Like every other aspect of human potential, spiritual development and growth is part of our birthright. As the Buddhist monk Pema Chödrön wrote, “It’s as if everyone who has ever been born has the same birthright, which is enormous potential of warm heart and clear mind.” This is true not only for children but for parents, too. The moment we are “born” into parenthood, our child’s spiritual development—that cultivation of a warm heart, a clear mind, and the capacity for transcendence—becomes part of our shared journey and our birthright as parents.
Following your child’s spiritual journey may transform your entire family. You have the opportunity to hop aboard this journey with your child, and through your child’s journey, to travel on your own journey, as well. Say yes and see where you go.
Miller, Dr. Lisa. The Spiritual Child (pp. 49-50). St. Martin's Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.
Parents can avoid their children's’ questions about religion and spirituality because they think they don’t have the answers. They don’t. That’s okay. Parents can approach spiritual questions as co-researchers and explore possible answers with their children and they both can grow,
The important thing is to recognize and acknowledge that spiritual questions are appropriate and legitimate and deserve respect and thoughtful consideration. Nurturing the child’s spiritual development is one of the most important activities of parenthood and rarely discussed in our modern society.
Unitarian Universalists covenant together to affirm and promote the free and responsible search for truth and meaning. This principle applies to children and adolescents as well as adults. What a wonderful journey when parents and children walk this path together.
No comments:
Post a Comment