It is a common theory that it takes great sustained effort to get into top physical shape and it takes only a few days to get out of shape. Spiritual fitness, I believe follows that same model.  If we focus on our spiritual relationship with God, Krishna, or the Universal Spirit on a consistent basis it too becomes highly developed.  Our intuition is sharper when we focus upon our relationship to the spirit on a daily basis. It is easier to maintain discipline when we focus upon our spiritual relationship with The One on a daily basis.

Conversely when we, for whatever reasons, do not spend consistent time honing our relationship with the Universal Spirit, which most westerners refer to as God, our intuition is not quite as sharp and we become lax. We settle for sensual doughnuts as opposed to steel cut oatmeal, as it were.  We rationalize doing things for the sake of convenience.  We say, this may not be the right thing for me to do but I am justified because…everyone else is doing it or I don’t want to be the last poor honest man in a world full of   scoundrels.

This is my call to arms. We can not fall back into the doldrums for the sake of comfort. We are not meant to be comfortable. Jesus said “I have sown a fire upon the world and now I intend it to blaze.” He did not want us to be too comfortable. He was exhorting us to move towards the spirit.   The most difficult aspect about getting in shape is the start. As Laozi says “A journey of a thousand steps begins with a single step.” Once you start on your spiritual journey or quest, it is incumbent upon you to stay consistent.

I read recently that Americans don’t identify as much with particular religions and there are less Christians in America as a result.   I understand that it is easy to become frustrated with a particular religion or an individual priest or pastor based upon their actions.  Remember, they are human beings having a spiritual experience just like we are. They are not perfect and because of their humanity they invariably will make mistakes. Religion is important because it gives us consistency. At least one day a week if not more, we will spend time in a church, temple or mosque focusing upon our spiritual enrichment.

We need to flex those spiritual “muscles” as often as possible if we are to hone our connection and evolve. We need to find just 10-15 minutes every day and to work on our spirituality.  This means prayer, contemplative thought, focusing upon our breath, mediation, yoga and or reading from our favorite spiritual texts. During those times we need to forget about the mundane troubles that confront us and focus solely upon our relationship with God.  As we increase our spiritual focus, we will find the answers to those day to day problems that we think are so insurmountable.     God is always there for us. We just need to realize that if we reach for him/her, we will be embraced.  Flex those spiritual muscles my friends, the beach season will be soon upon us.