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     I want to encourage seekers who belong to a spiritual community to actively cultivate friendships, take part in its activities and seek mentors there.  I will tell you why I think these things are so important.

     First, you have the opportunity to learn from others who might have the spiritual experience and knowledge you lack. Learning is a big part of being a spiritual seeker. 

     Second, by taking part in the rites, rituals and celebrations of your community you broaden yourself. For example: from my growing up in the Roman Catholic Church I got a lot of culture by osmosis, you might say. Mass and Gregorian chant were in Latin. The music was often by great composers (Mozart and Schubert, just to name a few.) My childhood church had mosaics, sculpture and stained glass windows, and the building itself was attractive. Not a bad way to imbibe culture and get spiritual uplift.  Other great religious traditions offer similar self-enrichment.      

     Third, working, praying and meditating with others who are on the spiritual path with you speeds up your evolution as a spiritual being. Practicing charity, helping clean up your community's building, doing special prayers or going on a meditation retreat are some of the ways that you can work in tandem with others to further your growth.

     Fourth, making friends with others who are interested in spiritual life and practice supports your own efforts in that regard. You are not alone, and your struggles and triumphs in the spiritual life can be shared with people who understand and support you. And the community potlucks can be fabulous! 

 

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