Health and Wellness Article - December 2007Celebrate the spirit
“I seek to celebrate my spirit through gratitude and humility, which leads me to joy. … Joy leads me back to myself, filling my heart, which overflows to others, thus completing the circle of life.”
Celebrating the spirit is an individual experience for each one of us. However, there are universal themes that bring people together, lead to positive change and make a difference to all of us and the planet. Reading the biographies of some of the greatest changemakers provides a road map to qualities and practices that have had a lasting effect on the greater good of all. What so many of these heroes have in common is not wealth, charisma or even opportunity. The common character traits are unselfishness, determination, gratitude, perseverance and dedication.
Wisdom is also a trait held in common, and wisdom requires both age and experience. The elders in cultures around the world are the wisdom keepers, as noted by the tradition of the American Indians in their legends and spiritual practices. In our culture today, we frequently lose sight of the value of the opinions and experiences of the wisdom keepers as we get caught up in the notion of youth and vitality being the keys to a happy life and success.
Hundreds of wisdom keepers—individuals who have both life experience and wisdom to share—live in Touchmark communities. As we enter the season of winter solstice, we want to celebrate the spirit of all with music, food and festivities. We also need to observe quiet, contemplative times that nurture the spirit—individually and with those we love and care about.
At Touchmark, we invite and encourage people to share the abundance of their wisdom and experience through our Life Enrichment/Wellness program. Contact us to become an active changemaker and contributor to the circle of life.
© 2007 Touchmark