  Spiritual
This week: Edited by: windac
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"Tell me not the mournful numbers,
life is but an empty dream!
For the soul is dead that slumbers,
and things are not what they seem.
Life is real! Life is earnest!
And the grave is not its goal;
dust thou art; to dust returnest,
was not spoken of the soul."
- Henry Wadsworth Longfellow -
This month's issue is a knee jerk reaction to feedback from a writing.com member regarding another editor's issue of the SNL. Since comments were directed to another, I will not directly respond, though they were great inspiration for this months topic. This person made it clear that they will no longer subscribe due to differing values and views, and sadly, the opinions expressed are not uncommon. Once again, I'm left scratching my head to wonder, just what do people think spiritual means? Hence, definitions of the words spirit and soul follow.
 spir-it (spir'it) n. [<L spirae, breathe] 1 a) the life principle, esp. in human beings b) soul 2 life, will, thought, etc., regarded as seperate from matter 3 a supernatural being as a ghost, angel, etc. 4 an individual
soul (sol) n. [OE sawol] 1 an entity without material reality, regarded as the spiritual part of a person 2 the moral or emotional nature of a person 3 spiritual or emotional warmth, force, etc. 4 vital or essential part or quality, etc.
Somehow, there are those that think these two are unrelated, including the member mentioned above. This confuses, confounds, and yes, irritates me. Having said that, I do realize that each person's journey is unique; we are all at different levels of spiritual maturity. Unless you truly believe that there is life, and then death, and then nothing more, you must believe you have a soul - an unseen energy that transcends after the body dies. If not, I would question why you subscribe to this newsletter at all. But let's take a step back for a moment.
The human body can be summed up in three distinct and separate parts: mind, body and spirit or soul. The mind is that thinking, feeling part of our consciousness linked to intellect. You cannot visualize the mind, though the emotions that drive it are continually evident. The body is that which houses the mind and spirit, along with all the prerequisite organs, bones and fluids necessary for sustaining life - very much visible, tangible, and three-dimensional. The soul is that inner part of us which can be difficult to fathom, much less fully understand, and which has aroused philosophical musings since the beginning of time. It is entirely possible that the mind and spirit are somehow interwoven, but who can say for certain? Having perused the internet for information on the matter, the only indisputable fact gained was this: there's a lot I don't know. It seemed that research brought few clear and definite answers, although I found the following to be helpful.
Courtesy of paradigmassociates.org:
What is spirituality? Spirituality is that part of us which, while anchored in biology, is non-local, universal and timeless, and which yearns for connection with what might be called the mind universal, or God, or whatever term you prefer.
Why do we need spirituality? We need spirituality for purpose, for connection, for the sense of being part of something much greater than ourselves, something awe inspiring and humbling; we need spirituality to fulfil our responsibilities to the web of life. And, we need spirituality for our spiritual selves much as we need oxygen for our biological selves ... to live.
This brings me to the core reason for this issue. There are those who presume that being religious and being spiritual are of completely opposing schools of thought. I would argue that this is a wrong presumption! Here's another definition:
religious adj. 1) devout; pious 2) of or concerned with religion 3) conscientiously exact; scrupulous
You can be of any religion, or of no religion, and continue to strive for personal, spiritual growth, and do it religiously. To reach for that which brings hope, unity, a sense of purpose and belonging, strength, courage and comfort are but some of the things that human beings need in order to enjoy a full, meaningful and contented life. So, if I choose the path of Christianity, does this mean that I'm not spiritual? Hardly. It does mean that I choose the Bible, not a deck of tarot cards, that I worship the God of all creation, not this or that goddess. It means that I search and reach everyday, religiously, to center my heart and mind on the eternal. Not spiritual? I beg to differ. And, if what you've read so far has you chomping at the bit, well then, you've missed the point entirely. This issue does not attempt to argue or debate any religion or belief system. Its mission is to clarify a connection that some, for whatever reason, simply do not see.
Each of the editors of the Spiritual Newsletter has the option as to subject matter. There are two of us that are openly Christian, though we possess our own unique writing style and approach. Puditat  is a straightforward, quick to the point, open book, for whom I have the utmost respect and admiration. She is also extremely patient and kind, with a huge heart and a deep, abiding faith. Me? I tend to take the long way around, and would rather risk making someone angry in order to provoke a different thought process. Although I never wanted to be an in-your-face type, that describes me rather well. Either way, it has always been my contention that no matter your faith or belief, if you are willing to open your mind even a tiny iota, there could be a thought or idea lurking in the depths that can be applied in a positive way to virtually anyone.
I have never apologized for my beliefs, and do not intend to do so now. But, I am exasperated to the point of extreme irritation by those who believe that anything and everything BUT Christianity can be considered spiritual. Most are willing to hear about God, but mention Jesus just once, and their minds close tightly shut with a resounding clank. This is exactly the reason why I tend to take the long way around. But, for the most part, we all strive to understand why we're here, wish to discover our life's purpose, and wonder what awaits us on the other side. From my very first issue I have wanted nothing more than to share that which brings me strength and courage to put one foot in front of the other each day, and not go insane. On that note, I ask that this readership delve a little more deeply, think a little more broadly, perhaps show a little more patience.
On another note, I couldn't let the opportunity pass without mentioning the tragic state of affairs on the gulf coast of the U.S. following the destruction wrought by hurricane Katrina. Please keep these people in your thoughts and prayers, and consider making a charitable donation. If each individual U.S. citizen were to do just one unselfish act on behalf of those less fortunate, we could move mountains! Thanks for listening.
 Until next time, peace be with you!
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Image created by: Fictiøn Ðiva the Wørd Weava 
*All definitions courtesy Webster's New World Dictionary. |
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And now, for those brave enough to offer a difference of opinion, I offer an item from each of their ports:
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Thank you to all who took the time to send feedback my way! Most of the responses were very positive and encouraging, which was a most delightful surprise.
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Submitted By: PastVoices
Thank you for saying words I only echo in a column many times a year! It is hard for me to comprehend those who would have the freedoms but not protect them. Especially my freedom to worship!
Thank you also for featuring one of my old columns along the way!
Thank you Nanette, for your continued encouragement and support, and you are quite welcome. Your article was wonderful!
~~~~~~~~~~~
Submitted By: robi4711
I can sympathize with all you have said, but it is my belief that America's troubles come from drifting away from God. As for voting, I voted; for many years. Then one year, the man who received the majority of popular votes did not become President. The President was chosen by electoral votes, my husband told me. Well, in my opinion, the polls come in with the popular vote. If this is truly a democratic nation and presidents are voted in by the people then the man with the majority vote would become president. This incident told me the people did not choose the president, the electoral votes did. I've lost my desire to vote. Why waste the time when my vote doesn't count.
I agree with you on all counts Lucy, but when it comes to the electoral vote system, it's the only one we have. If you do not use it, you have no voice. It still works, and regardless of what you may believe, your one vote could make all the difference. Thanks for the feedback!
~~~~~~~~~~
In an e-mail from scherpenisse.
The greatest nation in the world, huh? The only nation where people like the Ku Klux Klan and Gay Pride can walk down the same street? I don't know, but you're misinformed if you think that occurs nowhere else in the world.
I'm Dutch, and I'm damn proud of the principles of equality, freedom of speech and freedom of thought that my country is known for. I'm just as proud of our history that can boast such artists as Van Gogh, Rembrandt; I'm proud that our nation, for centuries, has been known as a safe haven to those of different religions and nationalities; I'm proud of our outstanding work in science and technology for which our scientists have won multiple nobel prizes; proud of our health system that provides for all and not just the rich; proud of the fact that no matter what your income, everyone who wants to can get a higher education.
I realise that it is something of the American spirit to think of your country as the greatest in the world. Americans are for the most part fiercely proud of their country, they are brought up on patriottism. And I also understand patriottism - otherwise I wouldn't be writing this email.
But to claim that America, one of the youngest and most inexperienced nations in the world, is the only nation with the foundation of freedom and equality... That's either ignorance or arrogance. You have a lot to be proud of, but you are certainly not the greatest nation in the world. There is no such thing.
I understand your pride; just don't mistake it for truth.
Es
It does my heart good to know Es, that you are as proud of your country as I am of mine. There are indeed similarities, but also vast differences. For instance, if my research serves me correctly and if by Dutch you mean Holland, your government consists of a constitutional monarchy. Does this not mean that a hereditary queen is the reigning official? Does this not also mean that she appoints her own ministry? If true, then your government is not elected by the people - a vast difference from American democracy.
Though America may be young and inexperienced, we also boast our own literary, artistic and scientific elite. I give you Edgar Allan Poe, Mark Twain, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, Frank Lloyd Wright, Benjamin Franklin, Orville and Wilbur Wright, and Jonas Salk, but to name a few. This short list doesn't even touch on those countless brave souls, including Native Americans, African Americans and women that have helped shape and form our nation in such a short span of time.
It is encouraging to know that there are attainable levels of excellence as shown by Holland's health care and educational systems. These are indeed things to be proud of. However, my research also found the following information, courtesy of www.cia.gov: "Major European producer of ecstasy, illicit amphetamines, and other synthetic drugs; important gateway for cocaine, heroin, and hashish entering Europe; major source of US-bound ecstasy; large financial sector vulnerable to money laundering." It would seem that Holland is not all windmills and wooden shoes. This particular point is brought to bear only for the purpose of illustrating that every country has her societal problems.
Your patriotism is to be applauded, but I stand by the opinions expressed in my last issue. You may call Americans anything you like, whether it be ignorant or arrogant, but it won't change the fact that there simply is no other nation in the world quite like the U.S.
Let's call a truce, agree to disagree, and move on, shall we? I do thank you for your feedback and hope you'll continue to share your thoughts and opinions!
~~~~~~~~~~
Submitted By: Dr M C Gupta 
I hereby record my opinion in response to your invitation, though I would have preferred to keep quiet.
Your long editorial eulogizing America might be OK for Americans who might like to blind themselves by the thought that what is America is right and what is not America is wrong.
Ask those who are neither on the side of America or Iraq. They will tell you that
America had no business to commit naked aggression upon Iraq, that, too, after having manufactured the WMD in its imaginary dreams. Even if the WMD had existed, that is no reason for a sovereign nation to attack another sovereign nation. What is worse is that US is non-repentant. Fools rush in where angels fear to tread. However, fools persist in their foolhardy venture while the wise reflect when they realize their folly. I hope wisdom dawns on America. Regrettably, I do not see any sign.
My views about USA are reflected poetically in "WAR POETRY--award winner" . Hope I do not offend you too much.
M C Gupta
Thank you Khalish, for taking the time to send feedback. However, I must remind you that my last issue was aimed at Americans, and unless I am mistaken, American you are not. Though this may sound rude, it is certainly not my intent; I'm merely stating a truth.
Though you have a right to an opinion, surely you must realize that the media has become adept at putting forth only those facts that will sell a story, and on a global scale. Much of the time what you see, read or hear is a very biased, one-sided account. I, for one, have become weary of those who would bash us repeatedly. Believe what you will, but we are not the bad guys here.
As far as the U.S. invading Iraq, what is to become of those poor souls who do not wish to adhere to the rules of a maniacal dictator who thinks nothing of killing his own people? Furthermore, does it never occur to you that the entire planet faces a foe like none other seen in history, with perhaps the exception of Hitler? I refer of course, to the ever-growing nation of terrorists. They have no regard for human life, their sole objective being the annihilation of infidels. There are no exceptions, no middle ground. Unless you believe as they do, YOU are an infidel, a target, a sitting duck.
This, Sir, should concern you and the rest of the world more than the "invasion" of a people who desperately need help. And spare me the anti-U.S. sentiment - these terrorists began their deadly games decades before we went to Iraq. Do you really think these fanatics would stop at destroying the U.S.? Think again - you could be next. But, if they were to have their way, and you didn't have the U.S. to kick around anymore, who would you call on when you needed help?
Like you, I hope I do not offend too much.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Submitted By: loraciel19522
This was awe inspiring. I woke up this morning and went outside to say "Good Morning!" to God. Then I came in here and read this newsletter.
Living in Alaska, we seem to be far away from the rest of the US, and I, as an American, seem to forget that I am a part of the US of A and that what is going on there is a part of me, too. You gave me food for thought and I didn't even know I was hungry.
Thank you. I need to go outside again. {-)}
Carol Godperson
Ahhh, Alaska - the final American frontier. One day I wish to visit this magical place. Thank you for the feedback Carol!!
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Submitted By: Uniqueey
I think we're all in need of reading the message you just brought to us. This country is in need of a revival, to set hearts on fire for God and country once again. Thank you!
Coral
I am so pleased that the heart of this country is not dead... yet. Each of us must do what we can, however small, to keep her alive. Thanks so much for the encouragement Coral!
~~~~~~~~~~
Submitted By: David McClain
Hi Wind, I just wanted to drop you a line and tell you what a wonderful editoral for SNL you have given us this week. I agree with you 100%.
Though you echoed my own thoughts and feelings about the war and about America, you did so in a way in which I never could. Well Done.
Thank you Tor, but I know better - I've had the honor of reading a rant of two of yours. Very articulate stuff. It's nice to hear from you, and I appreciate the support!
~~~~~~~~~~
Submitted By: PlannerDan
Wind, you have expessed my thoughts eloquently and beautifully. What better place to say the things that you said than the Spiritual Newsletter. Very well said.
Well, now I'm starting to blush! I'm thrilled that there are so many that feel as I do. We've got the makings for a good old-fashioned revival right here! Thanks Dan!!!
~~~~~~~~~
Submitted By: Vivian 
Wind, my father served in the Air Force for nearly thirty years, and my son is an officer in the same branch. I don't like war, prayed too often and too long for my son, but I know that anything we're not willing to fight for will be taken from us. Good newsletter.
I'm honored Viv, that you chose to send a personal comment. The American people may have a lot of rights and privileges, but choosing which wars to engage in is not one of them. Thanks so much for sharing with us!
~~~~~~~~~
Submitted By: Kenzie 
Submitted Item:
Submitted Comment:
Wow. This newsletter took my breath away. I hope you'll put these words somewhere where those who don't get this newsletter can see them.
"As writers and artists, we, more than anyone, should be grateful, not only for the gift we've been given, but also for the freedom to use it in any way we see fit."
This is so true. Thanks for remind us.
Thank you Kenzie! Your encouragement means a great deal. God bless you all!! |
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Spiritual: September 07, 2005 Issue [#596]
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