  Spiritual
This week: The Spirituality of Play Edited by: Sophy  
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Hi, I'm Sophy ~ your editor for this edition of the Spiritual Newsletter. This week we'll return to the Spiritual Literacy Alphabet to take up the letter "P" for Play.
The Rev. Scotty McLennan, author of the book "Finding Your Religion," compares humanity's innate need for spiritual searching to climbing a mountain. In his view, we are all endeavoring to climb the same figurative mountain in our search for the divine, we just may take different ways to get there. In other words, there is one "God," but many paths. I honor whatever path or paths you have chosen to climb that mountain in your quest for the Sacred.  |
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P is for Play
I, God, am your playmate!
I will lead the child in you in wonderful ways
for I have chosen you.
Beloved child, come swiftly to Me
for I am truly in you.
- Mechtild of Magdeburg
It is a happy talent to know how to play.
- Ralph Waldo Emerson
Continuing our occasional series based on the Alphabet of Spiritual Literacy by Frederick and Mary Ann Brussat, we move to the spiritual practice of the letter P for Play, which is described on the Spirituality and Practice web site as follows:
Coyote. Nasrudin. St. Francis and his order of Jesters of the Lord. Zen masters. Taoist sages. Hasidic storytellers. Clowns and performance artists. Such prophets - and all the spiritual traditions have them - encourage us not to take ourselves too seriously. They say that what we know is not worth knowing, and what's worth knowing cannot be known through our ways. To our sensible selves, their actions seem silly, shameless, even shocking. But they have an important role in the spiritual life. They carry the banner for the spiritual practice of play. Play is the exuberant expression of our being. It is at the heart of our creativity and our most carefree moments of devotion. It helps us live with absurdity, paradox, and mystery. It feeds our joy and wonder. It keeps our search for meaning down to earth. Practice play by doing things on the spur of the moment. Take time out to experiment, to try on different parts, to relax. Laugh heartily at jokes, situations, and yourself.
It's summer where I live, which is traditionally associated with vacations and play time. I remember as a child counting the days until school got out and my summer vacation began, because even though I enjoyed school, I also loved the freedom summer vacation brought. During the school year I yearned for the play-filled days, running around with neighbor kids, engaging in make-believe in the backyard with nothing but some dirt and a spoon, laughing with friends, and staying up late/sleeping in. It always seemed to arrive at just the right time to offer a respite from the hard work of a long school year, and end just when I was ready to return to the structure of school again. There was a nice balance to it.
As adults, most of us no longer enjoy the pleasures of a summer vacation (and some kinds no longer do either if they are in "year-round" school), and while some of us are fortunate to get to take a week or two off work each year, nothing compares to the lazy summer fun of our childhood. (Maybe that's why some of us become teachers - so we can continue to enjoy our summers off!) But there is something spiritually nurturing for our souls in the rhythm of time on/time off, which is why it's important for us to continue to seek it in our adulthood, perhaps even especially then, so that we can achieve the same sort of balance in our lives.
That's where the spirituality of play comes in. Whether it's laughing at an afternoon matinee comedy, running through a sprinkler with our kids, or dragging a stick along a picket fence - we all need a bit of playfulness in our lives to help balance the seriousness to which we must also attend. We may not have the freedom that summer vacations of our youth offered, but we can still play in a number of ways. And the best part is, there is no right or wrong way to do it. The essential part is to make sure it's something fun, that we enjoy, and if possible spontaneous. And then, just play!
Recently we had a puppy staying with us. It had been a long time since we'd had a puppy, and we forgot about the exuberant abandon of their play. Daisy literally through herself into everything she did, and even though it was exhausting at times (for us more than her!) there was also something life-affirming and inspiring about it. We took her to a nearby park one evening to wear her out for a good night's sleep, and I'm not sure who ended up having more fun -- Daisy or me. While my husband was playing fetch with her, which she enjoyed thoroughly, I wandered over to the playground and started swinging. I hadn't been on a swing in years, and I'd forgotten how much fun they can be - pumping your legs to make yourself go so high the chain shudders and jolts when you reach the peak of the upswing, and then the feeling racing backwards. It was exhilarating, and served no other purpose than my own enjoyment. And joy.
We can also play in our writing - I remember contests from the past on WDC that encouraged us to play with words by writing intentionally bad poetry that made us laugh. Or maybe write a comical/satirical piece to tickle our own (and others) funny bones. The greatest criticism of religious and spiritual people is that they take themselves too seriously. Perhaps you might write about the role humor plays in your faith, and why is it important to you. Or maybe you could write about the last time you truly let yourself go and abandoned yourself fully to play. What did it feel like?
Whether you have a summer vacation or work 40+ hours a week year 'round - whatever your life situation, remember the importance of making time to play alive whatever your age. It not only keeps you young, but it also enhances your spirit. In the comment section below, share some ways you keep play as part of your life - perhaps it will inspire others.
Until next time, Sophy |
Below you'll find recently created spiritual items from around the site. Please let the folks know if you read their piece by leaving a thoughtful comment or review.
First a few from "The Writer's Cramp" following a prompt about what one finds at the end of a "road less traveled:"
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And a few others from around the site:
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#1796055 by Not Available. |
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Have an opinion on what you've read here today? Then send the Editor feedback! Find an item that you think would be perfect for showcasing here? Submit it for consideration in the newsletter!
https://www.Writing.Com/go/nl_form
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Here are some comments from my last Spiritual Newsletter on Midrash, "Spiritual Newsletter (June 29, 2011)" :
From NOVAcatmando 
I have read some good spiritual newsletters - but this was the most fascinating one to me ever!
Wow, very high praise. Thanks so much for your kind words - glad you enjoyed it!
From Sarder 
The impact point of this newsletter is very useful and effective to learn many formal ideas that will certainly increase writers writing skills. So, my question is you dear Editor, can I submit any of my writing to this newsletter for publication. Then if it possible it will be increas my drive power.
You most certainly may submit a spiritual item for publication in this newsletter. Just use the box down there  and put in the item ID#.
From KimChi
Wonderful newsletter, Sophy!
Loved the explanation, examples, and assignment. Judaism has so many lovely traditions; thanks for highlighting the symbolism and introspection of the Midrash.
You are welcome -- it's one of my favorite traditions as well.
From Ԝ€ß☆ԜiʈCH...I am Home! 
Wonderful and informative newsletter, Sophie. I learned something new today. 
Thank you for highlighting my item, "White Balloons" . It is appreciated!
WW
Glad you learned something new, and happy to highlight your lovely item.
From Mia - craving colour
Hi Sophy,
I always look forward to the Spiritual Newsletter you edit. This one is no exception. Though I didn't have time to read it when it first came out, I kept it - as the subject of Midrash is one that fascinates me.
This evening I took the time to dip into it and immediately recognized the name 'Miriam Therese Winter'. I've got one of her fabulous books on my shelf, complete with her amazing artwork.
You've written another thoughtful editorial and added to my understanding of 'Aleph'. Thank you.
 Mia
So glad you enjoyed it, thanks for letting me know!
From ANN Counselor, Lesbian & Happy
I love to learn NEW things and your piece on Midrash taught me something I had never heard before. You write so very well; I can clearly understand. And, It is something I want to try, to experience. Thanks for the lesson and the challenge. And, Sophie, thank you for your reminders that there are many paths, not just ONE as some people sadly believe. God Is and We Are and we are blessed as we seek to know God on our path in life. Bless you. ANN
What kind compliments, thank you so much for sharing them with me, makes my day.
From Specter
Hi Sophy,
When I read this NL, flags flew out in every direction. Confusion added to confusion equals one well mixed-up world. Why are there so many churches in this world, when there is one God, one faith, and one church? Confusions bring about a multitude of divisions. Truth is not according to man but to God. You cannot base reality upon the imagination of man. Put imagination in the fiction department and keep it there. I don't intend to sound harsh, but this world is in one big mess, going nowhere. The truth would astound this world, if they would believe God...
Honestly, now I am confused. My newsletter was about the tradition of Midrash, so I'm not sure why that caused your flags to fly? Is it because I wrote about something that comes from a tradition other than your own? If so, keep in mind this is the Spiritual newsletter, not a newsletter about any one religious tradition, and there are a variety of editors sharing their views, which may not always be the same as your own. So you may not agree with what's shared every week, but of course you are welcome to express your views. Peace, Sophy
From Tornado Day
Thank you so much for the mention of my piece in this week's newsletter.
This specific piece was one of three that indirectly spoke to the need for storytellers,
that we live as long as one remembers.
You're an angel.........
Bobbie
Awww, thanks so much!
From GRAMPA ED
Midrash article.
Sophy
I am way behind but I promise to read this one when I have much more time. I took a fast read and enjoyed what I did read. I should get a lap top so when I go to the hospital I have something to do besides count cieling tile or watch stupid shows on their TVs. Then I would not be so far behind. Will check in later.
Grandpa Ed
Glad you enjoyed your quick read - thanks for letting me know, and take care of yourself (sorry to hear about your hospital trips).
Please keep your comments and suggestions coming, they are greatly appreciated!
Sophy |
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Spiritual: July 27, 2011 Issue [#4521]
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