Within the past 10 years, there has been a surge of scandals that have come out in the media about practices of ministers, businessmen, politicians, etc. that have come out in the media about practices of ministers, businessmen, politicians, etc.
For example, in 2006, it was revealed that Ted Haggard, an evangelical preacher, paid a man to engage in sex with him for three years and purchased and used crystal methamphetamine.
In 2001, there was the Enron scandal that hid billions of dollars in debt as a result of failed deals and projects.
Last month, senior pastor of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, a mega church in Lithonia, Georgia, Bishop Eddie Long, was accused of sexual misconduct with youth in his church and is currently the defendant in four lawsuits. At this point, he has not denied or confirmed the allegations.
I personally think a lot of issues are coming to the forefront now. Some questions you may ask are why now? How long have these things been going on? Who else has uncompromised secrets? Or possibly, you may even reflect on your own indiscretions…
Presently we are living in a time when things can quickly come to the forefront.For example, tragic events can be discussed sometimes faster on Facebook or twitter than CNN because people quickly share information that is going on around them. This information can be accessed by hundreds, maybe even thousands of people within minutes. Things are changing, and they are changing fast!
As a result, people can’t keep things in the closet, like they did in the past! I think this is a wake up call for all people to know and practice the importance of integrity and live a life focused and centered on one’s true desires. Basically, ‘practice what you preach’!
Know that each individual has a separate and unique path to walk in life.
This path can sometimes be challenging as well as rewarding. We all know that no one is perfect and no one is exempt from human error. While walking one’s path may be difficult at times, know that there are always principles that one should follow.
In the services we offer, we focus on six spiritual principles that each individual should practice on a daily basis: integrity, compassion, faith, forgiveness, courage and patience. Most people know the principles, however, sometimes; it’s challenge for all of us to use the principles everyday as a result of life’s obstacles.
In your daily life, take time to practice these spiritual principles through your actions. First, make sure you have a clear definition of each principle and how it should be applied in your daily life. Then, practice, practice, practice, applying these principles in your daily life.
In our future blogs, we will discuss in detail the 6 spiritual principles and how they should be applied.
Take Care.
Dr. Jessica is a Psychologist and Empowerment Coach with the Center for Discovery. She helps women experiencing a personal or career transition discover their highest potential, using proven principles and practices of mind, body, and spiritual development.
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