OCCUPY SPIRITUALITY, Questions for Reflection: Introduction and Chapters 1 and 2

[Kim]

~ In the introduction, Bucko and Fox say, "Given today's crises the world over, we can no longer afford to hide our contemplatives in comfortable monasteries. We need to reunite contemplation and action." Does this concept apply to your own life? Where do you see this happening in the world?

~ In chapter 1, the authors pose the question, "Is it time to replace the God of religion with the God of life?" What does this mean to you, and how would you answer their question?

~ In chapter 2, Bucko and Fox define what they mean by the call to "occupy spirituality." How do you interpret this call? In what ways do you occupy spirituality in your spheres of influence?

Feel free to reply regarding these questions, as well as generate your own!

Kim

[Pippin]

It most definitely applies to my own life. I believe that the right action I strive for daily enables me to be a more spiritual being. I see it happening in the world right now as millions march to obliterate racism and urge equal protection under the law. I see it occurring in my practice as a trauma therapist where I can teach my clients to not repeat the mistakes made by their family members in the way in which they treat their own children. To me the God of religion is a God steeped in judgment and dogma because although all great spiritual teachers taught the one basic principle, love one another, this isn't what is occurring in fundamentalist belief systems as well as in neighborhood churches, Mosques, and synagogues. To me the God of life is a God of love and compassion for all, not simply those who believe the way we do. I occupy spirituality by trying to be open to all in a loving compassionate way without judgment and admit that this isn't always easy to do.

[Kim]

Hilary, this is so beautifully articulated. Thank you!

I was raised in a culture in which "the God of religion" was the only one, and this caused me to reject institutionalized religion in all forms. I'm heartened to see that Bucko and Fox, as well as many of us, have re-claimed the language of "God" and "religion" and re-appropriated in ways that better address our deepest human needs.

Kim

[Janet]

YES! I would not characterize myself as a religious person or one who seeks "the God of religion." But I do very much see myself as a spiritual person who can relate to the concept of "the God of life." Well said, Hilary: the God of life is a God of love and compassion for ALL.