Two is not a habit, you know!

Well, not yet. I don't want to even hint at daily posts given my evident history, but I think I've found a good time to blog. Today's entry might be somewhat shorter, given the lack of need to catch up.

Today, I am off to coffee with a friend, spiritual direction, and studying. Always studying. The discipline of spiritual direction may be a new term to some of my friends. No, it is not a commandant, dressed in jodhpurs, boots, and a collar barking orders ever ready to crack the proverbial whip.

Rather, it is someone with whom you build a professional relationship, over some time. It can be a cleric, or other person who has taken religious vows (like a nun or monk). It can also be a person who has walked the path of faith for a while, with whom you develop a relationship of trust. As the relationship develops, they can help point out some "blind spots" in life, in a way that is informed by faith. The goal is to have someone to confide in, who is removed from your work structure, family life, etc., and is therefore able to give some honest perspective, and with whom you can be honest.

Sometimes it can take a few tries to find someone who is "the right fit". Do personalities mesh? Is there an accessible time and place for both people to meet? (If you have to climb a mountain every 6 weeks, or so, chances are it ain't gonna happen.) Ideally it is someone who has training and or experience in the field. Like going to a psychiatrist who does not take care of their own mental health, I doubt I would ever seek the counsel of a spiritual director who was not also seeking direction themselves.

For those preparing for ordination, spiritual direction is a requirement. I'm glad it is, because if it were not, I don't know that I would have engaged in the practise. I'm glad that I have. Should you have any questions about this practise, please feel free to be in touch.

Peace