Turns out Canada's most stridently non-religious newspaper can't avoid spirituality.
Even though the Globe and Mail never mentions Christianity unless there is a scandal or a conflict, Judith timson's, April 29, 2008 Life Section column, Longevity: The New Boomer Status Symbol, listed 9 items that contribute to longevity that author Dan Buettner had observed in his studies of communities around the world with higher than average longevity.
The first 4 have to do with common sense diet and exercise.
The last 5? In one way or another, all are associated with traditional religious practices:
- Have a strong sense of purpose
- Take time to relieve stress - observe a Sabbath, meditate, pray, nap, play
- Belong - participate in a spiritual community
- Put loved ones first
- Join the right tribe - hang with others who practice a healthy life style.
I think it is interesting that Buettner - and numerous other researchers before him - find that these traditional religious practices contribute significantly to longevity and well-being.
The key is the last point -
- Join the right tribe
At Capilano United we have recently embarked on a program to remind ourselves of these crucial values and to encourage one another to practice them.
The program is S.O.S. - Soil for Our Souls, The Way of Jesus - A Spiritual Path for Today.
We are using U.N.I.T.E.D. as an acronym to help us remember and become more intentional about the habits that have stood the test of time as providing rich soil in which the seed of our soul may flourish and grow in health, maturity and wisdom.
Uplifted in daily prayer
Nourished through weekly rest and worship
Inspired by daily reading and memorizing of Scripture
Testifying about God's love through service and hospitality
Engaged in spiritual friendships and study
Dedicating time, talent, and treasure in gratitude to God
To learn more, visit our web site: www.soilforoursouls.com. But to actually start living longer and better, visit our church: at the corner of Philip Avenue and 22nd Street, North Vancouver, 10:30AM.
David Ewart
www.davidewart.ca
