def: religion n a belief in God or gods; a system of worship and faith; a formalized expression of belief. (Webster's English Dictionary Concise Edition) falls between relieve and relinquish.
I was involved in an interesting conversation last night regarding this very topic. Touchy for some I think because it can and most times defines who we are. I was raised Catholic, but I'm not what you would call a "practicing Catholic" I vaguely remember the last time I set foot in a Catholic church. That doesn't mean I don't believe, I do, whole heartedly. I am just not comfortable with organized religion, and that's my personal opinion. Now this conversation could have gone terribly bad because conversations about this particular topic generally do, because when you have strong feelings about your beliefs, the last thing you want is someone making you think maybe your wrong, or worse, have you questioning your beliefs.
That didn't happen because I didn't take it personally. I stand very strong in my beliefs and convictions and it's doesn't matter how many questions are thrown my way, I will not falter. For me it is right. It may not be for everyone, but I'm content. And so the conversation was an exchange of ideas and concerns about what religion is. We talked about "The Church of Elvis" and wondered if the congregation worshiped Elvis? Something I'll have to google when I have a chance. Or is it an "off shoot" of say a Baptist Church, if I'm not mistaken Elvis was Baptist, I'll google that too just to be sure. So if religion is the worship of not only God but gods, then why not worship Elvis? To many that is fundamentally wrong, it's the whole Gold Calf thing all over again. But for some, it's perfectly acceptable. I'm on the fence. Who am I to say who's right or wrong? Who are you for that matter?
If you are happy and healthy and not hurting anyone with your beliefs, not ramming them down someone elses throat, then go a head worship, Elvis, it's only once we've died that we find out if we were right anyway, so why not be happy while your here. That, in my humble opinion is the way we should live. Be happy with who you are, be happy with your convictions and beliefs and don't hurt others because of them. Don't use your religion to justify your bad behaviour towards others. Don't use your religion to take advantage of peoples good will or charity. That is fundamentally wrong on so many levels. And don't judge others because you don't agree with their beliefs, did your God assign you the task of judging others? I would think not.
Now, if your religion teaches you to hate, then by definition that's fine too. No were in the definition does it say "for the good of all mankind" so if your taught to believe another religion or race or species is bad, and you must do what you can to eliminate it, then that's your belief. Is it right, well in my opinion no, but I'm sure there are those who would argue the point. I would like to believe that religion would teach it's better to be kind and tolerant than not. After all we do share the same planet and wouldn't you rather be happy and not looking over your shoulder because of your beliefs? Unfortunately that happens, and it's not right, no way, no how.
Wars are fought over religious beliefs, and that too is wrong. Leave well enough alone. But then, what if your religion was hurting others? Even within religions there are problems, mostly it's in to oppression of women, and hey by the way, who said you men could oppress us? GOD? Not my God. So stop it. Yah, maybe war to fight for your rights and freedom is necessary, but, what is wrong in the first place that you have to resort to war? Look within before blaming or pointing fingers at others. As a person of very strong beliefs, I look forward to the day we stop fighting over who's right or wrong and just accept our differences as they are.
I don't prescribe to a particular religion, I haven't found one that fits my ideal, I may never. I have been exposed recently to some different religious perspectives and at this time, I'm not buying in. Not because I don't think they are good enough for me, just that they aren't for me period. I know most religions frown on the whole, "I have my beliefs and I don't need to go to church to have them" statement. But it's true, and really if a "church" were truly of God and working towards the betterment of all mankind, then it should be fine with them how I feel. My church is in my heart and in my conversations with God. Just because I'm not showing up on Sunday and giving you my money doesn't make me any less worthy than you. Don't judge me I don't judge you.
All that being said, I know there are people who need their church and their religion for a sense of belonging, maybe they came from a dysfunctional family and their church is the better option. I come from a great family, a big family, and I feel very connected to my family. I don't need a congregation to validate my existence, my family does that for me. I don't need a church to replace my home, I'm always welcome "home" weather it be my parents, my sister, or my extended family, I am never left to rely on the kindness of strangers to replace my family. And my family is far more forgiving of my shortcomings, as I would be of theirs. Can you say that about your "family"? If so great, if not why?
I have my beliefs and convictions, and I won't shove them down your throat if you don't shove yours down mine. This is were we can agree to disagree and find peace with it.
Much love and light,
Tammy.
Note: I googled the Church of Elvis, an lo and behold it's Canadian...LOL figures check the link.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/story/2004/01/11/elvis_church040111.html
No comments:
Post a Comment