How Spiritually Enlightened Are We?

Most of us like to believe we are spiritually aware. We meditate, we read about mindfulness, we try to practice kindness and patience—but just how enlightened are we, really? If we take an honest look at ourselves, we may find that we fall short in ways that might surprise us. And interestingly enough, if we compare ourselves to other beings—say, our beloved pets—we might realise that they are far ahead of us on the spiritual scale.

The Wisdom of Dogs: Are They More Enlightened Than We Are?

There’s a humorous yet eye-opening perspective that suggests dogs, in particular, might actually be more spiritually evolved than humans. Consider these questions:

• Can we live without caffeine?
• Can we remain cheerful even when we’re suffering from aches and pains?
• Can we resist complaining for an entire day?
• Can we understand when our loved ones are too busy to give us their time?
• Can we take criticism and blame without resentment?
• Can we ignore a friend’s limited education and never correct them?
• Can we stop judging people’s motives, choices, and opinions?
• Can we resist treating a rich friend better than a poor friend?
• Can we face the world without lies and deceit?
• Can we conquer tension without medical help?
• Can we relax without liquor or drugs?

If you answered ‘no’ to most of these, you’re in good company—because so did the rest of us! And yet, dogs do all of these things effortlessly. They don’t hold grudges. They don’t judge. They love unconditionally. They live entirely in the present.

The Limitations of Human Enlightenment

It raises an interesting question: Are we even capable of true enlightenment? Some spiritual teachings suggest that as humans, we are bound by our minds—overthinking, overcomplicating, and getting caught in cycles of ego and attachment. Unlike animals, we struggle to just be. We seek meaning, purpose, and validation, while a dog simply enjoys the moment.

Does this mean we should give up on trying to be enlightened? Not at all. But perhaps it means we should redefine what enlightenment really is.

How Enlightened Do We Need to Be?

The answer isn’t about achieving perfection—it’s about being as enlightened as humanly possible. If we can bring even a fraction of our true spiritual nature into our human experience, we’ve already achieved something incredible. And the good news? We don’t have to wait until we’re perfect. Every small step—every act of kindness, every moment of patience, every time we withhold judgment—brings us closer.

…enlightenment isn’t about transcending humanity—it’s about embracing it fully.

Steps Toward Greater Spiritual Alignment

If we truly want to evolve spiritually, perhaps the best thing we can do is focus on simple, everyday practices:

• Practice gratitude – Appreciate the good in your life, however small.
• Let go of judgment – Observe rather than label.
• Be present – Learn to enjoy the moment without always chasing the next thing.
• Love more – Without conditions, without expectations.
• Judge less – Because everyone is fighting battles we cannot see.
• Simplify your life – Less distraction, more connection.

Are You Spiritually Aligned?

Curious about where you stand on your spiritual journey? For a fun and light-hearted take on spiritual alignment, Take our ‘How Spiritually Aligned Are You?’ quiz and see how you measure up: Click here to take the quiz!

Acknowledgment

This post was partly inspired by a humorous perspective on spirituality found on Enlightened Spirituality. Their insights add a touch of wisdom and laughter to the journey of self-discovery.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, enlightenment isn’t about transcending humanity—it’s about embracing it fully. If we can be a little more present, a little more compassionate, and a little less reactive, then maybe—just maybe—we’re on the right path. And if we ever need a role model for unconditional love and presence, we don’t have to look far. Our four-legged friends have been showing us the way all along.