Symbols of Hope

Happy Valentine’s day! In my circle you would find both sides of the spectrum. Those who refuse to acknowledge anything related to this specific occasion and those who go all out. The history of the St Valentine’s story is easily accessible on the web - a symbol of sacrifice and selfless service to humanity. What marketing has done with this day, as well as other significant days, is simply business and nothing resembling the deeper spiritual message originally intended.

Over the past weekend I received a gift of a pendant with the South African one cent coin accompanied by the true story of hope that eventually inspired General Jan Smuts to order the then quarter penny to be made with the two sparrows that we still see on the one cent coin today. This story is about the power of prayer and the hope we can find in symbols especially in a time of difficulty and despair.

Spending time in deep contemplation – across cultures and belief systems - is vitally important to our spiritual well-being and overall wellness. Especially in difficult times, investing in ‘quiet’ time opens the connection to Spirit. It is in this space of prayer/praise/worship/meditation that we open ourselves to nurturing and feeding our inner being and strengthen our connection to God. It is in this place that we are able to express gratitude, formulate sorrow and ask for guidance.

Being uncomfortable and unable to sit quietly may be an indication of discomfort with Self. Feeling despair or angry makes it almost impossible to find that peaceful place in your spiritual quiet time, which results in neglecting this practice altogether.

You be the judge of how peaceful you are within. Is it time to look into what is holding you back from experiencing inner peace?