Greetings, Inspired Seekers:

There's a lot of talk today about “being woke.” Some is positive, some negative and some, well, pretty snarky. But, fear not, dear seekers, this is not a political newsletter. Do we really need another one?

No, instead, let's ask: what does it mean to be fully awake from a spiritual perspective? In the Christian tradition, “Be awake” and “stay awake” are uttered many times by Jesus to His followers.

Buddhist practitioners tell us that the very name, “Buddha,” means “I am awake.”

The writings in the holy books of the Bahá'í tradition call out “Oh ye sleepers, be awake.”

All of these writings – and so many more – send us a message even without a strong cup of coffee to accompany it: Stay awake to the world and all of creation. Be attentive. This call is not offered in judgment but, rather, I think, as a call to be fully present in the moment, undistracted by those who would draw us away.

The center of all spirituality is, I believe, one's ability to be fully conscious and aware, focused and observant.

And who among us can honestly confirm that we are perpetually rooted in that state? Fully awake? Me? Please pass that coffee!

Our routines dull our senses and lull us into believing that we are aware as we go about most of our days. If that were true, why are we so befuddled by interruptions, changes in plans and the unexpected? Perhaps because our routines keep us in our own little worlds and, yes, blissfully unaware.

The wondrous role of spiritual practice seeks to raise our consciousness, open our eyes and hearts and expand our vision through the next level of full presence. Being fully awake, we catch ourselves when we exclaim, “I didn't notice that.”

This awareness is rooted in moment-to-moment surrender and not simply the result of a strong will. It means letting go of the routine, of the should's, and stepping out. Fortunately, when we accomplish this, we see that the Holy is right in front of us, always beckoning us in love.

So, grab that coffee and stay awake with me!

Grace and Kindness,
Reverend Deborah

Question of the Month: Will you stay awake with me?

The Reverend Dr. Deborah Darlington provides Chaplaincy services and spiritual coaching, and creates and officiates sacred celebrations of all types for all peoples. She would love to have coffee with you along with an intentional conversation! She can be reached at GraceMatters@TheSpaceForGrace.com or at 215 260 1611