Spirit and Spirituality

An important ingredient in the work of IMESO is to clarify the nature and definition of “spirit’ or “spirituality.”

Spirit can be defined at “that aspect or essence of a person that gives him or her power and energy, and motivates the pursuit of virtues such as love, truth, and wisdom.” (Denise D. McKee and John N. Chappel, Spirituality and Medical Practice). The fundamental mark of an organization that has a spirit or spiritual foundation is the presence of altruism or a transcendent attitude as over against self-absorption. 

Spirituality at IMESO (although there are numerous definitions) is defined as “the conscious striving to integrate life in terms not of isolation or self-absorption, but of self-transcendence toward an ultimate value one perceives.” (Sandra Schneider). This movement from selfishness to altruism, expressed in prosocial behaviors such as kindness and empathy, is operationalized by the inclusion and practice of values and virtues in everything that is done in the System.