Spirituality

I know I've written a fair amount on the concept of religion in general as well as on various world religions, but I've failed to cover the topic of spirituality. I think religion and spirituality are different for a couple of reasons. First; religion normally requires organized congregation and group participation while spirituality is more of an individual practice. Secondly is that most, if not all religions require the believe in one form of God or another, while spirituality is the process of making yourself more aware and in touch with who you are and where your place is in the greater scheme of the universe. I'm not a very religious person, but on some level I would consider myself to be spiritual. I know that's such an annoying and pretentious thing to say, but it's the truth. I know people will roll their eyes at that saying, but there's not really another way for me to put it. Spirituality is the practice of mindful awareness. It is us taking inventory of our lives, of everything that we are and what our place/purpose in this world is. I think everyone could benefit from practicing spirituality. I know for a fact that it has given me a good deal of perspective as well as peace of mind, and that's something that so many people are lacking these days. You don't even have to be pretentious or boastful about it, because in my opinion, it is a private and personal activity that nobody else necessarily needs to be aware of. Obviously there are many people who are full of themselves about it, but you shouldn't let those individuals repel you from allowing yourself to experience spiritual growth.