I was reading an article in the Huffington Post called, The Allure of Narcissistic Spirituality, written by Rabbi Alan Lurie, and he writes:
Spiritual narcissism creates the pretense of holiness as an ego strategy to mask insecurity, receive approval, or avoid struggle and growth. "I'm a spiritual person" it proclaims proudly. "I travel to alternate realities, see auras, heal chakras, predict the future, talk to spirits, commune with angels, manipulate energies, meditate for three hours a day, harness the powers of the Universe to attract success. ... The truth is that I'm more evolved than you!"Does this sound like you or anyone you know? Because it sure sounded like the exact description of a person I once called a friend. As I continued to the end of the article, the Rabbi had me thinking and questioning my own role in this ill-fated friendship.
The Rabbi continues:
Narcissistic sensitivity, however, is focused solely on the subtle nuances one's own internality, and resists looking at hard, uncomfortable truths that may upset the self image. One who is narcissistically sensitive is easily offended by the "coarseness" of others, seeks to make his environment change to align with the contours of his needs, and gets angry or offended when this does not happen.
As I began to reflect more, I realize that the dramatic emotions is actually the persons feelings that is being projected at me. This, I realize, is not my problem but hers. The article further mentions that "the desire to control others in order to create a "perfect" environment that nurtures our sensitivities is a calling card of spiritual narcissism." I just had my a-ha moment!
True spirituality takes place in the holy messiness of the world, in open-hearted relationship with others, and in a kind smile to one who accidentally stepped on your foot. In that moment of connection, one can clearly see that the annoyances and upsets are actually wake up calls pulling us out of our self-involvement and in to relationship...
...and into REALITY! So, back to the initial question: Do you know a spiritual narcissist? If yes, don't hate them, speak negatively of them, or chastise them. Forgive and move on. Why let their opinions affect you? "Kill `em with kindness."
as I continue my year (be it only 10 days in), I intend to speak my truth, act with kindness, react with love and humility, and continue my life adventures. I will no longer allow others' destructive opinions and jealous words affect me. Woohoo....as I do a mini jig-of-joy!
Forgive and forget. I will not allow that which is not great into my life. I put my foot down to the madness and allow only love into it.
So you think I'm sounding like a nut? So what! Your judgements will no longer phase me.
