Thanks Mali for the insight and the start of discussion.
I believe that spirituality is not the same as religion, although religion and spirituality may exist together. Everyone has a spiritual component, but not everyone has a religious component. Religion is generally recognized to be the practical expression of spirituality; the organization, rituals and practice of one’s beliefs.
Spirituality includes a system of beliefs that encompasses love, compassion, and respect for life. Individuals may experience both spirituality and religion very privately within themselves (internally), and/or through social interaction with persons and organizations in an external way. Spirituality is about our existence, relationships with ourselves, others and the universe. It is something we experience and requires abstract thinking and will. Spiritual development provides us with insight and understanding of ourselves and others. Robert Twycross, a palliative care specialist states "The spiritual component of a personality is the dimension or function that integrates all other aspects of personhood…and is often seen as a search for meaning in life." I think for me, that sums it up nicely.
Sunny