Spiritual Perspectives
Deepening our Connections

By Rev. M. Linda Rounds-Nichols
Special to The Independent

"And what do you do?" or if we know the person, "What are you doing these days?" these are common questions. It seems we list our activities as a way to learn about each other and deepen our connections.

When I'm asked this question, I'm often not sure how to respond. Does the person really want the litany, or should I guess which of my activities would be the best answer for this particular person? Since guessing may not open up the possibility of connection, I often proceed with the litany, which may then lead to more specific questions.

What is my litany? I'm a retired educator: teacher, counselor, administrator and higher education adjunct faculty member. I've brought some of those skills and interests into my current life, so I serve as the Executive Director of the New Mexico Counseling Association.

As a member of the clergy, I help with Sophia Divinity School, serve as one of the RMCHCS on-call chaplains, offer spiritual direction and pastoral care, and facilitate ceremonies and rituals. I also volunteer as the chaplain at the RMCHCS BHS residential addictions unit.

Bingo! In a recent conversation that was the activity that made the connection. This led to a deeper conversation about the other person's life, my life, and the activities of the program at the addictions unit. My companion was impressed, and suggested I find a way to share the spiritual aspect of this program with others. So, I'll share.

RMCHCS has had a residential and out-patient BHS/Addictions program for many years. This 12 Step Program includes a number of spiritual activities for the residential clients. They are invited to a Sunday morning interdenominational Christian worship service, and an all-faith worship service on Sunday evening. There is a weekly Bible Study and weekly Native American Sweats and a Talking Circle.

In addition to these opportunities for spiritual growth, there are two spirituality sessions during the week. These focus on gaining self-knowledge: past-present-future. Self-knowledge can lead to self acceptance and self-forgiveness. It also leads to the faith that a Higher Power will be accepting and forgiving as well. Some clients also benefit from individual pastoral care sessions to aid in the belief in this possibility.

You or someone you know might benefit from residential or out-patient treatment for addictions. If so, know that this treatment is available locally. The program at RMCHCS includes the spirituality component that is so very important in recovery. And recovery is another word for life!

Rev. M. Linda Rounds-Nichols, a priest in the Church of Antioch, provides pastoral care and spiritual direction, advocates for acceptance of the religion of all people, and is interested in helping women connect with their own special spiritual issues through an investigation of Womyns's Spirituality. She can be contacted at lindaroundsnichols@yahoo.com.

This column is the result of a desire by community members, representing different faith communities, to share their ideas about bringing a spiritual perspective into our daily lives and community issues.

For information about contributing a guest column, contact Elizabeth Hardin-Burrola at the Independent: (505) 863-8611, ext. 218 or lizreligion01@yahoo.com.