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Though specific details of religious and spiritual beliefs fluctuate greatly, similar major
principles and values are present across the board. Principles of well-being, gratitude,
mindfulness, love, cooperation, acceptance, understanding, mystic union, hope, and prayer are
central to most religious and spiritual beliefs (Gottlieb). Considering this, religious virtues can be
practiced spiritually without the acceptance of formal doctrines and are illustrated, internally and
externally, through positive communication. Positive psychology and communication address
well-being and satisfaction pertaining to the past; flow, joy, sensual pleasures, and happiness of
the present; and optimism, hope, and faith as constructive cognitions of the future (Snyder &
Lopez). Those who truly embrace positive psychology and communication, create meaning in
their lives that corresponds with religious and spiritual structure, and fulfills the same innate void
in ones life.
Well-Being
The main goal of any sort of belief system is ultimately to promote individual well-being. In
some ways, faith can be understood as a method of protection used to shield ourselves from
harsh realities and confusing aspects of the world. We use these ideas to shape our ideal selves
and the ideal world, and participate in behaviors that are hoped to eventually manifest these
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Mystic Union
Belief in some sort of higher power helps people to put into perspective their place in reality.
Value of mystic union is a grounding source in life (Lynch). Most religious and spiritual
believers enjoy the idea that there is a benevolent, invisible entity ultimately controlling the fate
of mankind. Religious followers often claim that their relationship with God provides faith, hope,
trust, and strength (Baesler, Derlega, & Lolley). HIV patients discussed by Baesler, Derlega, &
Lolley mention that they found emotional comfort in belief that there was a higher power that
cared for them (261). Traditional religions often conceptualize this divine entity as a human-like
figure that is constantly aware and in control of all the happenings on Earth. This is the place that
many unload the unwanted responsibility of their fate and attribute the greater meaning of their
misunderstandings of the world around them.
Positive spirituality differs greatly in the area of belief. Instead of assuming characteristics of a
specific God, positive spirituality understands the higher power to be the abstract collection of
energy that we are all a part of. Instead of perceiving an identifiable deity, adopts the idea from
quantum physics that the cosmos as a field of energy and god is no separate entity (Rubin).
Positive spirituality assumes that life is guided by an over-arching field of energy that we are
intertwined with. The true power and meaning behind this force is inconceivable with mere
human intelligence, but it is felt within ones being. Our relationship with this force is determined
by the types of positive or negative energy we elicit in the world. Thus, by using positive
psychology and positive communication to guide our behaviors, we foster a mutually beneficial
relationship with this power and also take autonomy in our own fate. We can be reassured that
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