Instructions: Choose one person to be the reader for the group, while the rest of the group stands up. The reader should indicate for the group that one side of the room is for yes, the other side for no, and the space in between is for the continuum of believing somewhat or being unsure, or if you wish to pass. The reader will then read one of the statements below, and the group members will move to the part of the room that indicates their level of agreement with or belief in the statement. The reader may ask one or two people to explain why they’ve chosen to stand in a certain place; allow discussion among the group members, reminding them if necessary that the purpose is to discover the range of personal beliefs rather than to argue or debate them. However, it is okay for people to move to a different position if they find that the discussion changes their minds about a topic. Continue with additional statements.
Belief Statements
- People understand the sacred best when they are outside in nature.
- God helps those who help themselves.
- Self-discipline is necessary for living a spiritual life.
- A person can be spiritual without being religious.
- Being spiritual helps you be healthier.
- We are spiritual beings when we are born.
- No one can know for sure what will happen when we die; it’s a mystery.
- If you are a truly spiritual person, you are concerned about the environment, endangered species, and taking care of the earth.
- It is more difficult for people in poverty to be spiritual.
- There are many gods and goddesses to whom people can pray for help.
- A person can’t be really spiritual unless they’ve gone through hard times.
- The most important thing in life is to serve others.
- People don’t live just one life, they live many lives.
- Strong religious beliefs have been the cause of many conflicts, even wars, in the world.
- You can be an ethical, caring person even if you’re not spiritual.
At the end of the activity, ask how it felt to physically stand up and share some of your views on these statements. Ask: did any of you change your beliefs in the course of the discussions? Do you feel more clarity about your own beliefs after participating in this activity?
