Human Potential (Mental, Intellectual, Emotional and Spiritual)
Actualizing & Achieving (Activating) your Human Potential
For people who have chosen to go on a journey of personal growth.
The journey is a process of transitions and constant series of transformation -
towards the fulfillment of deep, inner needs of empowerment.
It will be the biggest challenge you will ever face: for you cannot make it happen, you
can only let it happen: a very hard lesson - and we can help.
You’ll confront your beliefs, biases, prejudices and fears. You will also encounter
your unresolved “issues” and baggage” (these are called barriers).
Actualizing & Achieving (Activating) your Human Potential
For people who have chosen to go on a journey of personal growth.
The journey is a process of transitions and constant series of transformation -
towards the fulfillment of deep, inner needs of empowerment.
It will be the biggest challenge you will ever face: for you cannot make it happen, you
can only let it happen: a very hard lesson - and we can help.
You’ll confront your beliefs, biases, prejudices and fears. You will also encounter
your unresolved “issues” and baggage” (these are called barriers).
| "Know Thyself" -Plato |
An holistic approach to developing your innate human spiritual potential
| A liberation journey of personal growth, empowerment and healing the wounded child within. |
Realizing (to make real) and achieving your potential is the most difficult journey you will embark on because
the barriers. Living in such a culture is like living amidst insanity - and unless we make intelligent choices,
that insanity will overtake us as well.
The "issues" are most generally connected to the wounded inner child,
and will remain barriers until dealt with.
Humans are not just physical/mental beings. They have many dimensions that are integral parts of who they
uniquely are: physical, mental-intellectual, emotional and spiritual (and physical). “Integrating” all of them
will be a challenge.
the barriers. Living in such a culture is like living amidst insanity - and unless we make intelligent choices,
that insanity will overtake us as well.
The "issues" are most generally connected to the wounded inner child,
and will remain barriers until dealt with.
Humans are not just physical/mental beings. They have many dimensions that are integral parts of who they
uniquely are: physical, mental-intellectual, emotional and spiritual (and physical). “Integrating” all of them
will be a challenge.
| Humanity's potential is infinite We have no idea of what human beings are capable of becoming. People living in a world free of fear and communicating freely will Create a world that will be Beautiful beyond imagining. |
My role is to help make that journey easier for you: I support people through Counselling - as well as
workshops, clinics and seminars (available anywhere).
There are no "perfect" people, or wholly actualized people - but there are people who are in the process of
actualizing their potential. Full potential is an unknown - it is an ideal to work towards: a lifetime task.
The universe (multi-verse) unfolds as it should. People unfold as they should - depending on the choices they
make in life, and their reactions to life: you can either be at the mercy of everything that comes along - or
take charge - the choice is yours!
All your current and previous beliefs, values, habits will be challenged. You can benefit from the synergy of
togetherness of community here. And you will be transformed & find empowerment! Liberation does not
come without a price.
workshops, clinics and seminars (available anywhere).
There are no "perfect" people, or wholly actualized people - but there are people who are in the process of
actualizing their potential. Full potential is an unknown - it is an ideal to work towards: a lifetime task.
The universe (multi-verse) unfolds as it should. People unfold as they should - depending on the choices they
make in life, and their reactions to life: you can either be at the mercy of everything that comes along - or
take charge - the choice is yours!
All your current and previous beliefs, values, habits will be challenged. You can benefit from the synergy of
togetherness of community here. And you will be transformed & find empowerment! Liberation does not
come without a price.
| Click on image to enlarge, click BACK to return here. |
Henry David Thoreau said, "If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he
hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured or far away."
Going beyond “culturally prescribed rules” entails a lot. This journey may be the hardest task and challenge
you will ever face.
For here is where you encounter - yourself!
Activating, Developing & Achieving our potential is a journey: not a destination.
What it is instead is a process journey of overcoming the barriers and obstacles to growth and
development: a journey with positive consequences and benefits.
"Human Potential" is an often-encountered concept, and mostly a misused and misleading concept: this
concept is often promoted.
No one can "give" you increased human potential - not matter what their claims are. Only you can increase
it, and it will be a long, and often difficult journey. It is not some grandiose endeavour: it is where you
encounter & confront yourself!
The journey of unfolding human potential towards self-empowerment is a transformative one: this means
you will be transformed.
In the process, you will transcend who you are, what you believed, and how you lived your live previously.
hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured or far away."
Going beyond “culturally prescribed rules” entails a lot. This journey may be the hardest task and challenge
you will ever face.
For here is where you encounter - yourself!
Activating, Developing & Achieving our potential is a journey: not a destination.
What it is instead is a process journey of overcoming the barriers and obstacles to growth and
development: a journey with positive consequences and benefits.
"Human Potential" is an often-encountered concept, and mostly a misused and misleading concept: this
concept is often promoted.
No one can "give" you increased human potential - not matter what their claims are. Only you can increase
it, and it will be a long, and often difficult journey. It is not some grandiose endeavour: it is where you
encounter & confront yourself!
The journey of unfolding human potential towards self-empowerment is a transformative one: this means
you will be transformed.
In the process, you will transcend who you are, what you believed, and how you lived your live previously.
Your most difficult challenge will be yourself!
Facing your inner "self" is a daunting, and frightening task. It is not something that a few
seminars, books, or a quick course can accomplish.
It means "stepping outside the box" - a very difficult thing to do for most people.
What it will all end up looking like is impossible for anyone else to predict: we are each
different, and we will each arrange and build the contents of "our box" based on who we are, and
who we are becoming.
There are barriers and obstacles (see below; also, explore the website for detailed information
on some of the major barriers and obstacles). The benefits, however, make it entirely
worthwhile.
At Dawn Cove Abbey I take this journey seriously: building on such works as Maslow, and Carl
Rogers (On Becoming A Person), Albert Ellis (Rational-Emotive approach), Symbolic
Interactionism, and oriental philosophies, and help is provided.
Your journey is not a selfish endeavour - the more you become a "full" human - the better you
are with those around you.
The journey to actualizing and expanding your human potential is one that has no end because life
is dynamic, and life around us is dynamic; as is our ability to understand things. Nothing is static.
As you increase your knowledge and understanding, you begin to see new possibilities. As you
explore and incorporate them into "who we are at the moment", we will be transformed again -
and see yet other possibilities - constantly transcending what we knew and understood before.
And this process will be repeated time after time. No one knows what a human who has achieved
their full potential "looks like": no one has ever achieved it. That is why it is a journey and
not a destination!
"Human Potential" is a concept the embraces two levels: the potential an individual can
strive to expand, and the potential the whole human race can strive for.
Facing your inner "self" is a daunting, and frightening task. It is not something that a few
seminars, books, or a quick course can accomplish.
It means "stepping outside the box" - a very difficult thing to do for most people.
What it will all end up looking like is impossible for anyone else to predict: we are each
different, and we will each arrange and build the contents of "our box" based on who we are, and
who we are becoming.
There are barriers and obstacles (see below; also, explore the website for detailed information
on some of the major barriers and obstacles). The benefits, however, make it entirely
worthwhile.
At Dawn Cove Abbey I take this journey seriously: building on such works as Maslow, and Carl
Rogers (On Becoming A Person), Albert Ellis (Rational-Emotive approach), Symbolic
Interactionism, and oriental philosophies, and help is provided.
Your journey is not a selfish endeavour - the more you become a "full" human - the better you
are with those around you.
The journey to actualizing and expanding your human potential is one that has no end because life
is dynamic, and life around us is dynamic; as is our ability to understand things. Nothing is static.
As you increase your knowledge and understanding, you begin to see new possibilities. As you
explore and incorporate them into "who we are at the moment", we will be transformed again -
and see yet other possibilities - constantly transcending what we knew and understood before.
And this process will be repeated time after time. No one knows what a human who has achieved
their full potential "looks like": no one has ever achieved it. That is why it is a journey and
not a destination!
"Human Potential" is a concept the embraces two levels: the potential an individual can
strive to expand, and the potential the whole human race can strive for.
These are two separate, but related things. I believe
that in order to accomplish #2, the first requirement is
for people (#1) to make changes toward realizing their
full potential (self-actualization & empowerment).
It is a journey with no end - because we do not yet know
what the full potential consists of, what it "looks like",
and whether or not perhaps it expands as new
milestones are reached, and new possibilities unfold.
This page concerns individual human potential: a journey
of transformation: inner transformation - which will
lead to outward, visible changes.
It is a journey, or process in which you restructure the
"reality" that was shaped by your culture.
The combination of inner/outer changes are examples of
what we mean by a sacrament (an outward sign of an
inner change).
that in order to accomplish #2, the first requirement is
for people (#1) to make changes toward realizing their
full potential (self-actualization & empowerment).
It is a journey with no end - because we do not yet know
what the full potential consists of, what it "looks like",
and whether or not perhaps it expands as new
milestones are reached, and new possibilities unfold.
This page concerns individual human potential: a journey
of transformation: inner transformation - which will
lead to outward, visible changes.
It is a journey, or process in which you restructure the
"reality" that was shaped by your culture.
The combination of inner/outer changes are examples of
what we mean by a sacrament (an outward sign of an
inner change).
There is no aspect of your "reality" that will not be potentially challenged:
your beliefs, values, sense of right and wrong - customs, ethics, etc.
Your sense of "reality" will be changed.
Unfolding your human potential can be done in many ways: it involves all the dimensions of what it is to be
human: holistically (also see Seminars/Workshops).
This journey involves, and incorporates, all your human dimensions: mental, intellectual, emotional and spiritual
(I leave the physical to others).
There are barriers and obstacles to developing your potential!
All of those shape your attitude and belief as to what is possible for you - what is appropriate for you, what is
"right" for you - and what is not possible. See below for more barriers.
This means that, admirable as the goal of actualizing human potential is, the possibility is, in a way, a fallacy. As
Colin Wilson states, it is a lie propagated by our intellect and the ideology around us. We are bound by our
culture, and our belief and value-systems.
Achieving your fuller potential means coming to terms with those - and then transcending them. It begins with
yourself: in Plato's words, "Know Thyself" - for unless you fully know who, and what, you are, you have no basis
for moving forward.
Discovering the answers to that - may well be the journey: Acknowledging Human Potential starts with valuing
the inherent worth and dignity of each person; the sacredness of human potential and the empowerment it
brings into all the dimensions of life. There are transition stages toward transformation.
your beliefs, values, sense of right and wrong - customs, ethics, etc.
Your sense of "reality" will be changed.
Unfolding your human potential can be done in many ways: it involves all the dimensions of what it is to be
human: holistically (also see Seminars/Workshops).
This journey involves, and incorporates, all your human dimensions: mental, intellectual, emotional and spiritual
(I leave the physical to others).
There are barriers and obstacles to developing your potential!
- The main barrier is our own internalized thought and belief system.
- Our culture is another.
- Other people and circumstances in our lives present yet one more.
All of those shape your attitude and belief as to what is possible for you - what is appropriate for you, what is
"right" for you - and what is not possible. See below for more barriers.
This means that, admirable as the goal of actualizing human potential is, the possibility is, in a way, a fallacy. As
Colin Wilson states, it is a lie propagated by our intellect and the ideology around us. We are bound by our
culture, and our belief and value-systems.
Achieving your fuller potential means coming to terms with those - and then transcending them. It begins with
yourself: in Plato's words, "Know Thyself" - for unless you fully know who, and what, you are, you have no basis
for moving forward.
Discovering the answers to that - may well be the journey: Acknowledging Human Potential starts with valuing
the inherent worth and dignity of each person; the sacredness of human potential and the empowerment it
brings into all the dimensions of life. There are transition stages toward transformation.
There is nothing mysterious or new about that. Using the concepts behind the judeo-christian (and other)
teachings of becoming actualized people, as a base, the goal and journey will be learning to transcend them.
Your intellect (mind) is a major internal obstacle: it believes that we are separate: yet our deep inner self
knows we are not - that we all are part of everything, and everyone around us - past, present and future.
The journey is one of "learning" - and that learning is the process through which we activate and expand our
"human spiritual potential" - always in concert with the "divine" - however we understand it: it still remains
humanistic. In the search for our full human potential, we will also go far beyond the constrictions of our
culture.
Emotions present a huge barrier as well: in fact, our lives consist in large part of a constant struggle and
tension between our reason and our emotions: and unless we have achieved a degree of empowerment, inner
discipline and control, whenever there is a clash between our reason and our emotions, emotions almost always
"win".
Culture (and all its ramifications) will be one of the biggest obstacles we have to deal with - because it has
"determined" so many of our internal beliefs and values: including what we believe is possible for us - and what
is impossible: barriers and blocks to transformation!
The graphic top right illustrates this somewhat.
Other Barriers are: Daily life with all it's challenges and unexpected situations; Stress;
Family/Marital/Relationship problems;Illness; Financial problems; Grief; Addictions, and many others. All of
these are among the things we have to deal with, or set in order, to continue our journey.
teachings of becoming actualized people, as a base, the goal and journey will be learning to transcend them.
Your intellect (mind) is a major internal obstacle: it believes that we are separate: yet our deep inner self
knows we are not - that we all are part of everything, and everyone around us - past, present and future.
The journey is one of "learning" - and that learning is the process through which we activate and expand our
"human spiritual potential" - always in concert with the "divine" - however we understand it: it still remains
humanistic. In the search for our full human potential, we will also go far beyond the constrictions of our
culture.
Emotions present a huge barrier as well: in fact, our lives consist in large part of a constant struggle and
tension between our reason and our emotions: and unless we have achieved a degree of empowerment, inner
discipline and control, whenever there is a clash between our reason and our emotions, emotions almost always
"win".
Culture (and all its ramifications) will be one of the biggest obstacles we have to deal with - because it has
"determined" so many of our internal beliefs and values: including what we believe is possible for us - and what
is impossible: barriers and blocks to transformation!
The graphic top right illustrates this somewhat.
Other Barriers are: Daily life with all it's challenges and unexpected situations; Stress;
Family/Marital/Relationship problems;Illness; Financial problems; Grief; Addictions, and many others. All of
these are among the things we have to deal with, or set in order, to continue our journey.
The drive toward developing and realizing our full human potential is a
life-long process, as we've seen:
reaching for the divine with our human limitations.
It is a journey that very much involves what Abraham Maslow
characterized as the "hierarchy of needs" the five broader layers are:
The graphic at the right illustrates his concept. (See below, and
Maslow for expanded detail and information).
life-long process, as we've seen:
reaching for the divine with our human limitations.
It is a journey that very much involves what Abraham Maslow
characterized as the "hierarchy of needs" the five broader layers are:
- the physiological needs,
- the needs for safety and security,
- the needs for love and belonging,
- the needs for esteem, and
- the need to actualize the self, in that order
The graphic at the right illustrates his concept. (See below, and
Maslow for expanded detail and information).
A Brief introduction to Maslow's concepts - from most important (primary) to the "less important"
ones (for survival):
Spirituality and Spiritual Humanism recognize the inter-connectedness of all things: an holistic blend of
humanism-theism.
Realizing (achieving) our full human potential requires development, growth and integration of all the
dimensions of life that make us human: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual: that is the holistic way.
It may not be possible to do so fully - we don't know the limits" see below
When we are fully integrated, we are fully whole. When there is no complete integration, there is no
complete wholeness. Wholeness is known as "holistic", which in essence means, to incorporate all aspect -
or the "whole".
There is a major "caution" here, however: generally, the "potential" we can reach is prescribed by our
culture. Transcending those cultural prescriptions are a major challenge. More on this coming. To
understand "integration" more fully, see Glossary".
ones (for survival):
- Physiological Needs (primary - lowest on pyramid). Specific hungers, food, water; shelter; sex;
air; general survival.
- Safety Needs (2nd from bottom). Security; stability; dependency; protection; freedom from
fear; anxiety; chaos; need for structure, order, limits, etc.
- Belongingness and Love Needs (3rd from bottom). Love; affection; belonging; need for family,
friends, groups, territorial, community.
- Esteem Needs (2nd from top). Self-esteem (self-worth); esteem of others; achievement
recognition; dignity; appreciation; self-confidence; mastery of one's self and one's environment.
- Need For Self-Actualization (Highest) Desire to help others; ability to direct one's own life;
rich emotional experiences; sense of meaning to one's life.
Spirituality and Spiritual Humanism recognize the inter-connectedness of all things: an holistic blend of
humanism-theism.
Realizing (achieving) our full human potential requires development, growth and integration of all the
dimensions of life that make us human: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual: that is the holistic way.
It may not be possible to do so fully - we don't know the limits" see below
When we are fully integrated, we are fully whole. When there is no complete integration, there is no
complete wholeness. Wholeness is known as "holistic", which in essence means, to incorporate all aspect -
or the "whole".
There is a major "caution" here, however: generally, the "potential" we can reach is prescribed by our
culture. Transcending those cultural prescriptions are a major challenge. More on this coming. To
understand "integration" more fully, see Glossary".
And since no-one is separate, or an island, (see graphic above with YOU in centre); and we all live among
others, as we achieve various stages of
actualizing our potential - others should be able to notice, or see the changes. There are always outward
signs of change - in behaviour, actions attitude etc. In catholic spiritual terminology that is a sacrament
(outward sign of an inner change).
Without the integration of all our dimensions, success toward wholeness will always elude us: we will not
realize (achieve) our full human potential. Yet, we are well on the way, for even in the christian scriptures
it is written: "Then the LORD God said, "See, the man has become like one of us". Genesis 4; and "I said,
You are gods (God)". Psalm 82:6.
The Dawn Cove Abbey approach is Humanistic because we believe in people & human potential: spiritual
because we believe everything (and everyone) is inter-connected - the web of life. Please explore the
site & its resources.
Culture: our culture, through education, the media, advertising etc constantly points out to us what our
"potential is" (actually, they are telling us what it "should be" - "they" know what's best for us. The
graphic to the right illustrates their version.
While, of course, those are all important elements and components of human life - but if we leave them
just as they are represented there - we shall always have that vague restlessness inside us - that tells
us "there is more".
Many humans have made great strides toward accomplishing their potential, and humankind has made
considerable progress over the centuries.
Shakespeare wrote:
"What a piece of work is man (humankind)!
How noble in reason!
How infinite in faculty!
in form, in moving, how express and admirable!
in action how like an angel!
`in apprehension how like a god!
the beauty of the world!
the paragon of animals! (creatura)"
-Shakespeare (Hamlet)
others, as we achieve various stages of
actualizing our potential - others should be able to notice, or see the changes. There are always outward
signs of change - in behaviour, actions attitude etc. In catholic spiritual terminology that is a sacrament
(outward sign of an inner change).
Without the integration of all our dimensions, success toward wholeness will always elude us: we will not
realize (achieve) our full human potential. Yet, we are well on the way, for even in the christian scriptures
it is written: "Then the LORD God said, "See, the man has become like one of us". Genesis 4; and "I said,
You are gods (God)". Psalm 82:6.
The Dawn Cove Abbey approach is Humanistic because we believe in people & human potential: spiritual
because we believe everything (and everyone) is inter-connected - the web of life. Please explore the
site & its resources.
Culture: our culture, through education, the media, advertising etc constantly points out to us what our
"potential is" (actually, they are telling us what it "should be" - "they" know what's best for us. The
graphic to the right illustrates their version.
While, of course, those are all important elements and components of human life - but if we leave them
just as they are represented there - we shall always have that vague restlessness inside us - that tells
us "there is more".
Many humans have made great strides toward accomplishing their potential, and humankind has made
considerable progress over the centuries.
Shakespeare wrote:
"What a piece of work is man (humankind)!
How noble in reason!
How infinite in faculty!
in form, in moving, how express and admirable!
in action how like an angel!
`in apprehension how like a god!
the beauty of the world!
the paragon of animals! (creatura)"
-Shakespeare (Hamlet)
There has always been a quest for developing human understanding and potential: Paul said, "For now we
see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I
am known. He could only have been referring to how humankind would expand their knowledge & potential in
the centuries to come. Always in the process of expanding their potential - always having the goal to
actualize their potential fully.
There will be transformation: you will be transformed - become a different person. But, in many ways it
will be a solitary journey. Others in your will not join you, nor will they necessarily understand your quest.
Barriers will be erected, and a gulf will emerge between you and them. These, most likely, will not be your
doing - but theirs.
This is a most important consideration for you, because there is no "undoing" or reverse in this. Once
someone has "seen farther" than those around them a separation or gulf will exist. But - there are others
on that same journey, and once you are in progress, you will encounter some of them. These will become
your "new family" so to speak.
Those who are in the process of developing their full human potential are aware: aware of who they are,
aware of where they are at all times. They live in the moment - yet always aware and in touch with the
greater context of their lives like the message of Richard Alpert (Baba Ram Dass) in his book, "Be Here
Now".
I believe in "A healthy mind in a healthy body": an approach based on "Re-uniting Mind, Body & Spirit"; that
reality is triune, not just dualistic: it is holistic. This makes us "humanistic", and theistic (not everything in
life is reduced to "either-or" choices, it can also be "both-and" or "and-also" (Jung and Buber). Physical
health is a direct reflection of mental-spiritual health. Helping empower people is my goal. The "oneness of
body and mind/spirit is a core, driving concept at Dawn Cove Abbey. I am firmly established in the old
non-split tradition that blends humanism and theism: the drive to realizing, and actualizing our full Human
Potential - in all its dimensions.
Other names in the Human Potential field are: Carl Rogers, Albert Ellis and Abraham Maslow (different
article), and Carl Gustav Jung: these men hada profound effect on how we understand people, and how we
help people improve their lives. All these men have also had a profound influence on my training and my
approach in helping people heal and grow. I owe them a huge debt.
see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I
am known. He could only have been referring to how humankind would expand their knowledge & potential in
the centuries to come. Always in the process of expanding their potential - always having the goal to
actualize their potential fully.
There will be transformation: you will be transformed - become a different person. But, in many ways it
will be a solitary journey. Others in your will not join you, nor will they necessarily understand your quest.
Barriers will be erected, and a gulf will emerge between you and them. These, most likely, will not be your
doing - but theirs.
This is a most important consideration for you, because there is no "undoing" or reverse in this. Once
someone has "seen farther" than those around them a separation or gulf will exist. But - there are others
on that same journey, and once you are in progress, you will encounter some of them. These will become
your "new family" so to speak.
Those who are in the process of developing their full human potential are aware: aware of who they are,
aware of where they are at all times. They live in the moment - yet always aware and in touch with the
greater context of their lives like the message of Richard Alpert (Baba Ram Dass) in his book, "Be Here
Now".
I believe in "A healthy mind in a healthy body": an approach based on "Re-uniting Mind, Body & Spirit"; that
reality is triune, not just dualistic: it is holistic. This makes us "humanistic", and theistic (not everything in
life is reduced to "either-or" choices, it can also be "both-and" or "and-also" (Jung and Buber). Physical
health is a direct reflection of mental-spiritual health. Helping empower people is my goal. The "oneness of
body and mind/spirit is a core, driving concept at Dawn Cove Abbey. I am firmly established in the old
non-split tradition that blends humanism and theism: the drive to realizing, and actualizing our full Human
Potential - in all its dimensions.
Other names in the Human Potential field are: Carl Rogers, Albert Ellis and Abraham Maslow (different
article), and Carl Gustav Jung: these men hada profound effect on how we understand people, and how we
help people improve their lives. All these men have also had a profound influence on my training and my
approach in helping people heal and grow. I owe them a huge debt.
The Dawn Cove Abbey tradition values the inherent worth, dignity and sacredness of each person
The Dawn Cove Abbey tradition is:
Features of spirituality
Intra-personal (our inner connection or integration): self-worth, respect for self and others, authenticity,
honesty, truth, humility, a sense of purpose, initiative, the will to succeed, commitment to inner growth, desire
for meaning, self-awareness (physical, emotional, intellectual), being in the moment, self-transcendence,
confidence, enthusiasm, moral code and ethics, increased awareness of others, self-determination,
integration, intuition, passion, compassion, love, hope, faith, wholeness, openness
Extra-personal (our connectedness with others): recognizing the unity of all things, being connected with
something larger than self, harmony with the universe, having just relationships with others, helping others to
self-actualize, developing more responsible interpersonal relationships.
The Dawn Cove Abbey tradition is:
- a humanistic - spiritual (not religious) community helping men, women, and children who are on a
transformative journey of: holistic personal growth. - not a typical abbey in the traditional style - I carry on in the tradition of Abbey Dawn - to help people
anywhere overcome their barriers to actualize their potential. - Humanistic: because I believe that people are the agents, and our human cultures and institutions are
the agencies.
- Spiritual (connectedness): because I believe everything (and everyone) is inter-connected - the web of
life.
Features of spirituality
Intra-personal (our inner connection or integration): self-worth, respect for self and others, authenticity,
honesty, truth, humility, a sense of purpose, initiative, the will to succeed, commitment to inner growth, desire
for meaning, self-awareness (physical, emotional, intellectual), being in the moment, self-transcendence,
confidence, enthusiasm, moral code and ethics, increased awareness of others, self-determination,
integration, intuition, passion, compassion, love, hope, faith, wholeness, openness
Extra-personal (our connectedness with others): recognizing the unity of all things, being connected with
something larger than self, harmony with the universe, having just relationships with others, helping others to
self-actualize, developing more responsible interpersonal relationships.
- We live in a world where kindness, decency, concern and consideration are viewed with suspicion, and are
often mistaken for weakness. - In our current socio-cultural world, these qualities appear to be more and more an exception, than a rule.
- My desire is to help promote understanding to change that through knowledge, understanding, personal
growth and healing.
All your current and previous beliefs, values, habits will be challenged. You can benefit from the synergy of
togetherness of community here. And you will be transformed! Liberation does not come without a price.
Empower yourself today. You are a seeker and remember:
Going beyond “culturally prescribed rules” entails a lot. This journey may be the hardest task and challenge you
will ever face. For here is where you encounter - yourself!
togetherness of community here. And you will be transformed! Liberation does not come without a price.
Empower yourself today. You are a seeker and remember:
- "Ask, and you shall receive" - all you need to do is to ask: for help, an ear, someone who cares, etc - we can
provide both. - "Seek, and you shall find" - in your search for new answers outside the box, the Dawn Cove Abbey
Community can help you. - "Knock, and the door shall be opened" - all you need to do is write, email or call - with no obligation: help on
your journey.
Going beyond “culturally prescribed rules” entails a lot. This journey may be the hardest task and challenge you
will ever face. For here is where you encounter - yourself!
This site is like a book: with chapters (materials, articles, documents, etc) around a common theme. The theme
is human life, empowerment, blocks, barriers, and achievement, into an integrated whole. It represents the
culmination of my life work: it is a "never-ending-story" book, because life is dynamic, never static - and full of
surprises. The site grows steadily as items are added, or revised.
Klaas Tuinman MA
Dawn Cove Abbey
Deerfield, Yarmouth County, Nova Scotia, Canada
2000-2009
is human life, empowerment, blocks, barriers, and achievement, into an integrated whole. It represents the
culmination of my life work: it is a "never-ending-story" book, because life is dynamic, never static - and full of
surprises. The site grows steadily as items are added, or revised.
Klaas Tuinman MA
Dawn Cove Abbey
Deerfield, Yarmouth County, Nova Scotia, Canada
2000-2009
Spiritual & Humanism: combining these two usually mutually exclusive concepts results in "spiritual humanism".
While they have generally become opposite, competing concepts and practices, it was not, and is not, necessary
for them to be so. Both are much misused, and both are very much misunderstood.
When they are combined and integrated they result in Spiritual Humanism, which includes: * Spirituality *
Humanism * Religion * Psyche & Soul * Morals/Ethics. These are "separate", yet very much related and
connected concepts.
.Spirituality: is an inner sense that there's greater than oneself: it is a recognition of a meaning to existence
that transcends one's immediate circumstances - it above all deals with a sense of "connectedness".
Humanism: is an approach to life with an emphasis on human culture, education and reason.
While they have generally become opposite, competing concepts and practices, it was not, and is not, necessary
for them to be so. Both are much misused, and both are very much misunderstood.
When they are combined and integrated they result in Spiritual Humanism, which includes: * Spirituality *
Humanism * Religion * Psyche & Soul * Morals/Ethics. These are "separate", yet very much related and
connected concepts.
.Spirituality: is an inner sense that there's greater than oneself: it is a recognition of a meaning to existence
that transcends one's immediate circumstances - it above all deals with a sense of "connectedness".
- It's a sense of meaning and purpose, a sense of self and 'that which is greater than self'. It can include
practices such as meditation and 'bonding rituals' which support such identity and relationship. It
produces a sense of 'belonging' (identification with).
- In a broad sense, spirituality is concerned with matters of the spirit. It may include belief in
supernatural powers, the way organized religion does, but its emphasis is on personal experience. - It is a way of living that emphasises a constant awareness of the spiritual dimension of nature. Yet it
does not acknowledge a contractual relationship between the material world and the spiritual.
Humanism: is an approach to life with an emphasis on human culture, education and reason.
- It began during the Renaissance (see Glossary) with a revival of interest in classical Greek and Roman
literature, culture, and language. Human nature and the dignity of man were considered to be the ultimate
thing, and the present life was emphasized as a worthy event in itself.
- This was in stark contrast to the previous (medieval) emphasis on the present life as simply being a
preparation for a future life. - This approach rejected supernaturalism and instead stresses the individual's dignity and worth and
capacity for self-realization through reason.
- The emphasis in humanism is entirely on human interests rather than on religion or the world of nature.
- Humanism that believes that the human being is the supreme being is known as secular humanism.
- When combined we have: spiritual humanism. However, other concepts, crucial to the description are
involved. - Humanism, because it is humans and their cultures and institutions that are the agents and agencies
through which the sacred operates.
Humanism believes in the perfectibility of human nature and view reason and education (see below) as the way
to achieve that - always bearing in mind that without the spiritual component the enterprise will fall short, or
fail. It tries to achieve its goals without hiding the distasteful, and often horrible realities of life, and the
importance of differences in power and wealth: so does Spiritual Humanism.
Spirituality (Dawn Cove Abbey definition): self-worth, respect for self and others, authenticity, honesty,
truth, humility, a sense of purpose, initiative, the will to succeed, commitment to inner growth, desire for
meaning, self-awareness (physical, emotional, intellectual, spiritual), being in the moment, self-transcendence,
confidence, enthusiasm, moral code and ethics, increased awareness of others, self-determination, integration,
intuition, passion, compassion, love, hope, faith, wholeness, openness. Also, a belief in God (However you
understand Him/Her, or a "Higher Power", for example).
Spirituality is above all, recognizing the unity of all things, being connected with something larger than self,
harmony with the universe (some call it God, other use different names), having just relationships with others,
helping others to self-actualize, developing more responsible interpersonal relationships (Chief Seattle
referred to it as the "web of life").
Historically, and likely before, people have always had a strong spiritual aspect or component in their lives. The
spiritual drive within each human produces the motivation to continue under whatever circumstances: it is the
source of hope, love, kindness, decency, respect and concern for all life, and true stewardship of the material
world in which we live.
"Human Potential" is a concept already familiar to millions - but perhaps not exactly in those words. At Dawn
Cove Abbey it is not a new-age practice: it is anything but new: it is based on the concepts behind the
Judeo-Christian teachings of becoming "better" people.
It is this that led Shakespeare to exclaim, "What a Piece of work is man".- see above
It is accomplished by following the teachings of holy scriptures, and of "doing unto others", and "treat our
neighbour as ourselves" - which means "learning" - and that learning is the process through which we activate
and enlarge our "human spiritual potential". It is always in concert with the "divine" (God, or "Higher Power" -
however we understand it.
-Dawn Cove Abbey's "philosophy", and mine.
Dawn Cove Abbey commemorates the Abbey Dawn tradition (see Dawn Cove Abbey).
to achieve that - always bearing in mind that without the spiritual component the enterprise will fall short, or
fail. It tries to achieve its goals without hiding the distasteful, and often horrible realities of life, and the
importance of differences in power and wealth: so does Spiritual Humanism.
Spirituality (Dawn Cove Abbey definition): self-worth, respect for self and others, authenticity, honesty,
truth, humility, a sense of purpose, initiative, the will to succeed, commitment to inner growth, desire for
meaning, self-awareness (physical, emotional, intellectual, spiritual), being in the moment, self-transcendence,
confidence, enthusiasm, moral code and ethics, increased awareness of others, self-determination, integration,
intuition, passion, compassion, love, hope, faith, wholeness, openness. Also, a belief in God (However you
understand Him/Her, or a "Higher Power", for example).
Spirituality is above all, recognizing the unity of all things, being connected with something larger than self,
harmony with the universe (some call it God, other use different names), having just relationships with others,
helping others to self-actualize, developing more responsible interpersonal relationships (Chief Seattle
referred to it as the "web of life").
Historically, and likely before, people have always had a strong spiritual aspect or component in their lives. The
spiritual drive within each human produces the motivation to continue under whatever circumstances: it is the
source of hope, love, kindness, decency, respect and concern for all life, and true stewardship of the material
world in which we live.
"Human Potential" is a concept already familiar to millions - but perhaps not exactly in those words. At Dawn
Cove Abbey it is not a new-age practice: it is anything but new: it is based on the concepts behind the
Judeo-Christian teachings of becoming "better" people.
It is this that led Shakespeare to exclaim, "What a Piece of work is man".- see above
It is accomplished by following the teachings of holy scriptures, and of "doing unto others", and "treat our
neighbour as ourselves" - which means "learning" - and that learning is the process through which we activate
and enlarge our "human spiritual potential". It is always in concert with the "divine" (God, or "Higher Power" -
however we understand it.
-Dawn Cove Abbey's "philosophy", and mine.
Dawn Cove Abbey commemorates the Abbey Dawn tradition (see Dawn Cove Abbey).
Actualize, Achieve Your Human Potential and Empowerment
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| Follow-up and Support Counseling to Seminars & Workshops Dawn Cove Abbey Empowerment Outreach is a registered not-for-profit business in the province of Nova Scotia, Canada |
If you have questions, comments or suggestions, please email. I'll be happy to hear from you.
| The Dawn Cove Abbey Tradition: Helping People Rediscover Themselves Established in 1995, in commemoration of Abbey Dawn in Kingston, Ontario. |
People’s emotional, mental, and spiritual states are tied in closely with their physical being: which is why so
many illnesses and ailments are classified as “psychosomatic” – meaning that the body reflects the turmoil
going on inside a person.
As humans, we can choose to either be driven mostly by our feelings and emotions, or we can choose to take
charge (control) and guide those emotions and feelings with reason. The choice is ours: either way, there is no
escaping the fact that it is CHOICE.
There is one journey – but each person will take a different path: not because they are male, female, child
or senior – but because we are all unique, individual beings ("Rules For Being Human").
many illnesses and ailments are classified as “psychosomatic” – meaning that the body reflects the turmoil
going on inside a person.
As humans, we can choose to either be driven mostly by our feelings and emotions, or we can choose to take
charge (control) and guide those emotions and feelings with reason. The choice is ours: either way, there is no
escaping the fact that it is CHOICE.
There is one journey – but each person will take a different path: not because they are male, female, child
or senior – but because we are all unique, individual beings ("Rules For Being Human").
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| People who really want to heal, will find a way; those who don't, will find an excuse. |
If you found this page helpful and know someone else who could benefit from it, please tell them
NOTE: For Recovering/Healing from a dysfunctional family, coping with or overcoming a dysfunctional
(alcoholic) family/relationship, help is available here - Online, distance help/counselling works!
Related topics: Abuse & Violence, Children-Roles, Codependency & Male-Female Equality, Lifeskills or Building Trust
NOTE: For Recovering/Healing from a dysfunctional family, coping with or overcoming a dysfunctional
(alcoholic) family/relationship, help is available here - Online, distance help/counselling works!
Related topics: Abuse & Violence, Children-Roles, Codependency & Male-Female Equality, Lifeskills or Building Trust
Dawn Cove Abbey - many ways of helping people learn, recover and heal:
I sincerely hope that you take the Less Travelled Road and that it brings
awakening and healing to you.
- providing personal guidance for growth, healing and empowerment
through personal life coaching/counselling.
- extensive information and support pages on this website
- - the information is free and available to all - if you have found it to
be helpful and useful, please consider making a donation toward
maintaining this important service.
I sincerely hope that you take the Less Travelled Road and that it brings
awakening and healing to you.
| ~Explorations In Awareness~ -Demystifying & Detoxifying the Mind to combat Alienation and Dysfunction- Please visit and add your voice. |
| Recovery, Overcoming, Healing and bringing Closure are possible at any time. However, in most cases there are not always easy, simple solutions or 'quick-fixes'; - the journey will often be a difficult challenge with much inner work and time required. But if you are ready to make the change / transition to begin your healing journey, we can help. Please call, write or email without obligation (and strictly confidential) (for more information see Transform)- or click Contact-Us |