“Commitment to any spiritual path requires ferocity of purpose and finding a shared spiritual practice.” (p. 190, The Buddha’s Wife)
To welcome the New Year, many find it an auspicious time to renew vows, commitments, and promises. A New Year becomes an opportunity to look at our purpose and aspirations.
For couples, it can be an especially exciting time to renew a shared path. When couples share a path that integrates both the ordinary and extraordinary, the everyday with spirit, there is an opportunity to awaken together as a spiritual “we.” Moments of deep connection, when we are truly present with the other, supports and expands the relationship into a spiritual dimension.
Dialogue and deep listening are steps that can expand couples mutuality—a way of being with each other in a safe holding circle of intimacy. If you have a shared commitment with your partner to become a spiritual “we,” here are three practices from The Buddha’s Wife:
- Write a relational purpose statement. What are our spiritual aspirations for the relationship?
- What are our vows and commitments to each other?
- What are some simple phrases or mantras to remind ourselves of these commitments? For example: “We do it together.”
Remember to also have fun throughout the journey—laughter is a beautiful way to connect heart to heart!