Feeling safety in pure faith

[brightlotusmoon]

Something Vicki posted today made me think. I realize that I'm basically on the same kind of path she is, exploring and expanding to all these belief systems that feel "right" to me, becoming truly eclectic. There's an inherent beauty and comfort in the security of religion, and there is also an inherent beauty in comfort in the wild expanse of not having a religion. I think it really, truly depends on the individual. We cannot hope to change someone else's mind about these things unless he or she wants it. This is why I don't like any kind of proselytizing, from any belief system.
And interestingly enough, this applies to my earlier entry on how certain books can become phenomenons. Just because I don't like a certain book and someone else loves it, doesn't mean we must fight over it and tear each other apart. It's not the book itself, it's the behavior and attitudes of the people who read the book. It's not the religion itself, it's the behavior and attitudes of the people who follow -- or criticize -- the religion.

Vicki said:
"The thing about any religion (no intention here to offend anyone... just my personal viewpoint) is they *really* are invested in the nice neat little boxes that make everyone feel better and more secure in a basically very *unknowable* mysterious universe. It takes alot of courage to see & accept just What Is right in front of you without interpretation. All religion provides so many security blankets and structures within which to live so you can feel safe ... [snip] ... I think my way is a combination of so many things I've learned and now am unlearning! :) As I allow the ego & identity structures to dissassemble, the greater Truth I've been searching for all my life is clearer than before. All the constructs we work so hard to keep together in a life is all just our own prison in so many ways... anyway, I could go on and on... hahahha life is made for freedom and I know that now in a way didn't before.. It's finally beginning to dawn... whew..."

Comments

[satyrblade.livejournal.com]

Funny you should mention boxes. I've said for years that "religion is a game of god-in-the-box."

The way I see it, someone has a revelation. And so, they build a box out of whatever materials seem handy and appropriate, then call folks over to see the box. "Look in the box!" they say. "God's in the box." And so, folks come to the box and look. Some of 'em see the materials, some see the construction, some actually share the initial vision, some add things on or draw their own conclusions about it, and lots of 'em just see the box... but because this box is important, they don't say anything to disturb the peace. If someone does, they then beat the offender over the head with said box. Eventually, most folks just worship the box. It's easier to comprehend than infinity.

Now, a box has certain advantages. You can see the box, carry the box, stand on the box, take shelter in it, put stuff into it, lean on it, bring it with you wherever you go, show it to other people, and even deck folks with it if you don't like them.

Trouble is, divinity doesn't fit in a box. Nor does revelation. Nor does the world around us. A box is convenient, supportive, handy and comprehendable. What it is not is God. It's a human construction, not an infinite container... which is a contradiction in itself. A box can be pretty, astute and meaningful. Ultimately, though, it's still just a box.

And God doesn't fit in a box.

Feel free to quote this metaphor. It's clearly on your mind already! ;)

[brightlotusmoon.livejournal.com]

This is BRILLIANT. I think this is something everyone needs to consider. Thank you so much for sharing!

[satyrblade.livejournal.com]

Thank you, fox-lady. :)

[walksbeauty.livejournal.com]

Expressed so wonderfully! *giggling lots...*

"It's easier to comprehend than infinity." and

"Trouble is, divinity doesn't fit in a box.... Ultimately, though, it's still just a box.... And God doesn't fit in a box.'

I love this person's POV! Wanna friend?

[satyrblade.livejournal.com]

Thanks. Sure. :)

[threnodyeris.livejournal.com]

O/T

do you know when/where jason is playing tonight? i can't find any info or get ahold of him.

[brightlotusmoon.livejournal.com]

It's across from the fire house in Bethesda... something called One World School, I think. He plays from 8:00 to 8:30.

His phone is temporarily dead, BTW.

[walksbeauty.livejournal.com]

Each person is capable of (repsonsible to?) creating their very own personalized version of spirituality, god, what works for them! A sign of the times getting healthy, to me, is seeing people feeling secure in their own views and also being accepting of what others may embrace. Books, movies, , religion, food, skin care products :D, whatever! ha!
a picture for fun.. just cause I can..! hahaha

[brightlotusmoon.livejournal.com]

That's so pretty!

[poelaramont.livejournal.com]

I think everyone is wrong. Including me.

I guess I just created a paradox.