At the beginning of this course, you completed an exercise in contemplative meditation in order to discover your core values. Now that you have completed this course, it is time for you to see where you stand now by repeating this exercise and comparing what you wrote at the beginning and how you feel now that you have reached the end of Part 1 of this course.
Two other questions have been added at the end for you to contemplate what you have learned and gained from this course.
Process:
Bring a pen and some paper with you to your favourite meditation place and prepare yourself for contemplative meditation.
Once you are grounded and ready, ask yourself the following questions and write down whatever answers come first to your mind:
What are my Strengths – What skills or talents do I have? What am I really good at doing? What do others say I am good at doing?
What are my Weaknesses – What would I like to improve about myself? What have others told me I need to improve about myself?
What are my personal Ethics – What values do I strongly hold? Why? (Look at your causes if you need help with this one: What causes do you strongly support? Environmentalism? Humanitarian work? What are your opinions of controversial subjects such as abortion, hunting animals for fur, or domestic violence? What issues burn deep within you? What do you demand justice for?)
What are my Values – What values do I hold? Why? (For help, think of the qualities you most admire in people, as well as the ones you despise. Those are the values that you hold dear or clash with – write these all down)
What is my Learning Style – How do I learn best? (If you are stuck, look at your favourite and least favourite teachers in your life. What common features can you find? These contribute to discovering your personal learning style)
What are my spiritual beliefs? – For this one, try not to think of any religious studies you have taken. Look more at the things you like or dislike about the religions you’ve been exposed to. What is desirable? What pushes you away? These basic things are your core beliefs.
What have I learned from this course?
What will I take from this course in my personal practice?
When you have finished your session, simply ground and center using your method of choice. Leave your written answers for a while and have something to eat or drink. Engage in an activity that has absolutely nothing to do with this exercise.
Later on, have a look at what you’ve written. Compare what you have written today with what you wrote at the beginning of the course. Some things may surprise you!
I hope you have enjoyed working through this part of the course as I have preparing it for you. Part 2 will be published on The Druid Network site as well.
Blessings on your continuing journey!
Taken by Athelia Nihtscada, July 2005.