What is Self Mastery? - Part 4
Now, let's cover the last component of self-mastery, which is
spiritual health. Sometimes, the discussion of spiritual health
is considered "politically incorrect." This is a shame, because
we want to live life to the fullest and cannot ignore our
spiritual side.
It is also interesting how many people try to improve their
spiritual health when they have a near death experience, are
diagnosed as terminally ill, or hit "rock bottom." In each of
these instances, we can suddenly connect with the concepts of a
moral code, after life, God, or "putting things right."
Whatever your situation, take the time to reconnect to your
inner self and seek spiritual guidance for the sake of your
overall health, family, and relationships. It doesn't matter to
me which religion you choose, as long as you feel, in your
heart, that it is right for you. Religion should not be a
dividing point for mankind, so stay away from intolerant
fundamentalists.
Which brings up the act of forgiveness, which, in and of itself,
is good for spiritual, mental, and physical health. Just by
reconciling with our family, friends, and associates, we stop
wasting energy and improve our overall health.
Practice random loving kindness with your fellow man. Help
others and don't expect anything in return. Give to charity for
the reason that it is right to help mankind.
Appreciate what you have and see it for its true worth. Your
past accomplishments are to be enjoyed, and not to be put aside.
When you help someone, get through a difficult situation that is
also an accomplishment. You don't have to speak about what you
accomplished, but knowing that you have taken the time to be
kind is satisfaction, in itself.
See wealth for what it is. If your family and friends love you,
that is a priceless treasure. You do not have to be rich in
order to be happy. Most of the rich are less happy than you and
I. Imagine having the recognition of people around you, for no
other reason than money.
The last point to make, about material wealth, is that we are
only temporary custodians of money. If possible, spend it
wisely, help others, and leave something behind for the next
generation. If you have no money to leave behind, at least,
leave good thoughts.
Mindfulness allows us to peacefully live in the present moment
and concern ourselves with the now. You will stop wasting time,
feeling anguish about past shortcomings, as a result of
mindfulness. You will also stop wasting your energy, by worrying
about situations that may not happen in the future.
Most of what we worry about never happens, but the mind never
stops creating negative thoughts, even when we sleep. Take the
time to be mindful and listen to the world empathically. You
will then know who, or what, you can help first.
Make peace with your inner self by learn to accept yourself "as
is," and do not make it conditional. If you need to make
improvements, to yourself, you are not alone. Take the time to
enjoy each day, as if it was your last day on earth.
Set aside time to pray or meditate daily. This will enable you
to open a spiritual connection with your God or the universe.
Prayer is a form of meditation and meditation is a form of
prayer. If you take the time to pray, you will be heard and
don't be surprised, if you get help.
As a result of these physical, mental, and spiritual exercises
you achieve self-mastery. Just don't forget to help others along
the way. You don't have to be a "master of your own destiny" to
help mankind.