Fully Alive

Over the years it has become clear that imbalance in the spiritual life provokes imbalance and dis-ease in other areas of our relationships and in life in general. It would be great if all of us could be totally alive! But what does that mean?

What does being fully alive suggest to you? Several people were asked what it means to them to be wholly alive. Only one person was able to put it into words. Everyone else had an especially awkward time almost as though they don’t think it’s possible, or that it’s something to which they’ve never given any thought!

When we study people, we can ascertain from their behavior, their lack of energy for life, and their lack of fascination for whatever is going on, that they’re bored, exhausted, have a sense of hopelessness, or are having some kind of physical or emotional dilemma. We can tell that something is off.

It’s also simple to tell when someone is feeling totally alive – they exude well-being and sparkle, and seem to be wholly present and engaged in the here and now.

We now know that our emotions, whether constructive or unenthusiastic, affect us at the cellular level. And we may also know that we can opt which thoughts and emotions we wish to cultivate. But when our lives lack stability and we’re dealing with a profession that’s not right for us, interactions that tear us down, the inability to get on, and stay on task with a healthy eating routine, a work out program, reflection, or our relationship and connection with God or Source, we may begin to feel annoyed, bored, and dull, or find ourselves irritated or depressed without even knowing why.

But when we give thought to the subtle messages from our body, mind, and spirit, and move toward meaningful occupation, wholesome living, caring relationships, and development in our spiritual lives, the possibility of being totally alive becomes a reality. It’s true that no one lives in an enduring state of equilibrium.

Finding our balance, after all, calls for continual adjustment to what we perceive and come into contact with. On every occasion when we see ourselves finding ours lives less than completely alive, we may want to assess the kinds of decisions we are making, the types of thoughts and emotions we’re fostering, and whether or not we’re living in alignment with our truest self.

One of the biblical scriptures that can be very meaningful and helpful is found in Philippians 4:8:

Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy think on these things! (NASB)

A great solution that encourages being completely alive!