While enjoying lunch recently with the rector of an Episcopal Church near my home, I was asked a seemingly innocent question. It was one of those questions meant to be a kind of conversation starter. My colleague inquired, “What’s new in the world of psychology?” I rambled for a few… Read More »Spiritual Imperialism and Spiritual Practice
It was 1975. In a classroom with about three dozen college freshman, a simple question was asked: do the means justify the ends? Morally, does achieving a result that is good allow an individual to do anything it takes to achieve that good result? Is it moral to kill people… Read More »A Means to an End
Dear Bill: From the years when you hosted a show on network TV, I’ve respected your commentary and insight. You’ve provided clear, objective critique of political issues and maintained a good sense of humor in the process. Your positions are generally well informed and demonstrate critical thought. Given that your… Read More »An Open Letter to Bill Maher
April 22: Earth Day. Since 1970, this day has been set as an opportunity for the global community to inspire awareness and appreciation for Mother Earth and her diverse environments. Awareness of and appreciation for our planet requires that we learn to live in more sustainable ways on the Earth.… Read More »Earth Day and Sustainable Spirituality
Spirituality is the dimension of being human which enables us to create, discover, or encounter meaning, purpose and value in our lives. Spirituality opens us to experiences the richness of life which is more than the sum of the things we actually do. Spirituality is related to the quality of… Read More »Spirituality, Ethics and Financial Reform
Over the past month, I’ve read a number of different blogs and spent time on Twitter in attempt to understand how writers on spirituality are using technology. Much of what I read could be described as “spirituality lite” because it is characterized by affirmations, positive thinking, and a wealth of… Read More »Spiritual Growth: Where Does it Lead?
The movie, Avatar, presents multiple opportunities to consider spirituality. In this last posting of a three part series, I will consider the most dramatic illustration of spiritual growth which is embodied in the main character, Jake Sully. A former Marine who is left paraplegic from a battle injury, Jake replaces… Read More »Avatar, part 3: Open to Harmony
Having received raved reviews, the movie Avatar has proven to be an award winning movie which has left many people spell-bound, returning to the movie not just because of the special effects but because of the moral story found in the movie. While the movie provides a mesmerizing entertainment experience,… Read More »Avatar: What is Worth Living For?