I almost titled this Religion vs Spirituality.
Instantly I remembered my desire to be as extremely diligent about my words and
focus as possible. “vs” often denotes some sort of conflict. While not in
denial about conflict, I choose to consciously have in my experience what I
wish which is peace and absence of judgment (in the sense of deeming things good
or bad).
I was extremely blessed and delighted to spend the
Easter/Springtime holidays with family that had not been all together in years.
We laughed. We loved. We helped. We surprised. We enjoyed re-connecting with each
other. We brought in more family members, who were not able to make it in
person, thanks to the wonders of technology. I shared some of my adventures,
hopes and dreams as did others.
An interesting situation presented that was the
impetus of writing this particular blog post. We were all sitting down getting
ready to enjoy dinner together. I, among others, was joking a bit about silver,
gold and frankincense with an obvious reference to Jesus. Now I must clarify
that this was humor and fun with Jesus…in no way mocking him. One family member
got extremely defensive and upset about the conversation. To keep the peace,
the rest of us just changed the topic.
Due to many experiences, past and present, I have
some extremely interesting relationships with Jesus…..but that is a topic for
another day. Suffice it to say, I have an understanding about Jesus that is
about love and joy. He wasn’t all seriousness and control. He would have
definitely wanted people to participate in fun and happiness as we were having
in our conversation. Here is where the
part about religion comes up. All
religions have seeds of truth in them. However, some people only know the
information that their form of religion has programmed into them. They can’t fathom anything beyond that
information. If Jesus walked up to these individuals today (sans the garments
of a time and place long ago), they would probably not even recognize him.
He wouldn’t fit into the box of perception they were taught.
The purpose of this observation is not to judge or
condemn. All choices are definitely honored “above” and by myself as well. So of
course people are entitled to believe and live as they desire. I personally choose
to be spiritual instead of aligning with a man-made structure called religion.
I chuckled reading a saying recently, “Religion is for people who fear
Hell. Spirituality is for people who
have already been there and back”. That is definitely true for me. If you are
still reading this so far, you are person who thinks, at least some of the time,
outside the “box” that you were programmed into. So, whether you subscribe to a
particular religion or not, I propose to you a friendly challenge. When other
humans tell you that things are right or wrong, please run it all through the
filter of your heart and spirit. The Divine communicates to you directly that
way. If you consciously do this and make choices that are more in alignment
with your own Higher Truth, perhaps you will be happily surprised. Human ego
can be a little tricky but, with a little practice, you will begin to be able
to differentiate Spirit coming through you.
How can you tell?….it is the voice that brings most peace.
If you'd like guidance in a more human manner, check out my Telephone Wellness Coaching to see if it is appropriate for you. Many thanks to all who have chosen to join me on this journey!