Joe Paprocki is national consultant for faith formation at Loyola Press who has 30 years of experience in ministry. He is a popular speaker and author of numerous books.
We all have our own special regimen for keeping in shape and eating right. Is there a spiritual program that can firm up the health of our souls? Paprocki presents seven keys to spiritual wellness.
Key One: "Seeing Yourself as You Really Are" affirms the Christian emphasis on being created in the image of God and the energy and inspiration that can come from it. Humility and gratitude fend off what Paprocki calls "an inflated sense of self-importance" that can raise its ugly head as we consider who we really are.
Key Two: "Actively Seeking the Good of Others" is a noble goal that often entails the tough task of giving up comparisons with others and competing with them. Paprocki explains how these practices stem from St. Paul's contentment even when afflicted. He also notes the importance of Ignatian spiritual exercises.
The other five keys involve thinking before acting, holding on loosely, recognizing and setting limits, seeking beauty, and unleashing your imagination. Paprocki hits high stride in his treatment of beauty and imagination, two keys to a vigorous and fulfilling spiritual life of well-being.
