|
Wednesday, 29 October 2008 |
Exploring spiritual level brings new depth to relationships
Relationships are complicated. They start off small and then can either grow into a huge mess, something beautiful, or fizzle out altogether.
The reason why relationships can be so complicated is because they are made up of more than just the basic ‘I like you, you like me’ mentality.
There are three aspects of a relationship, each with their own different levels that need attention.
You have the emotional
aspect: learning about each other, enjoying romance, sharing common
interests—basically getting to know the person’s mind.
You have the physical aspect: kissing, touching, and sex—basically getting to know the person’ s body.
And then you have the spiritual aspect: sharing common morals,
discussing controversial issues, and growing in your own faith
together—basically getting to know the person’s soul.
Sometimes relationships focus on one or the other and some develop slowly over time.
But just like a relationship that focuses highly on sex and has nothing
to do with emotions will be shallow and not grow, so would a
relationship that ignores the spiritual aspect altogether.
Regardless of your religion, your faith plays a huge role in what makes you the person you are today.
If you are bringing everything to the table when it comes to
relationships, whether it be your inner most thoughts and goals, or
your sexual preferences, why would you leave out the foundation of your
beliefs?
In a previous column, I wrote about the importance of sharing a common
faith. But there’s more to relationships than that. You can’t just
check the “Christian box” on your check sheet for Mr. Right.
Learn about the other person’s faith. What’s important to them spiritually? Pray together. Go to church together.
Just like holding hands and kissing is the first step to exploring the
physical aspect of relationships, simple things like praying and going
to church together builds a small connection as well for the spiritual
aspect.
As relationships grow, there are different levels of each aspect to
explore. Some wait for certain mile markers to reach certain levels,
such as waiting until marriage for sex.
But regardless of when you explore a level, it is important to remember not to neglect it.
Sharing devotionals with your partner as you grow in your relationship
will help you get to know each other in a whole new way, connecting you
on a deeper level.
But just like you need to be careful with the other aspects, don’t rush too quickly into spiritual sharing as well.
While exploring the physical side of a relationship too quickly can
harm it, so can trying to force a spiritual connection too quickly.
Go at your own pace, but just don’t forget about all aspects of a
relationship. They are all important in the grand scheme of things.
Don’t just share a piece of your mind or your body, share a piece of your soul.
Trackback(0)
 |
TrackBack URI for this entry
Show/Hide comments