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| SILOAM
helps men, women and children of all
races, creeds, and orientations infected and
affected by HIV/AIDS maximize their wellness
and sense of being fully alive by offering a
continuum of support services that leads to
deeper connections to their own self, other
people, the natural world, and a power
greater than themselves (however one
understands this). |
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Spirituality for Wellness in the HIV/AIDS Community
SILOAM uses the words “spirituality” and “wellness” in very practical terms.
By spirituality we mean the connectedness that a person feels to him/herself, to other people, to a power greater than self (however one understands this) and to the natural world. Wellness is the gauge by which we measure the level of connectedness and overall physiological and mental functioning.
A person who is connected to him/herself has a good sense of his/her history, understands why s/he is who s/he is, and understands that accepting oneself is more important than gaining the acceptance and approval of others.
The person who is connected to others is able to find satisfaction in human interactions and bonds, and feels that s/he belongs to a community in which people are known and cared for.
Being connected to a power greater than self and to the natural world means understanding and coming to accept the life cycle in which all living things come into being, grow and eventually pass on.
While people who practice their religious beliefs are pursuing their spiritual well being, spirituality is not synonymous with religion. Religion entails an organized body of thought, beliefs and practices. For
SILOAM, spirituality cuts across all belief systems and speaks to our common humanity irrespective of one’s cultural or religious background, or whether one believes in a higher power.
SILOAM's Core Values
Love and Spirituality
Safety
Confidentiality
Trust
Acceptance
Belonging
Freedom
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