My simple definition of spirituality is to live life with Spirit. Yes, there are many techniques, ideas and approaches, beliefs and paths to develop yourself spiritually, and most of them can be massive illusions and detours unless applied in your life in real and practical ways.

In this culture of making the deal, taking the shot, getting on top, two simple human qualities that can be, and need to be, developed if one has any claim to be on a spiritual path – instead of a mental masturbation of self-congratulation – they are the qualities of generosity and appreciation.

How often do you give – anything – when you do not have to or need to? How often do you say “thank you” for the smallest thing given to you or done for you?

I have given up altogether on encouraging people to say “please”. It is a dead, archaic word in America, whereas “thank you” is merely on the endangered species list.

Be clear: I am being solemn and serious about this. To practice the discipline of asking with a “please” and receiving with a “thank you” are as powerful and important as any spiritual practice you will ever encounter. Both bring you into the present, to be present with the person you are with, to appreciate the present asked for or given, and to give respect and honor to the other person’s boundaries and right to choose.

In doing this, you will grow your own awareness of how, where and to whom you give or not, and why, and in that you become much more aware of your value and where you share it.

In all of this, you are brought more and more into the central experience of being alive, of sharing, and of flowing with others in generosity and gratitude.

Note that generosity is the same root word as “generate”, and through being generous you generate yourself more in life and generate more for yourself.

Gratitude, likewise, is based on the same word as “great”. The more you have and show and share greatitude, the more you will develop your own Greatness, and the more you will appreciate (i.e. increase in value) life itself.

Be grateful for each new day you have life, for the people in your day, every moment and experience it brings, and hidden veils of unconsciousness will part to show you life in much more beauty, clarity and splendor.

Gratefully, and with great appreciation.

 

 

 

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Australian Gregory Charles is an astrologer, a personal growth and spiritual leader and alternative healer who has appeared in the national media in many countries (MTV, Good Morning America, BBC). His astrology clients have included Dr. Hunter S. Thompson and Carmen Electra. He has delivered sex and relationship seminars to tens of thousands of people around the world and is a guest lecturer at CU Boulder. Gregory is available for personal guidance and astrology readings.