What is spiritual direction? I’m asked this quite often, and each time I must admit I have to stop for a few seconds and think, “How do you explain such a mysterious encounter?” For me, it’s about providing a sacred container for your soul stories. It’s about companioning you as you unpack any spiritual baggage you might have been lugging around for too long, so you can make room for what is coming forth. It’s about honoring you as an individual and as a fellow pilgrim. And it’s about trying out some new spiritual practices to enhance your walk with God or the Divine or whatever word you use for the Other. I am a Christian-based spiritual director, although I am not bound by denomination or specific theology. My spirituality, and my approach to spiritual direction, have been developed–and continue to be formed–through a variety of sources and influences. This includes being raised in a small Methodist church in Mississippi; identifying as an Episcopalian for twenty years; teaching at a Quaker seminary; embracing the relationship between creativity and spirituality; earning a graduate degree in theological studies; sitting in silence; spending time in nature; reading Henri Nouwen and Mary Oliver and the Bible; and writing my heart out. For starters.
According to Spiritual Directors International, of which I am a member: “Spiritual direction is not actually about being directed. Rather, it is about being encouraged to draw closer to your true self. You are free in spiritual direction to speak about spirituality using language that is significant to you. . . . All people are welcome to participate in this contemplative companionship with their spiritual tradition intact—or even if they have no tradition.”
Please let me know if you’d like to explore spiritual direction with me. I’m happy to answer any questions you might have. You can reach out through the contact page and I’ll get back to you as soon as I can.
In peace,
Amy-Lyles Wilson
Amy Lyles Wilson | Creative Soul Tender 