Today, I am honored to address you and explore a concept that lies at the heart of spirituality - the extraordinary power of the "and."
Within this realm, we find a profound invitation to delve into its depths, embracing its paradoxes and transcending the limitations of either/or thinking.
In spirituality, we often witness the enchanting interplay between seemingly contradictory forces.
Ernest Holmes eloquently captured this dynamic by stating, "A true healing is the revealing of the Truth." This powerful statement reminds us that spirituality has the ability to unveil deep truths, leading to profound healing and transformation.
Within this sacred space, we encounter concepts such as masculine and feminine energy, the intricate dance between consciousness and matter, the delicate balance of being in the world but not of the world, and the profound interconnectedness between our inner and outer landscapes.
While these paradoxes may initially puzzle and perplex us, they hold within them immense wisdom and the potential for transformative growth.
By embracing the intricacies of the "and," we open ourselves up to profound insights, expanded perspectives, and the liberation that comes from transcending limited binary thinking. So let us embark on this journey together, exploring the depths of the "and" and unlocking its incredible power.
Through this exploration, may we discover profound truths, experience transformative healing, and embrace a more expansive understanding of spirituality.
Let us reflect upon the Chinese symbol of the YinYang - a symbol of profound insight into the nature of reality and the power of the "and". This symbol reminds us that the apparent dichotomy between light and dark, or yin and yang, is not an absolute separation but rather two sides of the same coin.
In this realization, we discover the beauty of a third way, where the light and dark intermingle, creating a harmonious and balanced whole.
For thousands of years, spirituality has called upon us to seek out these third ways, to let go of rigid either/or thinking, and to embrace the vast possibilities of the "and".
Holmes reminds us of the power inherent within each day: "Today we are setting in motion the power of tomorrow. Today is God's day, and we must extract from it what of life we are to live." This empowering quote encourages us to seize the present moment and harness its potential to shape our future.
As we navigate the complexities of life, we are urged to release our attachment to limited beliefs and open ourselves to a new way of being.
Embracing the power of the "and" is not an easy path. It requires us to relinquish our desire for certainty and embrace the fluidity of existence. It challenges us to explore the unexplored, to venture into unknown territories, and to gracefully dance in the space of uncertainty.
Yet, it is in this realm of uncertainty that we find true growth and expansion. It is where innovation flourishes, where creativity blossoms, and where our spirits soar.
What I know is that by surrendering the confines of either/or thinking, we unlock the potential within us to create a more harmonious and inclusive world.
In our journey towards authenticity, Henna Inam reminds us of the significance of embracing the "and" within us. As she eloquently states, "Authenticity is not possible without embracing the 'and' within us."
By liberating ourselves from rigid either/or thinking, we open ourselves to new possibilities and adapt more effectively in an ever-changing world. Embracing the "and" is like yoga for the brain, expanding our capacity to hold paradoxes and foster growth.
Today, let us commit to embrace the paradoxes of spirituality and the power of the "and".
Let us honor the interconnectedness of all things, the coexistence of seemingly opposing forces within us and around us. Because when we do this, we can foster a new way of living, one that transcends binaries and embraces unity in diversity.
Together, we can step into a future where the "and" becomes a guiding principle, shaping our thoughts, actions, and relationships.
Let us embark on this journey of embracing the paradoxes of spirituality and discover the transformative potential that lies within the power of the "and".
Thank you.
Ellen Suazo, RScP