Although it seems that America’s youth is obsessed with partying, underage drinking, and rebelling, there is actually an angelic lining in our genealogy. A study done by Search Institute's Center for Spiritual Development revealed that many a youth are interested in spirituality but rarely have the opportunity to speak about it. The study was collectively conducted in 17 different countries and spanned over a two year period. The demographics of the youth were diverse races and religions, including youth from the age of 12 to 25. The study found that 34% of youth classifies themselves as religious and spiritual. On the other hand, 23% of them classified themselves as only spiritual. Furthermore, when the researchers inquired what it meant to them to be spiritual, 41% answered “having a purpose in life,” and the other 33% said, “Belief in God.” Since the survey was widespread, and the first of its kind, the researchers recognize that it offers a snapshot into the spiritual development and practices amongst youth (Business Wire).
Spirituality is very important to my life. The reason I say, “To my life,” is because I believe spirituality has to be applied. I do believe that we are born with innate power of God in them, but I also know that it is not activated until we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior. Thus, the laws that come along with accepting Jesus calls us to apply those teachings to our lifestyles. This notion was not a hard pill for me to swallow because I grew up in a Baptist Church and have been raised as Christian. Therefore, believing that a God exists, and trying to be a good person does not cut it for me. Over the years, I’ve learned that I’ve had to sacrifice some things and let go of some people. However, whenever I go through a rough time or have to give up something, I am assured that something bigger and better is in the works for me. I have learned that as a Christian, I am called to do things that are beyond my personal life. the God I serve was compassionate and self less, so it is my duty to mirror his ways. In everything I do, I have to be mindful that (1) I have to exhibit unprecedented love for everyone, and (2) I have to keep my life in accordance with God’s Will.
I find it amazing that my generation is interested in something bigger than themselves. I think we all have gotten the gist that we are not protected every day, blessed, and favored without there being a source to those incentives. Universally, I think there is an air of confidence that there is someone, somewhere loving us and providing for us. In return, all we have to do is love to one another and fall in line with this source’s plan for our lives.
My sources: "Youth Around the World See Spirituality as Important, Want to Talk About It," by Business Wire (an online publication company)
http://www.allbusiness.com/society-social/religion-spirituality-religion/11675684-1.html
