Spiritual Metrics

Spiritual practices are subtle by nature, and the end goals hazy at best. So, how do you know if it's working? 

It's a reasonable question to ask, really. "Is this working? How do I know if I'm doing it right?" As if to say, "Show me the numbers! 

Well, I'm not sure about numbers. Your spiritual progress might not fit into a pie chart, but that doesn't mean it's not measurable. But first...

...A word of caution around "measuring"spiritual growth is in order: If you have to ask, it's a clear indicator that more work to be done. 

That being said, here is how you can gauge your  progress...

Gratitude and Awe. Living with an awareness of the countless blessings bestowed upon us. Every moment of every day. 

How grateful are you? Does it take one of the seven wonders of the world to inspire awe and mystery, or can you find it in a blade of grass?

Love. This is a huge topic all on it's own. In short, how much do you love and accept others (and yourself) exactly as they are?  ESPECIALLY the people we don't like or agree with. 

Mental stability. What does it take to send you spinning? How vulnerable are you to criticism and judgement? How susceptible are you to praise?

Giving. How generously and cleanly do you give? Your money? Your effort? Your ear? Your heart? A gift is only a gift when you expect nothing in return.

These aren't skills that are developed by isolating ourselves on a mountain top. These are things we can practice every single day in simple ways. 

Enjoy the ride, 

The Mystic Next Door

P.S. This is what I do every single day to keep my health vibrant, my mind clear, and my heart open so that I can live those highest values a little better. every day. I have another class coming up soon. Ready?  

P.P.S. This post has a companion video here.