EPISODE 6: Why being Political is a Spiritual Responsibility with Rev. David Wallace
In this episode, I connect with Reverend David Wallace to explore the inherent connection between politics and spirituality. David, who is well-known for his deep expertise in poetics, contemplative practice, and wisdom texts, and also happens to be a political junkie, shares his insights on the origin of politics and so much more. We discuss the challenges of spiritual bypassing in the political sphere and share why it’s important for those of us on a spiritual journey to stay engaged in our communities and the larger world. Join us as we learn how everyone can contribute to a more connected and conscious world!
Tune in to hear:
The reason to integrate political engagement into our spiritual journeys, challenging the trend of spiritual bypassing which has become bypassing politics.
The origin of “politics” in the Greek concept of ‘polis,’ highlighting the importance of community and connection in achieving happiness (contentment & alignment)
The spiritual truth of recognizing our interconnectedness and acting with integrity in both spiritual and political spheres
The idea of Spiritual Activism and ways to get engaged in your community with compassion and connection, all part of a spiritual path
A specific post-recording note from David: Related to the concept of “polis,” Athens/Greece was the birthplace of what we call democracy. And "democracy" has it's roots in two Greek words which translate as "people" and "power (or force)". So Democracy is indeed People power.
ABOUT OUR GUEST: Rev. David Wallace recently retired as a dean and senior teacher at One Spirit Seminary in New York City, but still offers workshops for students and the general public through One Spirit and other spiritual organizations. Known for his deep and passionate teaching style, he specializes in poetics, contemplative practice, and the wisdom texts of both the Eastern and Western traditions and is now teaching into the inquiries of how to navigate systemic collapse with sanity and a sense of hope and community. He is also an active officiant and spiritual director and considers himself a lifelong student of the “great books” of philosophy and archetypal psychology. Prior to his work in interspiritual ministry and teaching, David had an extensive career in publishing and marketing, as well as creating and running award-winning Soho galleries in New York City, The Enchanted Forest and After the Rain.
David shares a home in the Berkshire Mountains with his partner, senior Kripalu teacher Jurian Hughes, and their beloved dog Smitty.
SPECIFIC RESOURCES FROM THIS SHOW:
BOOK: American Nations: A History of the Eleven Rival Regional Cultures of North America
Reinhold Niebuhr quote:
"Nothing worth doing is completed in our lifetime,
Therefore, we are saved by hope.
Nothing true or beautiful or good makes complete sense in any immediate context of history;
Therefore, we are saved by faith.
Nothing we do, however virtuous, can be accomplished alone.
Therefore, we are saved by love.
No virtuous act is quite a virtuous from the standpoint of our friend or foe as from our own;
Therefore, we are saved by the final form of love which is forgiveness.”
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