I presume that these topics are not often discussed in most of our passing conversations each day. But a person’s individual faith, understanding of theology and how they experience their own spirituality actually links to all aspects of their life, whether they realize of not. Have you ever thought about how you arrive at your daily decisions (large or small)? A few years ago, a police office told me that for him, “Doing the right thing is always easier.” That may or may not be true based upon the consequences of the decision! But I sensed what the officer meant was that for his own conscience and “peace of mind” – doing the appropriate thing was always best, even it took more effort and responsibility!
But have you ever thought about what guides your decision making?
Your morals?
Your ethics of daily living?
How you treat and react to others?
The majority of my life is totally out of my control. I know this may be difficult to believe, but I really did not have any say in what country or state where I was born, who my parents would be, the color of my eyes, or even my skin pigment! That geography and genetics were up to something, someone, much greater than I. But I have learned that I can only really control my own decisions, my reactions to life events and my own integrity in how I behave and live. All else is external happenstance.
Princeton’s David Miller has developed a concept and premise that each of us have an innate spirituality and that our spiritual experiences inform our lives in four major areas and to different extents. The virtues related to ethical decision-making and experiencing a fulfilled life are two areas that I view as paramount in my life, just as it was expressed by the police officer.
I’m a Christian who holds to biblical values and principles of living. The better I understand those principles and remain committed to living them out, the better I feel about myself and my greater purpose and meaning of my life here on Earth. I only have one chance at this life and I have decided to make the most of it each and every day!
A question for you: If you’re totally honest with yourself, how would you rate your present life satisfaction on a 1-10 scale? Are you wanting a deeper meaning, purpose and satisfaction in your life? If so, what do you believe or what have you discovered that may be that missing element? For me, it was going much deeper into my own faith and spirituality which then, almost incredibly and instantaneously revealed many more meaningful opportunities and interests into my life.
I’d love to hear your story.
Chaplain Keith
Note: David W. Miller’s concept can be reveiwed at: www.princeton.edu/faithandwork.
Chaplain Evans 