There is so much discussion about religion, how it has affected history and what it means in our personal lives. As with everything else it is complicated, not simply good or bad.
I see religion divided into three parts. Firstly is the sense of community, praying together and following similar traditions that enliven our senses to make memories like the smell of freshly baked bread or a particular scent of candles. It can feel soothing to observe rituals in a group. Singing among others magnifies the vibration and the familiarity of sharing family traditions feels like home wherever you go, all adding texture and dimension to life.
Secondly are dogmatic laws. They are man-made and usually fear-based. They describe a God whom I don’t recognize and a universe where guilt and punishment are lurking around every bend. These laws were created to influence behavior to be acceptable to the group intensifying the concept of belonging or being an outsider, us versus them. Some people feel that these laws speak to them and establish a code of ethics that serves to enhance our attitudes toward each other.
Thirdly is spirituality. I don’t think that you need religion to be spiritual. It can be a part of religion but is not the sole province of it. Spirituality is our connection to our true selves and to a higher power. For me it is a powerfully strong and serene energy that has become home, the place I go when I want to feel connected and centered, loved and vital. Sometimes I feel that the more spiritual I get the less religious I am. I hope that it is clear that I am not condoning or criticizing religion or anyone’s beliefs. Just bringing up some things to think about.
