Homeschool families are typically well-read and aware that there is much more to the world than just themselves. Spiritual Literacy Month is a time to reflect on that and challenge ourselves and our children to reach further, inquire more, and celebrate our spiritual connections to each other and our world, and to learn the different ways that people around the world do that. It is cultural exploration, spiritual discovery, and soul-searching. Reading books about different forms of spirituality and religion is an educational pursuit and provides deeper understanding of others. It helps us to see how we are all connected. And, in our differences, there is a beauty that can be celebrated. Spiritual literacy gives us a multitude of perspectives which can be enlightening and helpful in learning how to deal with so many of life's challenges and circumstances. It can give us comfort, peace, and a deeper sense of self and purpose. It grants us wisdom and a reminder that life is precious and sacred. Medieval Catholic monks referred to spiritual literacy as "reading the book of the world." Muslims describe everything that happens in us and around us as "a letter to be read." Native Americans believe that signs of a higher spirit can be seen all around us. And, even if you are not a spiritual person, it is an interesting endeavor to learn about why people believe what they do. Spiritual Literacy Month is a time to "promote respect for and among the world's religions and spiritual traditions." William Blake wrote, To see a world in a grain of sand and a heaven in a wildflower To hold infinity in the palm of your hand and eternity in an hour." Here are some books and authors that you can read to expand your learning of spirituality and religion. 1. Spiritual Literacy: Reading the Sacred in Everyday Life, Frederic & Mary Ann Brussat 2. The Art of Happiness, The Dalai Lama 3. Tao Te Ching, Lao Tze 4. Bhagavad Gita 5. The Bible 6. The Koran 7. The Torah 8. Confucius 9. Deepak Chopra 10. The Celestine Prophecy 11. The Secret 12. The Alchemist 13. A New Earth 14. The Road Less Traveled 15. The Four Agreements 16. Siddhartha 17. The Purpose Driven Life 18. The Power of Now 19. Peace Is Every Step 20. Wherever You Go, There You Are 21. Books about ancient mythology: Greek, Roman, Native American, etc 22. Books about ancient civilizations: Mayans, Aztecs, Incas, Egyptians, etc 23. Shinto There are so many more, but this is a list that will get you started on your journey. Enjoy!
1 Comment
|
Archives
March 2020
Categories |