Physiologically, and adaptation occurs when a stimulus is applied that is greater than that to which the body system is accustomed—greater but not too great. This is the “overload principle”. If, however, the stimulus is too great, the body system cannot adapt to the stress. This is referred to “overtraining” in exercise physiology.
Hans Seyle pioneered our understanding of stress and developed what is known as the “general adaptation syndrome” (i.e., the idea that our response to stress involves three phases: alarm, resistance, exhaustion/recovery). Stressor can be positive or negative, as well as real or imaginary, and we all respond differently—both physiologically and psychologically.
I am not prepared to provide a physiology lesson here. My objective is not to discuss physiological stress/stressors. Rather, I intend to address the Spiritual response to imposed stress—and there has been a lot of it lately in our society.
Now, first, let me remind the reader that the Spiritual dimension of wellness (of “well-centered fitness”) is the belief in something greater than oneself. Spiritual wellness is bigger than religion, but it also does not require that one have a specific religious faith or a religious faith at all. Spiritual wellness, personally, is what makes us human. Thus, no one can make the excuse: “He’s talking religion. I am outta here.” Indeed, I know a few “non-believers” who might get what I have to say better than some of my “believer” friends.
Spiritually, like physiologically, we respond to stress. We have a Physical heart, and we have a Spiritual “heart”. One is more tangible than the other, but nonetheless—I propose—they respond the same.
Spiritually, when we are exposed to new ideas or beliefs that are contrary to our current worldview, we respond—often with very Physical (physiological) responses. It is called “growth”—sometimes, maturity. But, like our physiological systems (e.g., skeletal muscle), growth takes time and the proper stimulus. Too much or too soon, the natural response is to resist. Unfortunately, too often, those who might “share” their ideas do so too forcefully.
Now there may be cause, in certain situations to “slam” a body system. (Talk to a serious bodybuilder about “leg day”.) On occasion, this can be of benefit—if the appropriate recovery period is allowed. That is, there needs to be time for adaptation to occur. In exercise physiology, this is termed “overreaching”. Such training is always followed with an extended period of recovery. Otherwise, what is intended for good becomes something destructive.
Spiritual growth and change requires a stimulus—a positive stressor. The stressor must be appropriate to stimulate change, and time must be allowed for recovery (healing?).
Society is at a serious juncture. There is considerable opportunity for growth in so many ways. Many have opted for the violent approach without restraint. The “heart” does not respond well to this approach. Hatred produces only more hatred. This is not to say the alternative is passivity. Indeed, not. There is cause for “overload”. The voice of right must be strong and forceful, but it must be tolerable.
Change comes when the affected “feel the burn” and are able to recover. “No pain, no gain”, right? But, the wrong pain signals injury to one physically. Spiritually, we are not near the point of being “well-centered”. That is, we are not to the point of full release of self for the welfare of all. Thus, change—the stressor applied to the growing self—requires time for adaptation to occur. It is true that for some we could say “How much time does this idiot need?”, but, for those of us so enlightened, we need to understand that change is not so simple as we would think. Just as we see physiologically, there are high responders and low responders. Some, then, might never change. Most, will change for the better. They just might need a better approach.
If you consider yourself a leader for change, and you are not seeing the results you seek, consider your methods. Consider the intensity to which you are directing your stimulus for change. And, certainly, consider the change which you are attempting to force. Is it your will or the greater will?
Martin Luther King, Jr. comes to mind as I consider the violent rhetoric that as erupted on both ends of the political and social spectrum (with no particular cause of ideology in mind here). I searched for an ideal quote of his and found that there are far too many from which to choose. I find particular relevance to his statement: “Violence as a way of achieving racial justice is both impractical and immoral. I am not unmindful of the fact that violence often brings about momentary results. Nations have frequently won their independence in battle. But in spite of temporary victories, violence never brings permanent peace.”
Carpe momento!
“Every man must decide whether he will walk in the light of creative altruism or in the darkness of destructive selfishness.” .”—Martin Luther King, Jr.
“Love is the only force capable of transforming an enemy into a friend.”—Martin Luther King, Jr.
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