September 16, 2009, "Rome Reports Video News"

Pope Benedict XVI recommends that people seek council from a spiritual guide, especially young people.

During the general audience dedicated to Saint Symeon, the pope said that in order to follow God, people need another person to help in getting to know oneself and who can help foster a deeper relationship with God.

Benedict XVI explains, "Symeon teaches us that Christian life is an intimate and personal communion with God."

The pope affirmed that even though its okay to worry about physical, intellectual and human growth, its just as important to address internal growth. This internal development, that cannot be obtained through books alone, is what allows people to know God.

This understanding also allows people to open up to God. Only by living this love can people be sensitive to the needs of others.

Follow this link to read more about what spiritual direction is, and is not!