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SPIRITUAL COMPANIONSHIP FOR OUR TIMES
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spiritual directors, as well as some within the Sufi
strand of Islam. And numerous others who use this
designation outside of the Abrahamic family.
Needless to say, all of them are highly valued and
esteemed members of the SDI constituency.
Over the last three years, SDI has made significant
outreach efforts, in an attempt to broaden the in-
vitation to our public square. Many of these indi-
viduals (along with a good number in our original
cohorts) prefer the term “spiritual companion” to
describe the work that they do. In terms of main-
line religious traditions, they encompass Hindus
and Buddhists of many stripes, as well as growing
numbers across many other faith traditions.
But by far our fastest growing contingent are those
who variously describe themselves as “spiritually
fluid,” “spiritually independent,” “inter-spiritual” or
“multi-spiritual.” Rather than ground themselves
in any one particular tradition or spiritual orien-
tation, they glean essential teachings from across
a range of sources. As such, they fit no one profile,
and are companions to a broad range of individuals,
running the gamut from first time seekers and ex-
plorers, to the highly experienced and mature, who
are looking for additional points of views to add to
their wheelhouses.
Our members are also not limited to those who
originate from a squarely spiritual starting point.
For instance, we have many psychologists, social
workers, and health care providers, who all perform
their tasks with a spiritual bent. They describe
themselves as spiritual companions as well.
In these efforts, there are some constants: a genuine
and authentic commitment to deep contemplative
practice, however it may manifest; a dedication to
attentive, mindful and respectful listening; a pro-
found respect for the agency of those we compan-
ion, and for their ability to discern for themselves
the spiritual paths that lie ahead; a deep-seated
ethical compass and grounding; and a willingness
to hold ourselves accountable, especially when we
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fall short of our ideals.
In brief, we are constantly striving for spiritual
depth and maturity, for those we companion, and
for ourselves.
And when we say we are spiritual companions
for these highly troubled times, we mean that we
come in all sorts of packages and expressions, ages,
ethnicities, gender identities, orientations, and
outlooks. And that we will walk alongside any of
you who come to us, whatever burdens you may be
bearing, and however you might manifest your own
uniqueness.
You have but to ask.
-Rev. Seifu Anil Singh-Molares
Listen
PUBLISHER: Spiritual Directors International
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AND EDITOR:
Rev. Seifu Anil Singh-Molares, MTS
PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR: Matt Whitney
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