By Rev. Melissa Leath

Being on a spiritual path does not ensure instant enlightenment. “What?” you say. Sorry, but our life experiences are a bit more intricate than that. I like to think of life as being simple, but there are so many twists and turns---challenges all the way, that to have instant anything, especially enlightenment could be undesirable.

However, making a decision to follow a spiritual path does ensure the greater likelihood of enlightenment. What we need to remember is this: having the desire to live a spiritual life is the path to enlightenment. And as soon as the decision is made, then the challenges come! It does not mean that we will always make the correct choice. Many of us repeatedly make the wrong choices. But the more we do, the easier it is to look at the choices and be aware of another way.

Some call this the way of righteousness, which merely means doing that which is right, unmistaken, well in body, mind and spirit. But the creator gives us numerable chances to right our thinking. ‘Spiritual Growth’ is not the name of a weekend intensive that will award you a certification in enlightenment. Rather, it is a lifetime intensive.

It is the way we act on the experiences that we encounter that hones our spiritual growth. The hardships we endure, difficult relationships, the loved ones that we lose, the financial challenges we face. These are the things that polish our spirit. In the polishing, we receive enlightenment. This life you are living right now—this is your spiritual growth.

REV. MELISSA LEATH, BA, known internationally for her accurate readings and gentle counseling techniques, is an Intuitive Spiritual Medium and Metaphysical Counselor.

Rev. Leath is a holistic spiritual minister and director of the Orange Blossom Center for Enrichment, in Springfield, OH. Being a Reiki Master/Teacher, she instructs Reiki Healing Arts, Human Energy Field, Parapsychology and Meditation at Clark State Community College.

You may contact Rev. Leath by email or calling 937-323-5346.