We all have reasons for starting a new journey. Some of us have experienced an awakening, a conversion, an encounter, a calling, a longing, a crisis, loss, burn-out or fear. We may be seeking meaning or purpose in our lives or in a particular situation.

Spiritual practices help us to get in touch with the emotions, feelings and thoughts associated with these real-life experiences. They are intentional ways that we grow deeper in our spirituality.

When we intentionally live into our lives, we can experience the sacredness of ordinary life. We can become more deeply connected to all of creation. We can grow in an awareness of ourselves as holy people. We will begin to recognize and identify ourselves as spiritual people and the spiritual dimesnions that are already present in our daily lives.

As we begin this new journey, spiritual practices can be a way to more intentionally live our life. Through these practices, we can move into a deeper and more meaningful relationshp with God, the divine, the Other – our authentic selves, others and the whole of creation.

When we begin a spiritual practice, we must make this pratice a way of life. We must commit to a daily practice. We can’t just step on the path of practice for a few minutes and then jump off to go about the rest of our life. We must integrate our practice into our life.