1. Pick one of the 6 spiritual strengths that the author speaks about and share why that strength stood out to you. Are there other strengths you think should have been included that were not mentioned?
The spiritual strength picked from Lisa Miller’s text, “ The Spiritual Child” is children as the hardwire to sustaining family and holding it sacred. What stands out about this strength is the primacy of family and the seamless connection that children develop towards nuclear and extended family members whether physically present or not. From family, a child develops spirituality, love and values, which remain in their hearts and mind as they advance in cognition, and later transferred across generations (Lisa). Interestingly, children’s natural spirituality is shaped by deep spiritual connection with family members, from whom they draw life lessons. The author describes how Liam believes that his diseased grandmother extends help when he asks for it due to the deep connection he still holds. Peter on the other hand helps her mother reconnect with his diseased grandfather though a photo. Another strength that I feel should be included in the list is the role of peers in shaping a child’s character and spirituality. I think that what children engage in while with friends in school, in playgrounds and their social-interpersonal interactions contribute to their spirituality and general character.
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2. Why is adolescence described as the "window of spiritual awakening?" What "quest" are adolescents on that the author speaks about?
Adolescence is referred to as the window of spiritual awakening since it is the stage when individuals engage with the reality of spirituality. It is the stage where a young person decides to or, not to establish personal relationships with transcendent power. For many young individuals, adolescence brings the realization that spirituality is foundation for stability and deriving meaning of life (Lisa). The quests that adolescents are on as described in chapter nine entail the search for the meaning of life, its purpose, and calling. Adolescents are also on expeditions for self-search, self- discovery, their purpose, spirituality and independent discernment of right from wrong. my thought on these topics is that the translation from childhood to adulthood is truly an awakening moment. Outstandingly, adolescents have to make sense of a seemingly technicolored word, amid intense emotions, confronted with moral, spiritual sexual, and socio-political choices.
Reference
Lisa Miller PHD. The Spiritual Child, Chapter 7-9
