanding things from their point of view now. I kind of want to get back into religion, but the sorts of people that Christianity attracts clash with my philosophy. I like Christianity as practiced in the Bible and as taught by Jesus, but I don't like most organized Christianity because many (but not all) of those people tend to be bigoted, close minded, and conservative. Anyway, the point of all this, was at some point, I asked God for help, not really expecting anything, and out of nowhere the phrase, "Not all who wander are lost," popped into my head. I couldn't get it out of my head, but I also couldn't quite figure out what it meant, so I googled it. I was surprised to find this phrase comes from Tolkien. The full poem is - "All that is gold does not glitter, Not all those who wander are lost; The old that is strong does not wither, Deep roots are not reached by the frost. From the ashes a fire shall be woken, A light from the shadows shall spring; Renewed shall be blade that was broken, The crownless again shall be king." Perhaps ignoring the last line, this poem really resonated with me. Basically my interpretation is that, even though I've strayed from religion, I am not lost and will return. My belief in God is so deep rooted that even tough times like these will not destroy my faith. I am still working on exactly what my religion and belief system is, but receiving these words from higher up really helped strengthen me and give me hope.
About a year ago I was moved into action by all the murders of black men and I started trying to speak up. Blogging, sharing resources, talking to people about it and it's felt a little like a spiritual experience. I've spent a year being involved in many different areas, learning as much as I can and trying to bring others with me. Interested to see where I'll be in the work for a year.
No spiritual experiences. This year I have searched for God. I seek him. I want him near me, my husband,my children, my country, our world leaders. I want to feel his presence. I believe he exists. I seem to miss him. He seems elusive to me. My prayer this year has been "Lord have mercy, please have mercy on us". Where are you my God? Why do you feel so far away? Donald Trump, White supremacists, racial dividing, Hurricanes Harvey and Maria have caused so much destruction, pain. The earthquake in Mexico and now the Las Vegas shooting. There has been so much pain and torment. I wonder if this is becoming hell. My God you feel so far away.
Overall I feel more connected; and more confident about leading my own life. I trust that I will achieve everything that I have come to do in this lifetime.
I realized that I have no faith and no belief that I will be saved by Jesus. My friend is dying and he and his wife have tremendous faith that this is a transition to somewhere greater. I'm happy that they believe that, but I'm going to miss him, and I'm having trouble believing his death has a purpose. Maybe it does. I don't know.
Not really spiritual, but I started taking drawing classes for the first time in probably 40 years. This is my attempt to find my creative eye, which I completely lost when dealing with PTSD for 7 years. I loved photography, and was getting better, but the PTSD took it all away. I don't pick up my camera because I just don't see thru the lens the way I used to. I don't know if I'll ever get back to photography, but this is a start...and I'm really enjoying it.
Interesting dream with animus integration. Consistent with feelings of increased confidence, authority, force. Also living more authentically at work. Not being too much persona, more normal me. I wonder if anyone else had noticed this change but I feel like I’ve relaxed. Though perhaps should curse less.
Well, I learned how to meditate. That's something. The trick, you know, is--you have to cut yourself off for the past, not just the future. Only the present exists. I see last year I cited poetry; this year let's add In Memoriam A.H.H. to the list.
Like last year, the recurring 11:11 (my mother’s birthday) on the clock seems to be a spiritual sign, I need to find the proper emotional response to it, and decide why it happens or what it is telling me. I have also had the opportunity to engage in conversations with several people (some very close to me and some mere acquaintances) to clear the air or to reconnect deeply. There were a series of these conversations that felt like a clearing. Some were just to settle or balance my emotions. Others, more deeply really helped to strengthen bonds with some loved ones. Each one resulted in a lightness of my being. Spiritual or not, they fed my heart, mind, or soul. I appreciate that.
The last summer storm in the city was my first in the city. That morning, a young man in the elevator glanced at my legs, then said he wished he’d worn shorts. At lunch, walking from the office kitchen to my desk desk, passing twenty somethings who work in comedy, I felt a searing loneliness, the first in longer than I could remember. The closest thing to it was like a pang of hunger, but instead of in the abdomen, higher in the chest. Between tabbing through spreadsheets, I took the company ‘Safety Czar’ online training. I clicked into scenarios and came upon scenes in which someone was suffering a heart attack, heat exhaustion, a chemical burn, a laceration, hypothermia, or was just passed out on the floor. The same almond-skinned clerk with with short dreads kept having customers feeling faint and lightheaded in the cartoon grocery store where he worked. In each scenario, I checked for hazards. I removed a chair near someone seizing on the floor, turned off a burning Bunsen burner, clicked on shattered glass. I asked the suffering individual for consent for me to help, or checked them for responsiveness if they seemed unable to respond. In the latter case, consent was implied. Depending on the situation, if there was someone else around, it was generally wise to send for them to call 911 before administering help. 797 miles north and 296 miles east, Mom was downtown, walking toward her parked car. When she tripped, her left hand went out to catch her fall, snapping the bone between the elbow joint and the shoulder. I placed my hands on the chest of a woman, a man, others, and for each clicked 30 times at a rate of 100-120 clicks per minute, opened their airways, held down the mouse for a one second breath, a two second breath, and repeated this process. On my bike ride home, the city had that Dorothy about to enter Oz atmosphere. The air was muted, people focusing more on scurrying instead of their phones. A young man whizzed past on an electric skateboard. The raindrops started to fall at the final intersection. A tall, affable person in bright turquoise pulled up beside me and commented about the change in forecast. I grinned, pushing past him up the hill, and as I prepared to turn, out of the corner of my eye, I saw something that was not the spark of a cable car. Then, thunder. Inside, there was no cat. I called her. She’s an indoor cat, old. She wouldn’t dare climb out the window, not even onto the fire escape of our second story building. Drops of sweat cohering, dripping from my brow, I dumped in the darks, sloshed blue Tide, 11 quarters. Hurled in the whites, Tide, 11 more. 32 minutes. I combined the garbage bags into one, snatched recycling, tiptoed down to basement, skirted the fruit flies. I tied together a slick compost bag and tossed that as well. I stripped and hopped in the shower, then devoured red salami topped with crumbled goat cheese on saltines with raw carnality. I got a text from Dad. Mom broke her arm. The mixture in the fruit fly trap had evaporated, exposing an island of convex glass in the center of the jar, surrounded by little black corpses. I called, asked for Mom, and began to boil water. “You know, I take the minutes.” I peeled the thin rubber band and plastic wrap from a mason jar, swilled around the nearly evaporated mixture of apple cider vinegar and black fruit fly bodies, diluted it with tap water, lifted the drain catcher, and dumped the jar. “And, you know how it is, when you’re falling and everything’s slow and just thinking, oh, no!” I fetched a clean mason jar, poured a half finger of vinegar, a drop of dish soap. Then I tore a fresh piece of plastic wrap, its soft molecules unsticking themselves across the jagged lips of thin metal, like cheese separating from an ascending slice of pizza. I stretched the plastic over the jar, secured it with rubber band, then bored six holes with a nail from the windowsill, big enough for the fattest of the flies. “There was a car driving by, I was so embarrassed I got up quickly. I made it to the car, and you know, when I had to change lanes, the blinker, I had to use my left hand, and that’s when I felt the pain.” I lifted the pot of boiling water and poured it on the black, synthetic, coal-black coils inside the lid of the red ceramic compost lid. Anything, dead, living, or on its way to living, was scorched and flushed. “Tears were just streaming down my eyes, and the people saw me coming in through the window, and they told me to take a seat—they saw me standing in line at the urgent care clinic.” Washed the ceramic compost container, swirled it with dish soap and water, rinsed, swirled, rinsed. Washed the old mason jar, sponged with dish soap and water, rinsed, swirled, rinsed. Boiled more water. “Anyway, just email me your flight information.” Thunder outside, drops applause on the courtyard through the kitchen window. On the other side of the apartment, soaking on the sidewalk, a man sucks his cigarette in one hand, the other wrapped around his jacket. In the bedroom, black, familiar shapes await. The cat was under the sofa, crouched in the furthest corner of the hardwood floor. “I will. Mom – Mom, it’s storming in San Francisco. Thundern’ lightning. The rain – it’s really coming down now.” Gleaming white lacerations like cameras flashing lazily across chest, the walls, spotlighting swaths of skies “Yes, I will. Okay, bye now, love you.” Varicose veins in the negative, horizontal across the off-black, city-lit thighs. Each a split-second signature, demigod scrawls. Behind, my bofrriend had arrived and was changing in the closet, body spectral in the streetlight. Realized with glee that the loneliness like hunger was a true metaphor, lived, validated. This brought joy. Pulled up a seat by the bay windows, opened just enough. Joy.
This past year, I decided to choose myself meaning, I am chasing my dreams.
Mommy, always Mommy. Ruby has her eyes, kind of her hair. Ruby's labor and birth qualifies. So intense, quick and good. Water broke, felt pop while peeing, went to lie back down on coach, then felt like I had to pee again so I got up and woosh. Contractions started really quickly after, right away were a couple minutes apart. Well, I did ask her to come early (she was 8 days early)! I was so tired of being pregnant. Working on Long Beach Literary Arts Center has been rewarding, requiring compromises but mostly good development. So happy with writing! Pretty good with parenting, though worried about Asher watching too much TV. As long as he has other methods of relaxing, destressing, etc., should be okay.
Well - again no. But then, I'm not sure I'd recognize a 'spiritual experience' if it bit me.
If artistic/cultural works - then yes, I have had a spiritual experience this year! My 71st birthday was AMAZING! We went to NYC to see our daughter and COME FROM AWAY. The show was unbelievable; one of the best pieces of theatre we have seen in a long time. It was followed by HAMILTON that evening since our daughter won the lotto for front row tickets! It was everything I had thought it would be. . .and more. Having a catharsis is unusual; having 2 in one day is almost an impossibility! But I did!!
This past year I had a spiritual moment when I was crowned Miss New Jersey. It was as if my soul left my body and was watching it all happen. I was walking but couldn’t feel the floor. This same feeling happened when I was called into the top 15,12,10,7,5 and 3 at Miss America. It’s called a pure high on happiness and it’s addicting. I am so grateful to have had two moments in my life this past year where I was able to experience this feeling. I hope everyone at some point in life can have this same feeling. I also hope I feel it again too.
My spiritual experiences have seriously lacked in the last year. I don’t think I’ve practiced meditation or yoga even once (despite my mat being unrolled on the ground in my plant room). Since the recent dentist’s discovery regarding my stress levels, I’m starting to think that it should be something I strive to dabble in again next year. The closest I got to a secular spiritual experience would have to just be the peace I find in my hobbies: listening to podcasts, learning about plants or doing my own gardening, cooking and baking, and especially playing volleyball. There’s something beautiful about seeing myself (as well as my team) improving little by little each week.
Most of my answers this year relate to the Camino. I am not a religious person, I don’t believe in the existence of a God but walking the Camino was a spiritual and special experience. One that will live in my heart and mind for the rest of my life.
I haven't attended any artistic events, because I am just struggling to cope and survive everyday life with Yuan. I tried to take him to the Yaoi something exhibition (polka dot lady) but it turned out to be the last day and extremely crowded and I have got overwhelmed by the crowds. I didn't want to wait for an hour to be admitted into the exhibition, so I have returned my ticket and we went home... I haven't attempted anything artistic apart from that. Well. Actually mediation can be spiritual and I have done one meditation course with Deepak and Oprah this year or maybe two? And there is one more coming up in three weeks time. Meditating always calms me down!
Something happened to me even while I was in the process of writing the 10Q answers... It was a week ago yesterday actually, and I feel like I am processing it better than I did at first, but I still don't fully understand it. My boyfriend and I had been on a sunday hike between two quiet villages outside Dublin - we arrived at Killiney train station at about 5pm and there was practically no one there, just a teenage girl, two men way off the other end of the platform and us. I remember being frustrated that we'd have to wait about 20mins for a train, and we nearly sat inside but ended up heading outside. Thank god we did. We started hearing odd wheezing noises from the end of the platform where the two men were, and at first I said to Pierre "are they homeless? just really drunk?" - one of the men had slumped on the other who seemed to be on the phone. Pierre spotted before I did that something was wrong... we headed over to them and realised the standing man was on the phone to an ambulance, but there didn't seem to be much urgency in his demeanour or the ambulance worker's... The other man was slumped on the ground kind of drooling and eyes unfocused, but it was so hard to tell what was wrong with him or how serious it was. After that everything seemed to happen at once and I couldn't say whether it was 5 minutes or 30 seconds. The man suddenly started turning blue, and I was relieved we'd already called an ambulance but wondering why everything wasn't happening faster - why wasn't the paramedic telling us what to do?! Surely going blue isn't a good sign. Then a train pulls up and people are walking all around us, and gathering round and shouting advice/"why isn't he in the recovery position". The man said an ambulance was coming and got on the train... even now I cannot fathom how he did that. I normally have such faith in emergency services, but something just felt wrong, something felt not urgent enough, and all this while the man was going bluer and bluer, dribbling with his tongue horribly swollen. It was an awful sight. Pierre was running around trying to get people back on the train and the young teenage girl and I decided together to call another ambulance. Why the fuck didn't the first one listen?! Anyway eventually the second ambulance showed up, after me and a kind stranger spent what felt like a lifetime giving him CPR while a faceless paramedic on the phone counted with us "1,2,3,4 - at least twice per second - don't stop until the crew physically take over from you, 1,2,3,4". All the while I was looking into this man's face and wondering...is this what death looks like? It's much more real, physical, visceral than I'd ever imagined. Somehow a person dying looks just like a person living, I don't know if there's such thing as seeing the life go out of someone's eyes. It also made me think - whoever this man is (or was), he never would've though that his life might end at 5:13pm on the platform of Killiney railway station, surrounded by strangers he'd never met, who were trying to help him but totally out of their depth. Wouldn't you want to die surrounded by your family? But then, I realised, what difference does it make? Whether he dies here on this platform or in hospital or in 50 years' time, death is death, it's a tiny fraction of a long, long life. When I die it's all the years before that that will matter, not the final moment. It makes me realise even more than the best thing any person can do with their life is touch others' lives. I heard an off-hand idea in a tv show that 'it's about how much good you put into the universe' - I quite like that idea, that each time you do something good it kind of dissipates into the world, and into other people's lives. And in that sense it remains after you die, whether it's when you're ready or not, whether its in the way you imagined or not. Wow...
Yes. While recuperating from my left knee surgery and dozing horizontally on Ritzy's couch in the sunny living room, I distinctly heard a woman's voice say, "You are mine". It occurred just prior to my Auntie Peggy's admittance into the hospital and ultimate passing. I was asked to sing at her funeral at St. Brigid's church in Lexington, MA. Learning appropriate songs with brother Robert's help was amazing. Initially, I didn't think I'd be able to perform this task, not because of the emotional possibilities but of the vocal capabilities, or lack thereof. It ended up being quite good and I'm grateful for the opportunity. And one of the songs included was "I Have Loved You" by Joncas with the line... "I have loved you,with an everlasting love, I have called you, and You Are Mine"
Moving back to California after being in Dallas for 10 years has been a transformative experience in itself. But during the road trip, a stop at the Grand Canyon has really stuck with me. I drove with my aunt and cousin, and I'd been saying I wanted to get some kind of souvenir from a roadside stand. I passed stand after stand, and finally my aunt asked me if I still planned to stop. I said I would when I felt it. When I finally stopped at a random stand, my aunt was a little skeptical because we'd passed many "nicer" and larger setups. But the woman at this particular stand was so warm and talkative, I knew I'd made the right decision. When we were looking for our trinkets, we wanted our favorite animals like a butterfly or a lion, but the woman gently urged against it. When we asked her why, she ended up giving us a very accurate reading of our spirit animals. My aunt is a turtle, a nurturer who carries the world on her back. I am a fish, fluid and adaptable, always going with the flow. Since then, we've embraced our spirit animals and the words of wisdom she gave us.
Yes. The most powerful spiritual experience I had this year was on my vision quest. I came into contact with my own death, in a very beautiful and comforting way. I was not afraid of it. I let some precious things go out into the universe, and in doing so I have actually found them. They will remain with me, to be found whenever I need them.
My 200 hour YTT and pretty much everything leading up to it and after it have been quite the experience and initiated what will be a lifelong journey to forget what needs to be forgotten, to play in my darkness and my light, to heal myself and to heal the world.
I think that spirituality can lie in a relationship with another person - helping them through a challenging time, sharing their joy, etc. When we connect emotionally and can feel someone's pain without them telling us about it, that's a form of spirituality. This summer, my best friend and I had that kind of connection. I think I felt spiritual when I took care of him, helped him through tough moments, and shared uninhibited joy running around campus and being super silly. Having a bubble of connection is spiritual for me.
Giving birth to my daughter was incredibly powerful. It was fast, wild, intense. I hallucinated from the experience, and it was not all that painful (unmedicated!). I feel so powerful and accomplished since then. It was amazing. I feel this has given me the confidence to do much more with my life.
Reading torah on Yom Kippur. So Fin cool. I made a couple of mistakes and lost my place, but it has been a very long time since I stood and chanted torah in front of the entire congregation. Being on the bimah was such an experience. It was an intimate moment with me and the torah scroll. It was somehow more powerful than my Bat mitzvah. "Today I set before you good and evil".
I am not a spiritual person but the more I learn about the universe and life, in general, I think our energy just continues on in a different form.
Open Dharma Meditation retreat was amazing. Through that very short period of time, I gave myself the chance to listen in, to deeply rest, and to feel into what my body and my mind told me I needed. I realized I needed to give myself more time to be with myself, to relax and work on my personal things - my health, my music, my education. It's been hard to actually apply all this. I still spend too much time in front of a computer, and it's hard to let go of Full Time income. However, it did guide my decision to let go the studio idea and give myself some time to think and replan what I do. Also reminding me that I really do want to go back to school and get truly educated in a field that interests me.
I have especially appreciated being in nature this year - - from my back yard to the national parks - and feeling connected to the world around me with all my senses has been a spiritual experience. Also, the deaths of my niece and my brother-in-law have me thinking about my own legacy. What do I want to do, how do I want to contribute, who do I want to become, before I come to my own end of life? What do I need to do today to move in that direction?
i've become this unabashed artistically driven person. not just in the last year but over the course of 10 years i've explored what it means to be spiritual. i've come out the other side as someone who is unrecognizable from the person I was before marriage and kids. i often wonder if i hadn't gotten married and devoted so much time to motherhood and a failed marriage would i have become me sooner--in spiritually and artistically
Attending Getting the Love You Want weekend and learning to shift my attention to the other person's perspective. Creating a larger field of vision my including POVs other than just my own. Exodus from mitzrayim - the narrow place . Teshuvah - returning to my safe self away from my reactive self.
I think I was able to re-engage with both my love of learning and reading this year; those have often been "spiritual" experiences for me and I have lost touch with them in the last few years. Education carried such painful memories for me for so long and it was such a joy to find myself enjoying school again. I made a goal of reading more this year and have achieved that, as well as getting the NY Times every Sunday and doing the crossword with Daniel (a magical experience on its own). I also feel I finally found a Passover Haggadah that works for me and that this was one of the best Passover's I have ever hosted. I look forward to continuing to build on that in the coming year.
Yes. Spritual or Other. In spite of way too much negative thinking and fear-driven inaction, for some reason the Inner Hanging Judge left again, and instead of freaking out, i reached outward to what I wanted instead of The Shoulds: Right bow very happy w/ 2 volunteer gigs, instead of looking for paid work that i'd prolly hate. Still on and off looking for paid nonprofit work, but not frantically. Really truly feel better in my skin, happier in the moment .... letting myself actually BE IN THE MONENT.... Dealing w/ kids, messy house, cooking and cleaning - it's soooo much easier w/ anvil of depression/anxiety/guilt on my head!!!
There were moments during High Holy Days when I felt a connection to my spirit as well as to my congregation. It doesn’t always happen so I am deeply grateful. The prayers touched my soul.
Besides the daily act of going to work and counseling people who have lost their way, I walk out of my door every day and because of daily mindfulness meditation, cannot escape (if I would want to) the beauty of fresh air, of the scent of the seasons, and the joy of my dog's experience of me and the world. This is a growing awareness of the spiritual world that exists at the same time as the mean, violent, disrespect some humans perpetrate on others. This creates a heightened sense of the spiritual.
This year has been a long unspiritual slog through a landscape of unthinkable event followed by unthinkable event. Our corrupt thief-in-chief and his racist troll friends are pillaging our nation and breaking the gears of our democracy. Living daily life while watching a thing you love be slowly dismembered isn't real conducive to spirituality.
Two significant spiritual experiences are: 1) Participating in the Women's March and observing generations of women passing along wisdom, strength, and hope. Seeing mothers walk with their daughters was a powerful reminder that Life is bigger than this man or this moment in history. 2) Being with Tom in the hours before, during, and after his death were a momentous spiritual experience. At five months I still don't have perspective from which to unpack this. I imagine the coming year will offer some insights, answers, and probably more questions.
Went to Israel, it had a big affect on my views of religion and the world
Well, I joined the Charlottesville Municipal Band and have been playing at rehearsal every Tuesday night and at concerts every month or two. I didn't realize how much I missed making music until I was back into it, and I'm so glad I am! Can't wait for our next big concert in November :)
Ew I don't want to mention my ex relationship, but I guess that was a spiritual experience. It was so strange to see myself feeling that way about someone, and letting someone contribute to my happiness, given how independent I am and how self reliant I want to be. But that was spiritual and deeply moved me.
Teaching my daughter about justice through a Jewish and holiday oriented framework, and seeing it affect her has been pretty close.
I think I have had creative experiences, in my inspiration for our wedding decorations and in how I do my bullet journal. Both have been quite positive. I guess I have also had a spiritual experiences through dreams. Sometimes they involve people who have passed away, or who I am worried about passing away, so I always wake up thinking about them. I don't know if this affects me positively or negatively.
I write. I am a metaphor person. I think I see things more clearly when I am looking at something else. I have had some very blessed experiences in writing this past year, things that have helped me to see more clearly and to grow in understanding. I see these as graces, gifts.
My mother's death was a journey of spiritual love, courage, acceptance, and grief. Still working through the grief and the loss. I fully expect to carry the sensitivity of the scars and the emptiness through the rest of my life. May my heart never be hardened.
I've discovered an inalienable truth to life: there's nothing quite like the love between mother and child. It's indescribable to those who've yet to experience it. The world melts away when I'm with Leo. Every finger and toe, the smile in his eyes, his breath on my neck, the way he clings to me, every noise, watching his personality develop--every single moment is filled with so much love. Moments of pure frustration and exhaustion exist of course, but they're fleeting. I'm amazed at how the love grows deeper everyday.
Fuck spirituality.
I think my spiritual experiences have yet to come, but will be here soon. When I move into my own place in 2 weeks, I plan on practicing a lot of meditation and yoga, and trying to fully understand who I am to the Core.
Not particularly so. The Nubble Light Challenge 2.4 mile swim in Maine felt spiritual to me. The light, the coolness of the water, the view, the camaraderie of it all. The culmination of training and anticipation for months, finally realized into this sunny, salty, pristine experience. I felt focused, alive, and incredibly happy. Yet, it was not easy! Another was seeing the Agnes Martin show at Guggenheim. Her work is spiritual to me. Painting after painting, seeing her progression, her truth, her thoughtfulness. Her colors, her shapes, the subtlety and the depth. Most importantly, her intent to create the feeling of peace, gratitude and happiness that abound when one is in nature watching the horizon lines. The final was watching the horizon line on a misty August day taking the boat back to Portsmouth. The horizon was foggy and opaque, and yet so apparently clear. The only visible break in the horizon was the occasional brightly colored lobster buoy. The experience felt so calm and the horizontal horizon line and foggy colors were reminiscent of Martin's work.
I don’t think so. I don’t think I’ve done much to foster these areas of my life in the last year. Which is an important observation, I think.
I think it is the meditation camp that I took this April. :) I really love the peace and silence that I experienced during the camp. I made new friends, had a wonderful time with monks!
Immersing in the mikveh was a really beautiful experience for me, and I truly felt joy, gratitude and contentment in that moment. Reading from the Torah on Shabbat for the first time at my synagogue's women's retreat was also very moving—I was so nervous, but I also felt sincerely loved by all of the women in the room.
The closest I came to a spiritual experience was backpacking in the Sierras with my husband and daughter. I find the mountains to be a therapeutic setting and sharing it with the two of them was amazing.
I have had a number of experiences that were spiritual. I have expanded my social group including a group of women from UUCW. I have gone to the Tap Roots Spiritual group from UUCW. I went last year and made a few movies this year in the MKE Film Festival, which is full of eye opening and mind expanding movies. AND I am still in the Sisters of the Golden Spiral group where there is an intention set monthly and we all have a day to keep that intention and share that. I get to services at UUCW when possible and find that spiritually rewarding.
i've experienced moments of grace, when i felt the presence of a higher power. these moments weren't in particularly special or beautiful settings, or even during distinct experiences. but in these moments, i am completely present; i have total faith in a natural order and i feel held.
This year I realised that I feel closest to G-d when I'm standing in front of the ocean. Something about the way you can stand in front of the waves and feel like there's nothing and no one behind you- that it's just you there. I feel like I get to have a one-on-one conversation with G-d and that I'm in a safe place where I'm heard. I've been blessed this year to live in a place so close to beaches and so accessible. It's given me more opportunities to speak my mind, to ask forgiveness, and to heal and forgive myself.
The spiritual experience I had was through High Holy Days this year. I've been questioning G-d, feeling angry, resentful, hurt, just broken. I was so tired of feeling like that and having to confront that not just in the world but within me and my own life. But I just kept on...I didn't and still don't understand everything. However, I feel as though I have grown through the experiences I have dealt with and it was reflected in this Aaliyah honor I was offered with my new congregation. I was supposed to go up and open and close the Ark but I was nervous and timid and afraid and I missed out. Then I was given the opportunity later to not simply open and close the Ark but read a page in the service in English, but still quite spontaneous. I did not want to enter the year with missed opportunities and regret so I accepted. I know this was a big honor and there were a few people I didn't know but nevertheless helped me through it...even if it seemed small like walking me over to the person who would prompt me or the actual person who prompted me and was kind enough to let me sit next to her with my big ball of nerves. Life is full of the unexpected and we can fight it or we can embrace the surprises and allow others to help along the way...keeping in mind the first step is within us to accept.
