The importance of community

Hi there, I just wanted to know people's thoughts on whether having a community, or sangha as they say in Buddhism, to gain the full benefits of meditation?
I no longer consider myself a Buddhist but one thing that my teachers always stressed was having a sangha, and that often meditation can be counter-productive if you don't have a teacher.
In my own view, while having a spiritual community around me can be of great benefit, I see meditation as a very solitary thing, and while being by myself I'm not as self concious and enjoy my meditations more.
Saying that I do feel like I'm in limbo sometimes, as I stick to no strict spiritual practice. My meditations are generally Buddhist in nature though my spiritual literature contains more teachings from new age teachers, as well as reading old Hindu and Taoist texts. One thing my Zen teacher warned me against was 'spiritual surfing' and that I may become more confused if I don't stick to one practice. In one way I am confused yet I need to find my own way, no matter how long that takes.

[Silver]

It might be something worth trying (Have you tried sangha before?) because you might find a surprising benefit from it ~ not that I'd know...just a suggestion. Try it once just to see how it goes for you.

I've tried it many times Silvergirl

Greg -
Many of the people who are part of our spiritual community come from a Buddhist background. Even though we include a meditation in every service, it is usually a reading from a spiritual text. However, I agree with you, that your own solitary meditation is probably more profound than it would be in a group setting.

I believe that it is very important to be part of a spiritual community, especially one which is open to all spiritual paths. There is something to be said about being with people who hold similar beliefs to you -- you can experience a very strong connection with them. Also, you can learn more about Truth by taking classes (if they are offered) and continuing to develop your own spiritual growth.

And finally, when life gets very challenging, which is often does, you will have a community of people who will be there to support you spiritually and emotionally.

Blessings -

Rev Della

What is your spiritual community Rev?