We are now in the midst of a wide-spread and expanded spiritual evolution. Planetary events – whether climate change, war, social inequality, or any number of other issues – are wakening in us 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 will it cost me to be of service?

• 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 always be willing to embody a “both/and” answer to every question. For instance

• 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.