Spiritual revival

What brands do you associate with?

I’m not the type to stick loyally to brands. I prefer to shop with an open mind, evaluating products objectively based on quality, value, and suitability to my needs and budget. Brand names don’t sway me one way or another – I’ll buy generics, name brands, or whatever offers me the best experience. Sure, there are products I gravitate to, but only because they’ve earned my business by delivering consistently, not empty promises.

The same goes for my spiritual life. I follow my own path without adhering strictly to a particular tradition or institution. My faith develops through genuine moments of connection, not from identifying with a label. I explore life’s mysteries with an open heart, collaborating with others when our values align. For me, it’s about the journey, not the destination.

What could you do more of?

I am driven by an insatiable curiosity to explore, learn, and experience all that life has to offer. There is so much more I wish to accomplish, contribute, and create. Though my time is limited, my thirst for growth is not. Each new day is an opportunity to challenge myself, make a difference, and step outside my comfort zone. I aim to squeeze out every last drop from this life – to try, to care, and to maximize each moment. I do not want to merely exist, but rather live boldly, freely, and completely. There is so much more within me longing to be realized. I desire to fully become who and what I’m capable of being. My journey is just beginning.”

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Some of the best advice I’ve ever received is to pray for wisdom when facing difficult decisions. During times of uncertainty, I’ve learned to quiet my anxious mind through prayer and ask the Divine for clarity and discernment. Rather than rushing into an important choice, I first take time to connect spiritually. This allows me to become more aware of my inner truth. I open my heart to receive guidance, then carefully weigh my options rationally.

Once I’ve gathered information and listened to wise counsel, I tune inward. With all the chatter of the mind set aside, I’m able to hear the gentle whisperings of my higher self. A sense of inner knowing surfaces as to the best path forward. This intuitive inkling comes through as a feeling of peace and rightness about a particular option. After praying for illumination, taking time to evaluate rationally, and then listening to my soul’s wisdom, I’m able to make decisions with confidence and courage. Relying on both spiritual guidance and critical analysis has served me well. My life has been richer for heeding this advice to seek Divine wisdom while also using my intellect to make prayerfully informed choices.

What things give you energy?

Prayer and meditation serve as powerful sources of spiritual energy for me. These practices provide me with a deep sense of inner peace and connection to something greater than myself. When I engage in prayer and meditation, I take the time to quiet my mind, reflect on my beliefs, and find solace in the stillness of the moment. This spiritual energy sustains me, offering clarity and purpose in my daily life.

On the other hand, my physical energy is replenished through the enjoyable activity of playing pickleball. This dynamic sport not only keeps me physically fit but also serves as a delightful outlet for my competitive spirit. Whether it’s the exhilarating rallies, quick movements on the court, or the camaraderie with fellow players, pickleball invigorates me. The physical energy I gain from this sport translates into increased vitality and stamina throughout my day.

What’s your all-time favorite album?

My favorite music album of all time is the legendary 1963 recording of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony by the Berlin Philharmonic directed by Herbert von Karajan. This masterful piece holds special significance for me, particularly the famous fourth movement with vocals from the chorus and soloists. The lyrics they sing come from Friedrich Schiller’s ode “An die Freude” (“Ode to Joy”), a poem emphasizing ideals of human brotherhood and the hope for freedom and unity. As the chorus passionately sings aloud Schiller’s uplifting words set to Beethoven’s music, I feel deeply moved by the powerful message affirming our shared humanity. The orchestral passages throughout also stir my emotions, from the solemn opening chords to the triumphant swell during the “Ode to Joy” finale. When I listen to von Karajan lead the Berlin Philharmonic on this album, I am transported by the sheer majesty and artistry of the performance. When I want to be inspired and uplifted by phenomenal classical music, I turn to this album, my unequivocal favorite.

Which topics would you like to be more informed about?

I like to stay informed about the latest advancements in science, as they provide us with profound insights into the inner workings of the universe. Additionally, I find it equally enriching to seek wisdom from spiritual leaders to explore the fundamental question of why we are here.

Science allows us to unravel the mysteries of the cosmos, from the smallest particles to the vast expanse of space, helping us comprehend the intricate mechanisms governing our existence. It unveils the beauty of the natural world and offers a rational perspective on our place within it.

On the other hand, engaging with spiritual leaders and their teachings provides a different dimension to my quest for understanding. They offer insights into the purpose and meaning of life beyond the realm of empirical knowledge. These leaders often guide us in exploring our inner selves, our connections with others, and our greater purpose in the grand tapestry of existence.

In merging these two pursuits—scientific discovery and spiritual wisdom—I aim to form a more comprehensive and holistic understanding of both the universe and our role within it. This synthesis allows me to appreciate the wonders of the cosmos while seeking a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment in my own journey through life.

What would your life be like without music?

Music and art are divine gifts that enrich our existence on Earth. Growing up in the Western Hemisphere, my life was imbued with music from the very beginning, from my mother’s lullabies and Latin American folk melodies to the infectious rhythms of the Caribbean that made me dance. However, the most profound blessing was the discovery of Beethoven and the sheer joy I find in his masterpieces. For me, music is life.

How do you celebrate holidays?

I celebrate two significant holidays each year that hold profound meaning in my life. They bring together ancestral traditions, foster family togetherness, and enhance spiritual awareness. Growing up as a Catholic Christian, these holidays are Christmas and Easter. They commemorate the birth and death of Jesus, who came to Earth to guide us on the path to the Divine by emphasizing love for our fellow humans, respect for all living creatures, and the importance of caring for our planet.

Write about your most epic baking or cooking fail.

The Divine power, in its infinite wisdom, has bestowed upon us humans various skills. Since I have not been blessed with the ability to cook, I can humbly say that I’ve never encountered any culinary failures! Instead, I have been gifted with the ability to effectively communicate ideas and concepts to others. I fully intend to utilize this gift until the day I join the Divine’s eternal glory.”

Share a lesson you wish you had learned earlier in life.

I regret not realizing sooner that life encompasses more than just a relentless pursuit of success and material prosperity. It has become increasingly evident to me that spiritual growth holds equal significance, especially in the context of deepening our comprehension of our connection with the Divine.

In my earlier years, I predominantly focused on achieving tangible goals, believing that material success was the ultimate measure of a fulfilling life. However, as time has passed, I’ve come to appreciate that there is a profound need for spiritual development. It entails exploring the depths of our inner selves, understanding our purpose, and nurturing a connection with the Divine, which transcends the materialistic aspects of existence.