Questions are submitted by participants during spiritual practice classes 
with Rev. O’Brian.  

Can the spiritual charge given at the time of initiation fade with time, and if so, 
is there a way to recharge it? 
At the time of spiritual initiation, a person usually brings a heightened recep-

tivity to the presence of divine grace, a sense of commitment and dedication to 

the spiritual path and faith in the process itself. What we experience during the 

occasion of spiritual initiation is supported by all of those factors along with the 

blessing of the teacher and the tradition itself. 

While any experience will fade into memory, any true insight that is revealed 

will always remain with us. Truth is eternal and when it is revealed to us, it trans-

forms our consciousness. It changes us. While the vibrancy of a new experience 

may fade, truth endures. 

A useful way for us to “recharge” our own energy is to cultivate the attitudes 

and behaviors that support our continual receptivity to divine grace and the 

supportive influences of nature. 

How does one uphold their commitment to daily meditation practice during 
times of illness? 
During times of illness or physical challenge there may not be sufficient energy 

to be able to focus attention. This is natural while the body is undergoing change 

in order to heal and restore balance. It is fairly easy to discern whether or not 

we have sufficient strength and focus to be able to concentrate and direct our 

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Enlightenment Journal | Fall 2011

On the Path: Questions & Answers