Let’s begin by defining spirituality and how it differs from religion.

Religions are collectives that organize a belief system and break that system down into rules and rituals. To be associated with a particular religion, you are required to follow all the rules and participate in the rituals. Religion tends to be an all-or-nothing proposition. It’s impossible to be only part of a religion.

Spiritual people believe that we all exist within the same great, powerful force. This spiritual force has many names, such as God, Universe, Spirit, Holy Spirit, Source, Divine, etc. The names are many, and they vary by culture as well as country. In the end, no matter what the name, it is all the same for spiritual beings and it is defined as love.

Religions tend to separate people based upon their religious affiliation and often vehemently reject other religions, claiming that only theirs is true and right. However, spiritual beings believe that universal love is available for all without judgment. Spiritual beings know that we are all on our own unique journey.

Spirituality has no rules. Instead, it has a universal law. That law is one of love and compassion. Similar to the universal law of gravity, there are consequences if you break it.

With spirituality, one feels a deep connection to their Creator, those around them, and themselves. Unlike religions, the Creator is not an external force that we must look up to and direct our prayers. Instead, the Creator is found within each of us and in everything around us.

Spiritual people are often thought of as those who spend long hours meditating, practicing yoga, burning incense, and consuming a vegetarian diet. But this is not the case. Spiritual beings come in all shapes and sizes.

Now that we have spirituality defined, we can look at the warrior part. A warrior stands up for and defends their beliefs. They are unyielding and see their life as a calling and their work as a mission. A spiritual warrior is uncompromising when speaking their truth and standing by their convictions as they go through life’s battles. They know that the universal force of love will lead, guide, and protect them in every aspect of their lives, even when times get tough.

In today’s world, where evil seems to be coming from around every corner, a spiritual warrior holds the light so that others can see. Spiritual warriors question everything that isn’t based in love, and they possess strong ethics and values. They believe that every one of us is worthy of a good life that is abundant with both health and wealth.

Similar to a lighthouse, a spiritual warrior will stand silently in the storm, night and day, sending out a beacon of hope for those needing assistance on their journey. Yet, similar to a well-trained lifeguard, they refuse to be pulled down by those who choose to live in the dark.

They believe that life’s challenges are a part of a larger plan, and every challenge is meant to build strength and character. And they know, based on their own experiences, we all need a safe port in the storm of life every now and then. This is why they always reach for and provide compassion and understanding but never pity.

Although many spiritual warriors are looked upon as teachers and thought leaders, they also remain perpetual students of life. They maintain steadfast confidence and are known to be dependable and loyal beyond measure.

That is a spiritual warrior, and I am proud to be one! Are you a spiritual warrior too?