I hate being disciplined. In my fantasy of what it means to be guided in the spiritual life, to be an artist, a creator, "one who goes with the flow" living a disciplined life seems boring and rigid. There is also some fantasy about being "free" which means that there are no constraints on my self-expression and no structure in my day. In this fantasy way of thinking, discipline impedes this free expression. I wonder how to honor this organic style of expression and still keep harmony and order alive and well in my personal and professional life?

The word "discipline" comes from Old Latin meaning to learn and knowledge. In its origin of meaning, it does not imply rigidity. The beliefs that I have attached to what the word "discipline" mean are mine. I think part of healing from addictive behavior and being of service to others means being open to continue to learn and grow in knowledge and wisdom. To be a disciple of knowledge, of growth and continued learning is a value of mine. When I become rigid in my own beliefs, then it is easy to be "right" and make someone else "wrong" and lose my commitment to be of service in love and compassion. Rigid thoughts can lead to rigid behaviors and the disciplined action that feeds and nourishes me are lost as well.

Discipline is required in the spiritual life. Daily, I am called to quiet. Daily, I must choose to sit in prayer and meditation to be filled up and guided for my day. Daily, I am intentional about my time and energy and choose to engage in behaviors and practices that feed and nourish my body and spirit.

Being as sensitive as I am, daily exercise and movement keeps energy flowing as well as releases old energies that do not serve. Being as strong willed as I can be, I choose daily prayer and meditation as a way to connect with my Spirit Guides and Divine Resource for inspiration and to learn humble action.

My intention for service and healthy living becomes the foundation for discipline that honors learning and knowing. When my intention is to surrender to my higher self and be of service by honoring my passions and purpose, disciplined actions to align with that intention will follow.

When I resist the disciplined actions that most nourishes me in spirit and body, I lose this focus and inspiration. There is something holy that occurs when I choose to engage in the physical, spiritual and relational behaviors that honor my intention and divine purpose in life and when I am disciplined and do so consistently.

Discipline may not always be fun and exciting but I know in my heart and soul that when I engage in healthy and nourishing behaviors, on a consistent basis, that I know bring empowerment and vibrancy to my life, it is in service to all. Honoring those actions to care and nourish myself create the structure for my full self-expression and the ability to surrender to the flow of each and every moment.

Discipline is about learning and knowledge and the discipline of a prayer and meditation time daily is the greatest gift for Spiritual connection that I am able to give myself and others.

With love,

Sally