We are now in the midst of a wide-spread and expanded spiritual evolution in which we seek to know ourselves, not just as individuals coming to terms with our personal and unique life circumstances, but also as parts of larger wholes: families, social groups, organizations, ethnicities, religions, nations and planet. This realization – that, “I participate in something larger than myself” – moves us to broader perspectives about ourselves and life as a whole. The belief that we are all part of a Unity – a spiritual oneness – adds yet another layer to the soul’s evolution.

Planetary events – whether climate change, war, social inequality, or any number of other issues – are wakening us to a deeply felt need to become part of the solution rather than part of the problem.

Yet how do we do that? The problems are so huge and we so small. We ask ourselves:

• What can I do personally that will make a difference?
• How can I avoid feeling helpless against such enormity?
• What does “being of service” really mean?
• What will being of service cost me?
• How can I serve others when I myself am in need of so much?
• What is the risk of doing nothing?
• Does prayer really help?

These and other questions commonly arise as spiritual seekers raise their eyes and look up from their own suffering to the sufferings of the world.

• You must learn how to take care of yourself, on every level of mind, emotion, body and spirit, in order to serve others. And, do not wait until you believe you believe you are completely healed in order to start your service. Even Mother Teresa suffered continuing and profound crises of faith as she ministered to the poor of Calcutta. Your healing and your service can and must coexist.

• Yes – we are each one small entity in a huge whole. And, our very smallness lends power to the intention and courage to serve. Spiritual texts and uplifting stories are full of examples of people who used whatever was at hand to be of service, and were often quite unaware of the outcome of their action.

• Prayer and meditation may not avert a large disaster. And, prayer and meditation are important because they change us, and allow us to avert the disaster of maintaining fear and indifference in our own psyches.

These are just a few examples of the examination of service that occur naturally as a person pursues his or her own spiritual growth.

If the path of service speaks to you, you are ready to move into a dialogue with your own soul that will start with the smallest issue in your own life and move outwards like ripples in a pond. Given an expanded perception of service, your opportunities for action will immediately change because you will have become a different observer.