While there are many different religions and even more different ways to build spiritual resilience, there are several underlying elements to spiritual growth that seem to be important contributing factors in spiritual fitness. These three elements seem to be among the core components of spirituality. Though individual application of these elements may vary, every Marine will benefit from a personal exploration of how these elements function within his or her own life.
Personal Faith: Trusting in something or someone that has a greater purpose and meaning than the basic functions of day to day life. Faith may be placed in others, such as family, friends, unit, etc. It may be placed in an institution such as the nation or the Marine Corps. It may be placed in a religious community and/or Higher Power. Or it may be placed in one's own skills and abilities or one's personal inherent worth.
Foundational Values: Meaning and purpose in life determines what one will value most. As individuals identify what they think is the definition of a good life, they can then identify values that will guide the goals and directions of their lives. The Marine Corps places emphasis on the values of Honor, Courage and Commitment. In addition to those important values, Marines should identify other values to live by.
Moral Living: Once faith, meaning and values are identified, Marines should then seek to use them to guide their life decisions. Marines should use their faith, meaning and values much like a personal compass to help guide every step and every decision they make. Moral living is spirituality put to action.
For more detailed information on these elements, click on the links below or on the "Core Elements of Spiritual Fitness" menu.