CAMP Spirit

I believe that it is important to constantly—and consistently—strive for serenity in our daily lives. Unfortunately, these lives are often chaotic, whether personally, professionally, socially, or politically. Chaos attacks us, overwhelms us, and leads us away from Spirit. At those times, it is especially important to search for our "center"—that place where we find our Source, whether we call It God, Enlightenment, or Higher Power.

Leadership consultant Isabel Lopez tells a story about when she traveled with her grandmother to say goodbye to her aunt, who was dying. During the visit, as they prepared for the woman’s death, Isabel’s cousins were not only arranging the funeral but also the dispossession of their mother’s effects. When their grandmother sat down at the dining room table to eat her lunch, she was told she had to move because there were people coming to look at the dining room suite for possible purchase. Without a word, the old lady went to sit in a rocking chair, spread her lunch out on her lap, and placidly enjoyed her meal. Isabel, however, was livid that they had been so insensitive to a woman whose daughter was about to die. She marveled at her grandmother’s peace of mind and wondered how she could obtain it for herself.

The peace and serenity that Isabel’s grandmother possessed came from a lifetime of faith. Her various life experiences led her to knowledge of herself and her inner core, that place called "Spirit," from which we draw refreshment, comfort, passion, and compassion. Only after we know ourselves and who we are, are we able to reach out to others in love and service. Self knowledge in faith gives us courage to confront turbulent events that we are sure will take us down. When we practice self love, including patience with ourselves, we access that soft, serene center out of which come authentic actions of love and justice.

(This was inspired by the essay "Finding Wisdom and Purpose in Chaotic Times" by Isabel O. Lopez in the anthology Faith in Leadership, edited by Robert Banks and Kimberly Powell; Jossey-Bass Publishers, 2000.)