Spiritual Development

William G. Huitt

Valdosta State University

Last Revised: June 2003

Definition

• Inherent property of the human being

• Meaningfulness of our lives and our relationships to

– ourselves

– to others

– to nature

– to a higher power (or to the unknowns of the universe)

Source of Spirituality

• Naturalism

• Pantheism

• Theism

Brain

Universe is expression of God

Non-material soul created by God

Benefits of Spirituality

• Improved physical health, including blood pressure

• Healthier lifestyles and less risky behavior

• Improved coping ability

• Less depression

• Faster healing

• Lower levels of bereavement after the death of a loved one

• A decrease in fear of death

• Higher school achievement

Liability for Lack of Spirituality

• Overeating

• Risky behavior

• Low self-esteem

• Poor health

Spirituality-Related Questions

• Who are we as human beings? Where did we come from?

• Where did the universe come from? What are its origins?

• Are we in control of our lives or is our destination a result of fate?

• How can we increase meaning in our lives, in general, and my life, in particular?

• Is there a God (in whatever way we define or know a Supreme Being)?

• What is our relationship to God or the Creator, if there is one?

• Is there a continuity of life after this life? If so, what is it like?

Relating To Self

• Signature Strengths: http://www.authentichappiness.org/

• Index to Learning Style: http://www.ncsu.edu/felder-public/ILSdir/ilsweb.html

• Jung Typology Personality Test: http://www.humanmetrics.com/cgi-win/JTypes2.asp

• Classical Intelligence Test (2nd Rev.): http://www.queendom.com/tests/iq/classical_iq_r2_access.html

• Emotional Intelligence Assessment: http://etesting.modwest.com/tests.php?test=2

• Becoming A Brilliant Star http://chiron.valdosta.edu/whuitt/brilstar/BrilStaract.pdf

Pathways To The Soul

• Search for Meaning and Purpose

• Yearning for Deep Connection

• Longing for Silence and Solitude

• Hunger for Joy and Delight

• Creative Drive

• Urge of Transcendence

• Need for Initiation

Stages of Faith

IV. Individuative-Reflective

V. Conjunctive

VI. Universalizing Faith

III. Synthetic-Conventional

0. Undifferentiated Faith

II. Mythic-Literal

I. Intuitive-Projective Faith

Activities

• Provide variety of activities using Kessler’s “Pathways” as a guideline

• Any activity that allows students to gain meaningful insights regarding self, others, nature, God or universal unknowns

• Maintain neutrality between secular and religious and among religions

• Create conducive environment -- Save, secure, supportive

The End