The Rio Chama Blog

In Richard Rohr’s 2014 book, Eager to Love: The Alternative Way of Francis of Assisi, the specifics of spirituality are examined through the life of St. Francis.

These two words are becoming increasingly familiar as more and more women are coming forward with reports of being sexually assaulted and harassed by males in entertainment, political, athletic, and educational positions. The prevalence of these incidents is alarming.

Even though we may eat right, exercise, follow doctor’s orders, take medications/supplements, meditate, and maintain a positive attitude, there may be times when we succumb to an illness or injury. At this point we can turn to a natural healing process within each of us—exemplified by a method originating in ancient Hawaiian teachings termed Ho’oponopono. This technique involves letting go of toxic energies (emotions and thoughts) and welcoming and allowing the impact of divine thoughts, words, deeds, and actions.

Adapting to change is an ongoing part of life. Often I think of the Charles Darwin quote: “It is not the strongest or the most intelligent who will survive, but those who can best manage change.” Some changes are easy while others are difficult; some anticipated and planned for, while others hit us out of the blue.

How we view sex depends a great deal on our upbringing: some parents view the act as harmful, unsavory, or unsafe. Other parents rejoice in its existence and pleasure. While the idea of sacred sex is currently gaining attention, few of our parents’ generation gave any thought to the role of one’s spirituality in the expression of sexuality.