Just For Today | July 5 | Exploring Spiritual Options

“The nature of our belief will determine the manner of our prayers and meditation.”
Basic Text, page 43

The Personal Nature of Prayer

How do we pray? For each NA member, this is a deeply personal matter. Many of us find that, over time, we develop a manner of prayer and meditation based on what we learn from others and what we are comfortable with. Prayer is not a one-size-fits-all practice; it evolves with our experiences and personal beliefs.

Opening Our Minds to Spirituality

Some of us arrive in NA with a closed mind toward a Power greater than ourselves. But when we sit down with our sponsor and discuss our difficulty, looking at the Second Step in depth, we are pleased to find that we can choose any concept of a Higher Power that appeals to us. This flexibility allows us to explore spirituality in a way that feels authentic and meaningful.

Diverse Paths to Spiritual Connection

Just as our definition of a Power greater than ourselves differs from addict to addict, so does our manner of achieving a conscious contact. The right way to pray and meditate is whatever way helps us improve our conscious contact with our own Higher Power. Here are some diverse paths members of NA may follow:

• Religious Services: Attending church, synagogue, mosque, or other places of worship.
• Chanting: Using repetitive sounds, words, or phrases to focus the mind.
• Silent Meditation: Sitting quietly and focusing on the breath or a mantra.
• Nature Communion: Finding spiritual connection in the natural world, such as walking in the woods or sitting by a stream.
• Personal Dialogue: Talking with whatever is out there, expressing thoughts and feelings openly.

Learning from Others

Asking others how they found their spiritual guidance is always a good place to begin. Hearing different perspectives and experiences can open new avenues for our own exploration. Sponsors, fellow NA members, and spiritual mentors can provide valuable insights and encouragement.

Using Literature for Guidance

Reading literature before we enter periods of meditation can also help us. Many have gone before us on this search. As we seek spiritual growth, we can greatly benefit from their experience. Books, articles, and personal stories about spirituality and recovery can offer inspiration and practical advice.

Practical Steps to Explore Spiritual Options

1. Reflect on Beliefs: Take time to think about what you believe and what feels right for you. This reflection can guide you in finding the best way to connect spiritually.
2. Experiment with Practices: Try different methods of prayer and meditation. See what resonates with you and brings a sense of peace and connection.
3. Seek Guidance: Talk to others who have found their spiritual path. Learn from their experiences and be open to trying new things.
4. Be Patient: Spiritual growth is a journey. It may take time to find what works best for you, so be patient with yourself.
5. Stay Open: Keep an open mind. Your spiritual practices may evolve over time, and that’s okay.

Embracing a Personal Spiritual Journey

Just for today: I will explore my options for improving my conscious contact with the God of my understanding. By embracing this personal spiritual journey, we open ourselves to growth, healing, and a deeper sense of peace. Spiritual exploration is not about finding the perfect practice but discovering what brings us closer to our Higher Power.

The Benefits of a Strong Spiritual Practice

A consistent spiritual practice can provide numerous benefits for those in recovery:

• Inner Peace: A sense of calm and serenity, even in difficult times.
• Guidance: Clarity and direction in decision-making.
• Strength: Resilience and fortitude to face challenges.
• Connection: A deeper relationship with our Higher Power and the world around us.
• Growth: Continuous personal and spiritual development.

Creating a Daily Routine

To make the most of our spiritual exploration, it’s helpful to create a daily routine. This could involve setting aside specific times for prayer and meditation, reading spiritual literature, or spending time in nature. Consistency can help reinforce our practices and deepen our spiritual connection.