What Does Spiritual Independence Mean?

Spiritual independence should not be confused with being alone. Here is a clip from an interview where I explain what I mean by Spiritual Independence and the reaction I have seen when I've used it in the past.

I remember the backlash I received when I first introduced the concept of "spiritual independence". People preferred that I had said "interdependence". But in my mind they are mutually exclusive. I can be independent while interdependent with another. I use the relationship Lisa and I have as an example. We've been married 34 years. We have a pretty healthy relationship. It's taken tons of work though. It's not easy, but the rewards make it worth it. What we've had to learn is how to be independent adults who choose to love each other. I have to be healthy as an individual. Lisa has to be healthy as an individual. When these two healthy individuals relate, then, it is functional rather than dysfunctional. We can be interdependent rather than codependent. This is why I talk a lot about spiritual independence. I believe it is our right, our responsibility and our reward to be spiritually independent. Of course, those in authority are very uncomfortable with this because it suggests the relinquishing of control. But I feel it is absolutely necessary if we want to grow spiritually, even humanly.

The Lasting Supper was launched for this reason and this is its purpose: to help people become and remain spiritually independent. I warmly invite you to join us. You will love it. And, more importantly, you will grow from it.

Here's Our Manifesto

1. I am free. I always have been. I always will be.
2. I have the right to ask questions as a way to become wise.
3. It is my right and responsibility to find and walk my own spiritual path.
4. It is my duty to myself and others to remove the log from my own eye first.
5. I take care of myself before I care about labels or what others call me.
6. It is necessary for me to be true to myself before being true to a group.
7. I recognize my roots but I will not allow them to prevent me from changing.
8. I embrace my unique spirituality and will let my light shine for others.
9. I take charge of my life and will live it wisely, compassionately and joyfully.
10. I am spiritually independent!