Published by Religious beliefs are passed down from one generation to another. As children grow, many may continue observing the same traditions while others question their beliefs. Some may explore new avenues, trying to find a connection to something they could call their own. And there are those who choose not to believe in any God or Deity. I believe that everyone should be able to worship as they choose so long as it is not in any way harmful to themselves or others.
My friends used to tell me that they had to go to Catechism classes. I wanted to go too, even though I wasn’t sure what it was all about. Unfortunately, they tried to talk me out of it, saying that it was hard, that there was homework, etc. I know I asked my parent’s about it and questioned why we didn’t attend church but nothing transpired. When my brother and I were still young, my mother walked us to our neighborhood church so that we could see what it was like inside. But the doors were locked. We never went back.
While I grew up in a Christian family, there were no set beliefs. I believed in God and would sometimes read my mom’s Old Testament. And at the same time, I learned about the Chinese Deities. But these seemed more along the lines of myths. By saying this, I do not in any way demean those who hold them in a higher standing. I am only stating my own personal thoughts on the idea.
I didn’t question the things I read in the Old Testament. For me, Jesus is the Son of God. To this day, I believe wholeheartedly. While my beliefs are my own, I would never assume that others think the same way. I find it very uncomfortable when people try to sway me to their side.
Unfortunately, I grew up learning that religion is one of those things you just don’t talk about – especially in the company of others who are not of the same faith. Too many times, people will quarrel on the fact that they believe theirs is the Truth. Why can’t more people just talk about God, Buddha, Mohammed and others as civil human beings? Why do things have to end in a fight? If we truly believe in being the way our Gods or Deities want us to be, shouldn’t we be able to come together as one?
I would love to be able to talk to others in an open and friendly manner. To be able to sit down and talk to a person of the Jewish faith, a Muslim, a Catholic, a Buddhist would be an eye-opening experience. To know how their religion may affect their daily lives, their culture.
Being on the plus side of 50, I am still trying to find my way. I still hold true a lot of the Christian beliefs, though not all. Buddhism interests me a lot and I strive to learn more. At the same time, I am not opposed to reading literature of other faiths. This is my way.
I hope the path you seek will be found.
