Role of Religio-Spirituality in the Workplace

This article reminds me of how some professors I first met at Andres University preceded all their lectures with short prayers. On each day we met, a student was volunteered to pray regardless of his/her spiritual background. I now understand how religio-spirituality was working in them. It is a good action to emulate and I will never forget it wherever I may be!

I think it is a big challenge to us as future student affairs professionals. We need to display an utmost religio-spirituality in all our endeavors no matter where we find ourselves. I know that we need not boast of our beliefs and condemn others, but we can in a more subtle manner share our experiences with others. Again, I agree with the author that religio-spirituality shapes the development of relationship-building characteristics and values. The problem is how to start. First of all, I believe we can side with Paula who says we can use spirituality as a frame of reference for our leadership style just as we use leadership handbook. Your leadership style tells outsiders who you are. In other words, a religio-spiritual administrator promotes unity and brings harmony at work places and everyone sees you as such.

Students are our target group. We need to bring them to the level that we want. It is true as we read in the article that students are unique beings made by God and have strengths and weaknesses. My favorite university professor once said, “Students are equally intelligent as faculty only that they did not come to university earlier”. He therefore suggested students should be handled with extra care and love for they stand the chance of becoming as intelligent as they were. Now, I understand the perspective within which he was admonishing. It is a clear manifestation of religio-spiritual commitment, which I think should be the hallmark of all administrative work.

Lastly, we need to bring our religio-spiritual development to bear by supporting students and colleagues in times of adversity. Even though it is extremely difficult sometimes in certain environment to discuss our beliefs, with determination and subtle approach, we can make an impact. It is equally important to be open minded, good listener, tolerant, and appreciate people the way they are and by so doing we can build a better educational system