Religion and Spirituality

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!