BE Inspired

Letter #8 in a series...

Lesson: Just be a good human.

Dear Future Grandchildren,

Today’s letter is going to be about a controversial subject - religion. Is talking openly about religion still somewhat taboo? Maybe by the time you read this it won’t be. But, before I share with you my opinions, I want to make it absolutely clear that you have control over what you do and don’t believe and have my full, enthusiastic support to practice whatever religion you choose. And, you have the right not to practice any, as well.

After all, there are so many wonderful things about formalized religion. First and foremost, there are the rituals like attending mass each week, reciting prayers, and singing songs. These can give you an amazing sense of calmness, hope, and joy. Being designated as a member of a certain religion immediately makes you part of a large, supportive community of like-minded individuals. This, of course, can bring much happiness and a sense of belongingness that humans so crave. And, religious teachings share so much wisdom about what makes us human, right vs.wrong, and the power of prayer- all of which can help you lead your life with grace.

Life is hard and navigating through its ups and downs can make us yearn for security and a sense of hope. Religion can provide that for many. It also gives some a way to combat their fear of the unknown. For all the things science can not explain like is there an afterlife, or why do bad things happen to good people, or how do I know I’m on the right path in life….religion can fill in the gaps so that we can live in comfort and in peace. Some may believe in astrology, lucky charms, crystals, sayings, or personal rituals to find their sense of tranquility. Again, I say... whatever works for you! However, your Nana got somewhat disenchanted with religion over the years.

As I got older and more educated, I realized that some religions dictate that their followers can not eat certain foods; others value the life of a fetus more than the life of the mother; others do not recognize or tolerate members of the LGBTQ community; and some even go so far as saying it's okay to kill another person as long as it's done in the name of their God. To me these are all major red flags. I just couldn't imagine any God supporting these ideals because they all seem based in negativity and hate. I also came into contact with many people during my lifetime who considered themselves "very religious" who acted in boastful, greedy, gossipy, and even cruel ways. This also made no sense to me as surely, no God would condone such behavior. Now, religion is much more complicated and multi-layered than I'm able to explain in a short letter, but suffice it to say for the reasons above and others I decided to separate myself from formalized religion. Instead, I decided to live my life in the way my version of God would want me to- and that is by adhering to two principles.

The first is kindness. I believe strongly that, first and foremost, you must be kind to all living things- people, animals, and nature. This sounds simple, but it is sometimes quite hard. It requires an open mind and an open heart as well as patience and constant practice. It also necessitates that we care for our earth by taking the difficult steps to change our ways. {Have we addressed climate change appropriately yet? I hope so!} The second is living by the Golden Rule which states... “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you”. This one is also a challenge because I think it involves not only your treatment of others, but the way you think about them, too. Holding the door for the person coming in behind you is the right thing to do, but not judging them for what they look like is also the right thing to do. Actions and thoughts both have to follow the Golden Rule.

For me, the concept of 'religion' is that uncomplicated. Those two principles encompass all that any God asks of us and we should lead our lives with those ideals guiding us at all times. I personally don’t think she/he cares if we go to church each week, or if we recite memorized words, or if we sing certain songs. I think God would much rather see us express our humanity by practicing what she/he preaches…by letting the proof be in the pudding…by personifying the concept of well done rather than well said…by letting our actions speak louder than our words…and by living with a strong sense of ethics.

I used to tell your grandfather that ideally, in my mind, all first year college students should have to take a class on all the religions of the world. At that age I think you are mature enough to then pick the one that you identify with the most as opposed to simply practicing whatever religion your parents raised you with. That's probably a very unpopular opinion, but it's my truth. In the end though, the Dalai Lama said it best, "I believe the only true religion is to have a good heart." I genuinely think it's that simple. Imagine a world full of people with good hearts who are always kind to one another and who always adhere to the Golden Rule? Wow, what a wonderful life we could all lead if that were the case!

So, do your part and live your life according to Nana's two principles along with any religion you do or do not choose. That way, I can guarantee your light will shine bright and encourage all of those you meet to be better humans too.

Love,

Nana XOXO