Non-preaching

(aka Don’t preach, I know what you’re thinkin’, and I don’t need no reason…)

Sixth House Ministry of Service is a non-preaching humanitarian ministry.

When I tell people I run a ministry, they immediately think I’m some priestly figure who goes around preaching the word and judging others for their sinful and immoral ways.

That’s not true.

I’m definitely a spiritual person; I pray, I meditate, I love going to spiritual places, and my greatest joy comes from serving others.

These practices have improved my life tremendously, and I’m grateful for having them as a means of personal growth. With these practices, I grow closer towards understanding my life’s purpose.

But my spirituality is my own, and I keep it to myself. I don’t tell people how they’re supposed to live. Sometimes, I’m not even sure how I’m supposed to live.

As difficult as it is, we can’t judge others’ lives or tell them what to do, because everyone has their own path to follow. That’s like judging every man on Earth by how many NBA championships they’ve won, then telling them they should be practicing layups in order to live a better life. It might work for a select few, but for the rest of us, it’s bad advice.

I like buying stuff, I like wearing nice clothes, I like saying bad words, I like exploring my sensuality, and sometimes, I say really inappropriate things because it’s funny as hell to do. I enjoy material things in this material existence.

Does that mean I’m a bad or immoral person?

The purpose of this ministry is to help those who are suffering, through compassionate listening and companionship. I sit with people and listen to them explain their conditions, asking questions and helping them take the time to reflect on their circumstances.

On a metaphysical level, I’m actually lending them my excess Mercurial energy, which they use to examine their problems in a safe and non-judgmental space.

And if I can provide something tangible to help comfort them (food, clothing, or even just a hug), I do it.

So if you’re going through a difficult time and need someone to talk to, I’m happy to listen and help you work through it. Just don’t expect me to tell you what to do next. That’s not my role.

-NRSD, Sixth House Ministry of Service