Anthony Siow, a spiritual director trained in the Ignatian tradition who runs SEE.K Ministry, believes in the need to listen to your heart, and letting that guide you in your life. He shares: “It doesn’t matter whether you’re a Christian or a Buddhist, or if you have no religion. But we all tap into something deeper.”
That’s what he’s hoping to facilitate with Higher Ground, a cafe ministry where participants can dive into, seek introspection with topics that “question life as we know.”.
Finding clarity in everyday spaces
Providing people with comfortable, non-threatening spaces is key in getting them to open up and share their thoughts on probing topics. Anthony notes that people don’t really like to share their thoughts on such subjects in a formal environment like a church.
If you’re talking about the warm and inclusive living-room style space like the one at Crane, then the vibe changes. “It’s easy, it’s relaxing, it’s casual. It’s like you’re just hanging out at a friend’s house,” says Anthony.
What happens during these conversations
At these events, a speaker introduces the designated topic to participants, and they will then proceed to have a chat. The speaker also guides participants in approaching the issues from different angles, probing their thoughts and mindsets for deeper insights.
Some previous topics include dreams and its interpretations, social media, and caregiving — things that are relevant to the participants’ lives, with a lot of room for discussion.
For instance, on the subject of social media, Anthony raises the following questions: “How does it influence our lives? Does it make us better people? Does it make us more reclusive? What is the impact of digital technology on our lives?”
Becoming more in tune with your soul
Through these conversations, Anthony hopes people will emerge feeling more introspective, and enlightened about what is happening in their lives. They may change their perspectives on some things, and perhaps even rediscover a sense of purpose and direction. “I’m hoping these questions will help to stir something and make them ask more questions, and make them explore.”
