From Our President - Dr. Kenn Gordon

Dr. Kenn Gordon is co-pastor of the Centre for Spiritual Living in Kelowna, BC.

Devotion

April 2009

Our philosophy has many facets, one of which is certainly self-discipline. By definition, self-discipline is the training of our mind and character.

Those who have succeeded in changing their minds from a core belief are more than aware of how challenging this can be. To accept a new paradigm of belief after 20, 30, 40 or more years of inculcation requires a tenacity and diligence that supersedes any average undertaking. However, discipline is only one facet of this teaching.

If we only rely on one tool to transform our consciousness, we are, in effect, creating the potential for unnecessary struggle. This is because there are other factors in who we are that are available to us, and these can come into play if we invite them.

Luciano Pavarotti was quoted as saying, "People think I'm disciplined. It is not discipline. It is devotion. There is a great difference." It is here that we find the most powerful tool we have in redefining and reconditioning our consciousness. Devotion is love given with one's whole heart and will. Its application to every aspect of our lives provides simplicity, ease, fulfillment, purpose, and meaning. It adds immeasurably to the value of life.

As a minister in the International Centers for Spiritual Living, the purpose and definition of my devotion is clear: "Awakening Humanity to Its Spiritual Magnificence." When I act from this devotion, I find struggle and challenge disappear. It answers for me every question imaginable around the what and why of my existence, and it acts as a beacon to light my way and apply my faith.

Devotion serves to clarify and prioritize everything I do. The only discipline left for me to undertake is to live, practice, and remember what is mine to do. Devotion simplifies my intentions and prioritizes my actions. It provides me with an anchor to live congruently with who I am. It draws everything I require to serve it and repels or brings into conscious thought everything unlike itself.

Devotion becomes the foundation of my relative life, and it awakens me to my own value and greatness. It is what I do when I teach, when I parent, when I lead, and when I follow. It grows, sustains, supports, and nourishes me. It is the Thing Itself, and it is who I am and who you are.