Soul Matters
June Theme
Play

Spiritual Practices – Play
The Basic Practice
Play is the exuberant expression of our being. It is at the heart of our creativity, our sexuality, and our most carefree moments of devotion. It helps us live with absurdity, paradox, and mystery. It feeds our joy and wonder. It keeps our search for meaning down to earth.

Practice play by doing things on the spur of the moment. Take time out to experiment, to try on different parts, to relax. Laugh heartily at jokes, situations, and yourself. Remember, laughter heals body, mind, and soul, and by extension, communities.

Daily Cue, Reminder, Vow, Blessing

• Hearing someone laugh is my cue to practice play.
• A swing set reminds me that all ground is playground.
• Whenever I participate in a game, I vow to make my play more cooperative and less competitive.
• Blessed is the Giver of Life who has provided play as a way to celebrate the lightness of our being.

  —   Frederic and Mary Ann Brussat
www.spiritualityandpractice.com/practices/alphabet/view/26/play

Frederic Brussat is a United Church of Christ clergyman with a journalism ministry, and Mary Ann Brussat is an interfaith minister, ordained by the One Spirit Interfaith Seminary. Frederic and Mary Ann have been covering contemporary culture and the spiritual renaissance for five decades as writers and reviewers. In 2006, they consolidated all their work on SpiritualityandPractice.com, a multifaith website providing resources for spiritual journeys.