I appreciate your patience for the silence in this feed. As the new year begins, I will have plenty to share... and that is what I am working on in the silence.
I am putting together a 12 part guide called, How to be the Modern-Day Mystic. It will provide monthly teachings that include an Intro to Mysticism, then a class on how we are (often) called into Mysticism- how did you get into Mysticism. From there, monthly topics (below) will help us form and grow our Mystical Practice. Take a look at the outline:
HOW TO BE A MODERN DAY MYSTIC
Being a modern-day mystic involves embodying a deeply spiritual life while remaining grounded in the realities of the modern world. Mysticism transcends religious boundaries and focuses on direct, personal experiences with the divine and universal truth. The following guidelines introduce us to and help us embrace the path of a modern-day mystic. Each month we look more deeply into these topics:
1. Developing a Spiritual and Contemplative Practice (on-going)
- Meditation: Spend time in stillness to connect with your inner self and the divine. Explore practices like mindfulness, transcendental meditation, or contemplative prayer.
- Prayer or Intention Setting: Communicate with the divine in your own way—through traditional prayer, journaling, or speaking aloud.
- Rituals: Create daily or seasonal rituals that align with your spiritual beliefs, such as lighting candles, using sacred objects, or observing natural cycles.
2. Studying Sacred Wisdom (on-going)
- Opening oneself to the sacred texts of various traditions (e.g., the Bhagavad Gita, Bible, Tao Te Ching, Quran, and mystical works like Rumi's poetry or the writings of Meister Eckhart and Paramahansa Yogananda).
- Finding your heroes- whose practices and writings call to you most?
- Explore modern interpretations of mysticism through works by authors like Thomas Merton, Eckhart Tolle, or Richard Rohr.
- Learn about mystical traditions like Sufism, Kabbalah, Vedanta, and shamanism.
3. Connect with Nature (On-going)
- Spend time in natural settings to attune yourself to the rhythms and energies of the earth.
- Engage in practices like forest bathing, stargazing, or working with the elements (fire, water, earth, air).
4. Cultivate Awareness and Presence (On-going)
- Live in the present moment with full awareness. A mystic sees the sacred in the mundane.
- Practice gratitude and see every experience as an opportunity for spiritual growth.
5. Serving Others
- A mystic's life is rooted in love and service. Share kindness, compassion, and healing with those around you.
- Volunteer, provide spiritual guidance, or simply be a source of peace and understanding in your community.
6. Work with Intuition and Energy
- Explore your intuitive abilities through practices like divination, energy healing, or dream work.
- Learn to trust your inner guidance and listen for the subtle voice of the divine.
7. Integrate Spirituality into Daily Life
- Approach work, relationships, and even mundane tasks as opportunities for spiritual expression.
- Maintain a balance between inner exploration and outward responsibilities.
8. Embrace the Mystery
- Mysticism is about living in awe of the great mystery of life. Accept that not everything needs to be understood logically.
- Be open to the unknown and trust the unfolding of your path.
9. Build a Community
- Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who support your journey.
- Join spiritual circles, interfaith groups, or online communities where you can share and learn.
10. Follow Your Unique Path
- Remember, being a mystic is not about fitting into a mold. It’s about walking your own path with authenticity and devotion.
Hopefully this will give you something to think upon, and I'd love to hear your discussion on these topics!
Embrace the Divine In Your Life!!