 Spiritual: May 14, 2014 Issue [#6313] |
  Spiritual
This week: Religion vs. Spirituality Edited by: Shannon  
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Welcome to the Spiritual Newsletter. I am Shannon and I'm your editor this week. |
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"Religion is often about who’s in and who’s out, creating a worldview steeped in 'us against them.' Spirituality rejects this dualism and speaks of us and them. Religion is often about loyalty to institutions, clergy, and rules. Spirituality is about loyalty to justice and compassion. Religion talks about God. Spirituality helps to make us godly. The two need not be at odds. Religion at its best is spirituality in community." ~ Rabbi Rami Shapiro
When asked what the difference is between religion and spirituality, many of us find the delineation difficult to articulate. I've read many opinions and views about the subject, but Rabbi Shapiro's is my favorite. It rings true, at least in my personal experience, and it's why I've rejected many of the teachings of my youth.
Religion and spirituality are very private choices that some believe are off limits to discussion by others--the business of the individual alone. I happen to agree. Having someone question or belittle your faith feels like a personal attack, like someone insulting your mother, and few things raise your ire the way that does. Sure, we may disagree and think someone else's beliefs are odd or even misguided, but to confront them and try to convert them to our way of thinking is, in my humble opinion, wrong and as pointless as trying to convert a republican to the democratic point of view (or vice versa). I suppose that's why they say you should never discuss religion or politics; they are your opinions and should remain as such.
I'm forty-six years old and still struggle with what I do and do not believe. My beliefs may change (they've done a complete 180 since I was in my 20s), but some things remain the same, like my respect, admiration, and love for Jesus and the example that was his life.
Like everyone else, my spiritual and/or religious beliefs are based on how I was raised, what I've experienced, and how I see the world around me. Your experiences probably aren't the same as, say, indigenous Aboriginal Australians; mine differ from China's rice farmers, therefore it stands to reason that our views about God will differ as well.
I like to think of writing.com as a judgment-free zone, so let's discuss it. What spiritual practice and/or religion do you call your own? Tell us what you love about it and why and I'll share your thoughts in next month's newsletter.
Until then, thank you for reading.
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The following is in response to "Batter Up!" :
Prosperous Snow celebrating  writes, "This is a group for anyone who has lost family members, friends, or anyone special. The message forum can be accessed from the group page." "United in Our Grief" [13+] Thank you for sharing this group with me and the readers. 
Elfin Dragon-finally published  writes, "Your story about your husband's accident reminds me of the worst accident I was in when just a tot with my brother when my dad was driving. It was one of those in which you thank God was watching over all of us. I had actually asked my dad if I could sit in the front seat, and he said yes (I should have been in the back in my car seat.) For once he wasn't wearing his seat belt. My brother was in his car seat behind me. What happened was a van ran a red light as we were going through a green. Our car flipped and the driver and passenger side, on the driver side, was smashed. My dad fell into my lap, and I was upside down. If I had been in my car seat, I would not be alive because there would have been a steel rod through my head. My brother was terrified but fine. I honestly believe in seatbelts and wouldn't get in a car without buckling up. But on that day I believe God knew we needed to be in different places so we could keep living. Sometimes God just knows more than we do." I believe it must not have been your day to die, just like it wasn't my husband's. You both had more work to do and lives to touch, and for that I am grateful. 
VRBlackwell  writes, "Wow, that was a very interesting and touching newsletter. Sorry to hear about your husbands accident and your personal losses, but good to know he is alright. This is a good writing example. It was well written. Thanks for sharing!" Thank YOU for reading and commenting. 
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