Finding Balance: The Foundations of My Spiritual Journey
Welcome to my fourth blog, "The Foundations of My Spiritual Journey." At 70, I've had the privilege of experiencing a lifetime of growth, learning, and transformation. This blog is an exploration of how my spiritual path began, evolved, and continues to shape my art and life. It’s about finding balance, peace, and mindfulness through various influences and practices.
A Spiritual Beginning
Growing up in a French Canadian Catholic family, my spiritual journey was deeply intertwined with my upbringing. My parents, both hardworking and devout, instilled in me and my siblings a strong belief in doing the right thing. This foundation was more than just religious; it was the bedrock of my spiritual exploration. As a young boy, I embraced roles such as an Altar Boy and later, a Knight of the Altar. These experiences were not merely duties but formative moments that ignited my desire to grow, learn, and achieve.
During these formative years, I even contemplated becoming a priest—a path that many mothers in our community dreamed of for their sons. The spiritual calling was strong, fueled by my reading of the Bible twice, which opened my eyes to the profound spiritual dimensions within. This period of my life laid the groundwork for a lifelong journey of spiritual growth and exploration.
Sacred Sundays
Sundays were sacrosanct. They were a time of reverence and family bonding. We’d don our special Sunday best, shoes polished to a shine, and head to mass. Being part of the Knights and learning the mass in Latin was a profound experience. It instilled in me an avid desire to learn and a mindset of "I can do whatever I set my mind to." This routine, though rigid, brought me closer to a spiritual understanding that transcended mere religious practice.
Despite not adhering to any religion today, I appreciate the discipline those Sundays instilled in me. They were also about family time—with my four siblings, enjoying a special breakfast upon returning home from church.
Lessons from My Parents
My dad's peacefulness and my mom's creativity were guiding forces. He showed us that calm and peace are the true paths, while she, dressed in style, infused our lives with creativity. These lessons from my parents were monumental in shaping who I am today.
A Special Time of Year
Being a Catholic boy and French Canadian made Christmas and New Year’s particularly special. These times held unique meanings in our family—an intertwining of faith, culture, and familial warmth. But those stories are for another day. 😉
Giving and Growth
Supporting those less fortunate has been a cornerstone of my life. Since my early years, I've committed to a monthly amount of funds that helps support a child, allowing her and her family to grow. I support each child until they are able to support themselves. Over the years, this commitment has connected me with these special souls through emails, letter writing, and cards.
These interactions not only show me gratitude for what I have but also ground me in the blessings I possess. Witnessing their gratitude, despite having so little, continually reminds me of the abundance in my own life. This practice of giving has transformed my prayers into meditation, grounding me and connecting me to something greater than myself. Meditation has become a bridge between my past religious experiences and my present spiritual journey.
Inspired by Art
Spiritual art inspired me to express my connection to life through painting. This journey led me to embrace a minimalist style—one that reflects simplicity, mindfulness, and the quiet beauty I cherish. My art, much like my life, strives for balance and mindfulness, resonating with the ethos of Eh Canadian Peace™.
A Life of Accomplishments
From my first two blogs, you might’ve noticed I’ve always been driven to achieve. Whether through personal growth, my spiritual journey, or creative endeavors, my life is a testament to the drive to evolve. The foundations of my spiritual journey, rooted in my Catholic upbringing, have always guided me toward balance and simplicity.
FAQs
How did your Catholic upbringing influence your spiritual journey?
My Catholic upbringing instilled discipline, a love for learning, and a desire to achieve. It laid the spiritual foundation that evolved into a broader quest for peace and mindfulness.
How do you integrate mindfulness into your art?
Mindfulness is at the core of my art. I focus on simplicity and balance, drawing inspiration from nature and meditation, which translates into the minimalist aesthetics of my paintings.
How has meditation impacted your life?
Meditation has transformed my prayers into a practice that grounds me. It connects me to something greater, providing peace and helping me maintain balance in life and art.
Conclusion
This is my fourth blog: The Foundations of My Spiritual Journey. It’s a narrative of growth, balance, and mindfulness. From a Catholic boy to an artist inspired by simplicity and peace, my journey is not about religion—it's about finding tranquility and purpose through various influences, art, and mindfulness practices. As I continue this path, I remain committed to exploring new ways to integrate these elements into everything I create and share with the world.
