I’m now thinking it may help to understand where I am coming from in these posts if I define what I mean when I use the word “spiritual.”
To me, “spiritual” means, “that which is expansive to ones consciousness.” Spiritual growth (in my mind) is the increasing experience of unity with all.
A mother naturally includes the welfare of her children as part of her own reality. This is potentially expansive to her consciousness, but expansion is not limited to moms. By willingly putting the welfare of others before our own, we grow in patience, acceptance, kindness, and joy. Aligning our actions with what we feel is right for all, instead of what we personally prefer is spiritually enriching.
If pride of heritage, country, religion, etc. causes us to favor one group over another, we are shrinking the size of our family, and our love. The more conditions we put on our love, the less joy and love we experience.
What is forward for one person can be backward for another. All that is important, is that we learn and grow. Comparing ones spiritual position with others is a trap. This is a negative habit of the mind that keeps us separate. This is the exact energy we must overcome to experience our higher nature.
Spiritual growth is a gradual process of releasing attachment to the little wave of our ego, and awakening to the reality of our oneness with the whole sea.
I think of great saints as perfect moms. But they love all of humanity as their children, or as their family in God.
Spiritual growth is not easy when we face a big test, but it does bring an increasing experience of joy and fulfillment over the long term. And this is how to gauge our own progress.
Joy to You!
turiya
