I’ve been thinking about spirituality and religion a lot lately, and where they fit into my life. I’ve never really been one for organized religion; I did the Catholic school thing for ten years and ended up transferring to a Quaker high school, so I’ve had a nice sampling, but I’m still unsure of where I fall exactly. But do I need to “fall” anywhere? Am I supposed to be categorized into one place, tucked away into a drawer with all the other Catholics or Quakers or whomever? Is that where I belong – defined and baptized and sitting, kneeling, standing, kneeling, sitting in unison?
Here’s what I’ve come up with: I don’t see myself as religious but rather as spiritual. I believe one’s spirituality to be deeply personal, a relationship between they and their higher power(s), whereas religion can be more formal and structured by the guidelines of tradition.
This isn’t to say I don’t see the value in gathering with others who share in your beliefs; I enjoy going to Quaker Meeting for Worship, because as one of the other Friends told me last week, “It’s the gathered community that strengthens the sense of spirit.” There’s a comfort in being part of a human spiritual tradition. I also am not casting judgment on those who practice a more programmed or liturgical religion, either, as it is truly one’s own choice and I respect that completely. I’m just sorting out what it means in the context of my own life. I don’t like the emphasis on collection plates and politics, which seem to distract from the practice of love and kindness. What about spreading happiness? The joy of simply being?
And so, I define myself as spiritual. My personal belief is to keep an open heart and open mind; everything happens for a reason, and if you put positivity out into the universe, you will receive it back, tenfold. I trust in that.
We are all denizens of the same planet, no matter how much our beliefs may vary, and it’s important to remember that as we continue our journey through life.
What about you? What do you believe?
I have been trying to figure out how I wanted to respond to this for way too long. I’ll leave it at this: I disagree with your spiritual beliefs, but you nailed the practice of faith itself. Be good to people, don’t judge others lest ye be judged, you know, the sections of the book so often ignored by Westboro Baptist and their like. If I did have faith, I would hope this is how I practiced. Great read.
Thanks, Conor; means a lot to hear that from you!
You should look into Buddhism. The way it’s shaped you don’t have to be devoted to one religion because it’s the body’s spiritual choice. I could be a Buddhist Jew if I wanted to. Or maybe just some meditation here and there to explore yourself. Meditation Station and Meditation Oasis are good free podcasts on iTunes!
I’ll have to check those out! There’s a Shambhala Buddhism center right next to my apartment, perhaps I’ll visit sometime.
that’s a little different…. From what I’ve heard the beginner Buddhist does not do well there. Too much meditation right off the back.
Ah, I gotcha. I’ll have to do my research! :)
i really like this point. i love going to church, but i also really appreciate spirituality. i’m big on spreading faith, but not imposing beliefs. i think people need to find what makes them happy in this world and cling to it with all their strength. i’m glad you have a place where you can feel that way, and that you can embrace spirituality, because i think that’s what matters more than the actual ritual acts of religion. being spiritual is is many ways so much more important.
I agree, Rachel! I think as long as you’re a loving, compassionate person then you’re doing okay in this life. Too many people seem to lose sight of those fundamentals and get caught up in everything else.
My beliefs are similar to what youve said here. I dont discount anyones beliefs but I think of myself as more spiritual than religous. I actually wrote a post about this awhile ago (http://gypsy116.wordpress.com/2011/04/30/my-take-on-spirituality/)
A beautiful read – thank you for sharing your link, Gypsy!
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