How can law can be practiced spiritually or holistically? As in any holistic practice it is all in the approach. I practice law spiritually or holistically because that’s who I am.
As the Zen proverb goes “before enlightenment chop wood carry water, after enlightenment chop wood carry water.” I still practice law but everything has changed because my attitude and viewpoint have changed. Practicing law spiritually involves doing so peacefully, lovingly and joyfully. It can be described as ‘practicing from the heart’.
From a holistic perspective, everyone (and that includes each client) is a ‘whole’ person, body, mind and spirit connected and crucial to the wholeness of life itself and engaged in the infinite eternal dance of creative intelligence that is Spirit. There is nothing outside of Spirit. There is nothing to fix, nothing to change simply the truth to recognize. Knowing who we are and what we do as ‘holy’ inspires a reverent attitude.
Being Right? Or Happy?
Conflict stems from the illusion that we are separate from each other and from God. Disputes are the external manifestation of inner conflict. When we acknowledge our oneness and emphasize our common interest, conflict dissolves, for it is in truth like fighting yourself.
I see the legal process as an opportunity for healing and growth rather than an adversarial game about winning at all costs and the destruction of others. I give unconditional love to everyone I am in contact with, knowing and respecting them as unique and divine. I come from and encourage the sense of unity and compassion that is love and let go of fear based suspicion, anger and resentment.
When there is confusion about what to do I simply ask the question “what is the loving thing to do?” There is that within us which knows. As Morrie says in Tuesday’s with Morrie “Love Always Wins.” Joy is the natural result of being loving and peaceful. I know that life was meant to be joyful. Do we want to be right or be happy? The choice is always ours.
Deep Level Listening
My practice requires listening to a client at a deep level to hear what the real issue is. It means following my own inner guide. Often it involves creating space for a client so that a position can be released and the truth can reveal itself.
There is no need to make choices for a client when they are made aware of their own power. I may remind a client of what is really important or re-frame an issue so the gift or opportunity in the situation becomes available.
I might raise concepts, too often foreign to law, like forgiveness, compassion or gratitude. I share the knowledge of higher laws eternally at work in life: as we give so we receive; that it is done unto us as we believe; that we create our own experience; and that everything unfolds perfectly. This is truly empowering.
A Process of Discovery
I also share myself and my life experiences, our shared humanness, with everyone, for we all experience life’s pain and glory. This encourages others to do the same. I am grateful for the learning and growth opportunities each client brings to me. We become partners in the wonderful journey of self-discovery.
I see myself as a ‘minister’ — meaning ‘servant’ who serves the real needs of a client by practicing loving kindness and paying careful attention. To practice law holistically one must practice life holistically. My life and work are inseparable. Practicing law spiritually is an ongoing prayer, an exercise of Faith.
I have been Blessed with a Sacred Calling to bring the Light and Love of Spirit to the practice of law. I feel constantly humble and grateful for this honor.
Namaste
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