ABSTRACT
A quick review of the literature reveals a variety of loosely related definitions of spirituality. Most definitions reflect the notion that spirituality has to do with the search for a meaningful life (Frankl 1959). It reflects “a search for the sacred,” “a process or journey by which one examines one’s life, its meaning and purpose and the overall effect one has on others and the environment, including the organization one inhabits” (Pargament and Mahoney 2002, 649). In this text, the author regards spirituality as a transformational process of personal development that occurs when one creates meaning in connection with others and dedicates oneself to a purpose beyond the self. Core elements found in definitions of spirituality include the transcendent; it is relational and involves a joining with life energy beyond us, commonly in the context of a community; dedication to a purpose beyond the self; and the fulfillment gained from living a meaningful life (Ashmos and Duchon 2000; McKnight 1984).
