Day 19
Today’s Takeaway: I’ve always been more spiritual than religious.
I was raised in a very traditional Irish catholic family. My mom was deeply faithful and she insisted upon CCD, making all the sacraments, and going to church as often as we could on Sundays.
She had a very positive relationship with the church and she was hopeful that her kids would follow in her footsteps. However, she was brought up in a tight-knit, more liberal parish than my sister & I experienced. My interactions with Catholicism have never been positive. Sometimes I wish that were different. I have a lot of guilt and fear around not believing. What if I’m wrong? Am I doomed to spend eternity in limbo, or worse? That’s terrifying!
And that’s where my problem lies with most religion, not just Christianity. Most religions say: “Believe all these things wholeheartedly, without exception or question, or you’re a bad person. Oh, and while you’re at, don’t believe in anything other than this.”
Please don’t misinterpret this. This is only an opinion, not a judgment. I’m not saying anyone is wrong for believing in their faith or claiming that I’m somehow better because I don’t. I have a deep respect for all religions and anyone practicing them. There is such beauty in being able to believe in something unconditionally. Honestly, I wish I could. I’m actually jealous.
I’ve always picked/chose what I believe in. In that way I think I’m more of an Omnist. I don’t claim one religion, practice or belief, but find truth in pieces of all of them. It’s definitely more of a spiritual relationship than a religious one. For instance:
Judaism: I love the concepts of community in the Jewish faith. They believe strongly in the power of unifying people in a common purpose.
Christianity: Universal forgiveness. If someone authentically apologizes, forgive them. Holding on to anger is toxic.
Hinduism/Buddhism: The existence of karma & destiny. We are all here for a purpose & your actions determine that path.
Paganism/Wicca: Lead with positive energy. Honor & respect this beautiful planet we are being allowed to exist on.
Agnostic: I don’t believe, nor disbelieve, in the existence of a god. I just don’t believe that can be truly known.
All religions: The Golden Rule ~ “Do unto others as you would have done unto you.” In my opinion, it’s the single most important teaching across all religions.
I also believe in reincarnation, manifestation, crystals, life after death & astrology. Again, I’m not saying this is “the right way.” Your relationship with religion is a complex & personal one. Not something anyone ever needs to understand or explain. The combination of these concepts make up the religion for MY life. How I choose to view and interact with the world around me. After all, isn’t that the ultimate point of religion? A system of beliefs & values to live your life as a good, well-rounded person.
I’ve just decided to write my own book. ❤️
