As I try to grow stronger in my faith some topics become more appealing to me. In the last few days I have been thinking a lot about the spirit.
I have learned in my professional career that it is always a good idea to simplify concepts and use analogies to understand complex issues.
Let' s start by using a definition provided by wikipedia: The English word spirit (from Latin spiritus "breath") has many different meanings and connotations, most of them relating to a non-corporeal substance contrasted with the material body.
I find that definition very useful but I will simplify it even more with just one word: Energy.
That energy or spirit comes from God. Remember how Genesis tried to explain how God gave life to Adam by giving His breath:
“The LORD God formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being” (Genesis 2:7)
Let's clarify that the Bible particularly in Genesis uses a very simple human language in order to explain something very complex like creation to a very primitive civilization.
I am certain that if Genesis were to be written during this century the language would be very sophisticated. Let's try to rewrite the phrase from genesis: God started the process of life on the new being by stimulating his carbon atoms with his energy. Or something along those lines.
So that energy (spirit) comes from God and belongs to Him. It is what gives life to this body that stops working if that energy leaves the body.
So life, as we know it, is the presence of that energy spirit inside of our body. If that energy/spirit is a divine presence in our body, what should we do to take care of it? What should we do to make the divine presence to shine, and how do we show it while still is in our bodies? Is there an exercise or activity to make it stronger?
These questions are very important because we have heard expressions like Mr. Or Mrs Smith is so spiritual. He or she is so peaceful, makes me feel at peace when I am around him/ her.
In other words, we believe that we can perceive the expression of that energy. I am sure that each one of us has been in the presence of someone that just make us feel at peace. Well, I had - my Dad - who could project such a peace and Joy.
I believe that there are things that we can do to take care of that intrinsic component of our being - The Spirit.
- One of the activities important for the Spirit is prayer alone in a quiet place, preferably in contact with nature. Make a habit to just pray by yourself in a very quiet place
- It is also important to just spend time in contact with nature away from the noise of the city.
- Be mindful of your feelings and do not allow hatred in your heart.
These three strategies or activities are commonly used by people that project that sense of spirituality, peace and joy.
If we do believe that we have a spirit, we should take care of it
Believe me it is worthwhile!