By Anita Kopacz
Photo by Marc Mann

An example.  Role Model.  Idol. Leader.  Each of these roles defines a person of extraordinary measure and accomplishment.  But what separates them from us?  On the divine level, nothing.  We are all children of the Most High.  Physically, on the other hand, many of these people have beliefs and practices that enable them to keep in touch with their genius.

Each month, I will interview a person who is living their dream, a person who frequently experiences joy and lives life in abundance.  The questions will be geared toward his or her spiritual life and practices.

This week, we are fortunate enough to have Russell Simmons as our Leader of the Month. Russell Simmons is an entrepreneur, a philanthropist, a yogi and a lover of life.  Most of us know him as a successful businessman, but what is happening in his spiritual life?

Anita Kopacz: When did you have your spiritual awakening?

Russell Simmons: It was a gradual process of opening my eyes.  As I grew in awareness, I had more faith in the desires of my heart.  I listened to my spirit and followed my intuitive guidance.  Fifteen years ago, I attended a yoga class that changed my life.  I was at peace; the class put me as ease—an ease I had never experienced.  This was my awakening.

A.K.: Do you have any spiritual practices that you maintain?

R.S.: Yes. I meditate every morning and do yoga every afternoon.  With respect to diet, I maintain a vegan lifestyle.  I am also aware of the choices I make.  A good man makes good choices.  I try to reside in that awareness as often as possible.

A.K.: Do you have any advice to others who are trying to find their spiritual path?

R.S.: You are already on it!  You just have to summon enough courage and discipline to take the first step.  Find a spiritual routine that works for you, that reminds and reaffirms you of all the truths you know in your heart.  Once you have found clarity, focus your energy and work hard for what you want.  We are all good at something—we all have our own genius.

I would like to thank Russell Simmons for his words of wisdom.  Many will benefit from his sharing.  I appreciate how Russell acknowledges the idea that we are all on our spiritual path.  What a beautiful awareness.

In honor of maintaining spiritual practices, click here to review our goals for November.

Welcome to Uplift at UPTOWN.  If you are just joining us this week, my name is Anita Kopacz.  I am an author and spiritual adviser with a passion to see people thrive!  Collective energy possesses a divine power that can remove stubborn obstacles and open locked doors.  My intention is to join our UPTOWN family in spirit and forge our return to healthy living.  With the Well-Life Maintenance program, together we will take small steps in four areas of our lives to improve our quality of living.  The four areas include Spiritual, Mental, Emotional, and Physical.  You can find more in my new book, Finding Your Way: Alphabetical Keys to the Divine.