LIVING WITH DIGNITY

February 9, 2008 During the course of this 3-hour workshop we had the opportunity to explore the meaning & value that dignity has for us personally. The following is what emerged in response to three reflective questions: What is dignity? Living with love Self respect Self worth Self esteem Self awareness Self knowledge Interacting with qualities Having an attitude towards others based on self respect Getting what I need from within The ability to connect within to my values & powers The ability to connect within to my values & powers Acting & interacting with the awareness & recognition of my spiritual identity H interaction: interdependent interaction where each can stand on their own and not become dependent on another Having the power to maintain an elevated stage Constantly seated on my throne Pure pride Source of attainment from within Being a candle that uses all relationships & interactions as an opportunity to give light The ability to understand deeply myself, others & all situations Self mastery of the virtues Equality

Why is it important to me? Frees me from needing to get from outside & others Keeps me connected to whats right Keeps me seated on my seat of self respect & others on theirs Keeps me focused on my true identity & in connection with God Maintains the true self as the focal point & foundation and brings me back there if I momentarily step away Is a protection & way of maintaining my self respect Allows me to live a life of value & meaning Gives me faith in myself and allows me to take responsibility Enables me to maintain a healthy emotional, spiritual & mental state It is the means to an end: valuing who I am ultimately gets me what I what - sense of attainment

What are the requirements/signs? Courage & faith in the self Recognition of value Being genuine - authenticity Self-confidence Self love Qualities of forgiveness & forgetting Integrity - words & deeds match Being centered Peace & tolerance Self knowledge & depth of understanding Being in harmony with the self - all thoughts, feelings & actions are in harmony Ability to understand & accommodate Being peaceful, happy & elevated Ability to listen - an awareness of how I talk to myself & others My words uplift others Ability to benefit others Attracts prosperity (what you generate within attracts without) Dig(u)nity: having the ability to dig deep within and connect with yourself (the u) creating unity and wholeness A relationship with God who can override any obstacles/challenges