From Aviation Safety to Spiritual Alignment: How SMS Became My Spiritual Foundation
My career in aviation has offered countless learning opportunities—ranging from cutting-edge technology and practical business negotiation skills to confronting tough issues like mental health. Aviation is truly a fascinating field. I mean, think about it: a massive piece of metal flies through the sky! That’s incredible.
But alongside the awe-inspiring aspects of aviation, there’s a sobering side. When accidents happen—whether we’re directly involved or not—we’re often impacted by tragic losses. Regardless of our specific roles, safety is always at the forefront of our minds. It’s our top priority, no matter the job title.
For over two decades, the word “safety” has been a constant in my job titles, and my career has grown in parallel with the evolution of aviation safety itself. During this time, the approach to aviation safety has transformed dramatically—from a reactive model to a more proactive, data-driven, and holistic system of continuous improvement.
This is known as the Safety Management System (SMS). It’s a framework that integrates safety into every aspect of an organization’s culture and operations. A strong safety culture, deeply woven into the workplace environment, is essential for the SMS to be effective.
Why Am I Talking About SMS?
Because I love SMS—not just for what it means in aviation, but for what it represents in a broader sense: a focus on systems, process, and continuous improvement. And that, to me, resonates deeply with spiritual life coaching.
I realized I could apply this same structured, evolving approach to our spiritual journeys.
And so, I developed what I call the Spiritual Management System (SMS)—also known as the Divine Heart SMS—a holistic framework for spiritual development and self-discovery.
The Four Pillars: Aviation vs. Divine Heart
In aviation, the SMS is built on four key components (often called the Four Pillars):
- Safety Policy
- Safety Risk Management
- Safety Assurance
- Safety Promotion
Similarly, the Divine Heart SMS is built on four spiritual components:
- Divine Heart Awareness
- Divine Heart Alignment
- Divine Heart Ascension
- Divine Heart Activation
With these checkpoints in place, I envision our growth as a slow, upward spiral—expanding into the Universe and the Divine Cosmos. From a “God’s Eye View,” it’s as if you are your own galaxy.
Breaking Down the Divine Heart SMS
Let’s briefly explore what each component means:
Awareness
We begin by assessing the current state of our hearts. Awareness allows us to recognize unconscious patterns and take that crucial first step forward. With clarity comes the ability to make informed and empowered decisions.
Alignment
Once we become aware, we align. This step is about connecting to Divine Consciousness and discovering how your dreams and desires can harmonize with the cosmic design. It’s where personal goals meet divine timing.
Ascension
Ascension is the rising—an intentional process of letting go of what no longer serves you. Think of it like learning to ride a bike: at first, you may need training wheels (support systems, habits, tools), but eventually, you shed them. You rise.
(Side note: Interestingly, my stepson didn’t need training wheels—but most of us do!)
Activation
This is the final step—ignition. You fuel your heart with divine love and light, and you set your plans into motion. It’s where spiritual insight becomes real-life action.
A Gift to Help You Get Started
I’ve created a set of reflective questions to guide you through each of the four steps. These prompts are designed to support your spiritual journey, wherever you are right now.
Consider it a gift—from my heart to yours.
