Discipline—A Bad Word?
With Ramadan fast approaching, we need to think a bit about discipline. What does it mean to you? I was reading Michael Beckwith’s book, Spiritual Liberation, today, and found this:
“We’ve all experienced how discipline sometimes causes an automatic rebellion or resistance within us. We don’t like the energy around the word ‘discipline’, perhaps because of the place it has occupied in our upbringing, education, or religion. However, a HEALTHY view of discipline keeps us on track in areas of our life where we’re determined to make a change. Discipline is a practice of self-love, self-respect, and surrender that results in freedom.” (p. 41)
How can we incorporate some discipline, seen THIS way, into our lives during and after Ramadan this year? Are yoiu remembering to pray 5 times a day (it’s hard, sometimes, I know… I’m still working on being consistent, sometimes missing the mid-day ones)? Are you able to spend a few minutes every day reading the Quran? Are you doing something to help your friends or neighbors? Are you volunteering some of your time every week to help others? Discipline doesn’t have to be a bad word, or one that makes us say, “Oh, well, I guess I HAVE to… blah!” Instead, use it as a tool in your spiritual tool box that helps you get closer to your spiritual values and to God.
For non-Muslims–are you spending time every day praying? Are you reading the Bible or Torah? Commentaries on the New Testament, Buddha’s writings, or Hindu writings? Are you helping the less fortunate and remembering to practice loving kindness? I know it’s hard sometimes, when someone cuts you off in traffic or is rude to you in a store. But step back, practice your spiritual awareness and self-discipline, and refesh your love.
Take the time– it may affect the way you enjoy eternity! 
Salaam!
