Spirituality is defined by Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary as the “quality or state of being spiritual” were as it defines religion as “a personal set or institutionalized system of religious attitudes, beliefs, and practices”. There is a clear difference between spirituality and religion simply through the review of the definitions; one is a state of being while the other is an institutionalized practice. While there are clear differences there are similarities between spirituality and religion with regards to both having a focus and belief in a being higher than themselves. Both spirituality and religion bring a person into searching or pursuing a given purpose or their self-given purpose.
I describe my spirituality as my personal relationship with Jesus Christ and my definition of religion is skewed Biblical practices that humans have taken upon themselves to instill onto others that no man can possibly accomplish. “Spirituality involves a search ofr meaning, transcendence, and purpose.” (Hays & Erford, 2018) Spirituality isn’t about doing this, that, or the other because it is based on personal interaction with our loving Lord and Saviour. This spiritual relationship grows and develops over time through continuous interaction, time, and participate in spiritual practices (praying, studying the Word, meditating on the Word, worship and praise).
Poll and Smith’s Model of Spirituality Identity shows the progression of a spiritual relationship through various stages throughout a person’s life. From late childhood to the end of one’s life the stages gone through are: preawareness, awakening, recognition, and integration. This transition moves a person from being unaware of being a spiritual being to a trigger that brings awareness then the individual comes into a life permeated by God and then the life integration for all aspects of one’s life. I do agree with Poll and Smith’s Model of Spirituality Identity as many people move from a lack of knowledge in who God is or how they are a created being into a life enfused by God in every aspect of life. This is exactly how a Life Coach helps their clients as: “we coach clients to reflect and become aware of their processes and choices, to develop the practice of taking time each day to observe themselves and their habits”. (Williams and Menendez, 2015)
Discuss the similarities and differences between spirituality and religion. What is Poll and Smith’s Model of Spiritual Identity? Do you agree or disagree with the model? Why or why not?