The Role of Trauma in Spiritual Development

Abstract

Trauma acts to increase spiritual development if that development is defined as an increase in the search for purpose and meaning. That search may or may not also produce an improvement in psychological functioning. The process of trauma-produced spiritual development may be best conceptualized in terms of alchemy. Social reality in general demands observable change to validate the inner discoveries. Drinking wine with you, getting warmer and warmer, I think why not trade in this overcoat made of leaves and dirt. Then I look out the window. For what? Both worlds are here. -Rumi Open Secret*