What are the attributes and indicators of being spiritual? What defines the fine line between religious fervor and zealous yet calming spirituality? I see people every day who are in touch with their spiritual sides but they do not necesarilly belong to any religious sects or group; some people I know are Wiccan and modern (and self-proclaimed) witches and warlocks who respect and revere the meta-physical world without being confined and restrained by the boundaries of church and religion. I also see people who belong to many, different ministries and religious groups but are so blind of the spiritual world and their own astral beings, taking what they cannot see and understand for granted.The discrepancies and the inherent similarities (and also the assumptions and misconceptions) between spirituality and religious fanaticism had me thinking of what really leads people closer in the universal and primal quest for happiness.

Research papers, custom essays and independent studies show that people who are happy and contented with their lives are less prone to depression brought by stress and other factors that are seemingly beyond the physical control of us humans. And depression is the number one catalyst for serious illnesses and other detrimental diseases like heart problems, aneurysm, severe ulcers and even cancer because our immune system suffers as stress and depression attacks. Being one with the spiritual world and appreciating the intangible wonders of the world surprisingly brings a serene calmness that soothes the nerves and revitalizes the body into spiritual tranquility. But being confined and restricted by rules and guidelines of religious institutions can restrain their constituents from reaching and getting in touch with their spirituality by exploring new horizons and immersing themselves to different beliefs, traditions and lifestyles. I, for one, do not confine myself  to a fixed set of religious beliefs. In my quest for elusive happiness and contentment, I dwell in exotic places and meet new people and I try to imbibe their ancient traditions and lifestyles which makes me more in touch with the spiritual world.

And so when I am not studying for exams, contributing to an essay writing service and helping in clean-up drives around our small town, I travel with my friends and family to spiritual retreats and pilgrimages around the world. We immerse ourselves in the varying, rich cultures and traditions of the world and we make new friends who are more happy with having less than the rich people who are miserable despite having all the material excesses in the world. I also join spiritual networking groups in order to re-align my perspective about the really essential things in life. So in search of happiness, drop all your material burdens and reach deep within your soul and see the world with clear eyes that are shut but not blind.