By Johnny White LCSW
2/5/23
There is a difference between organized religion and Spirituality. Over 5 billion people across our planet earth subscribe to a religion. Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, Judaism are the main organized religions. I would shudder to think what our world would be without them. On the positive side they impact the daily lives of people in a positive manner. Religions guide humanity and gives humanity a moral compass to operate by. They give structure to reality of our daily lives. But in modern times we must not negate the value of Spirituality. Spirituality from my point of view emcompasses all of life and all religions. One of the common denominators that I see in my therapy practice is the lack of connecting to a higher power to make day to day decisions. And to be guided by a Moral Compass that balances the right from wrong in behaviors and actions. Religions can often be dogmatic, fixed and limiting. "My God is the only God and the only way to heaven". All other Gods and religions are not true". Religion limits the options of individuals but religions and beliefs are necessary especially in the times we live in. The Devout followers of a religion are often times more healthy than non followers. Althought extremist operate in all religions and can be very dangerous.
Spirituality overcomes and transcends the dogma of religion. Modern day religions have become in many instances the extension of Politics. The great religions are used as political tools today in modern times. They are being directed into the political realm for votes. Pastors are endorsing politicians, Christian Evangelicals have endorsed worthless and immoral politicians in America. Muslims have blown themselves up in the name of their religion. Spirtiuality is transcendent and can be used therapeutically to engage in relaxation, overcoming depression and anxiety. Millions of people are now practicing Yoga and becoming Vegetarians and Vegans, studying Metaphysics and Philosophy. They are embracing new societies such as the Rosicrucians. and the BaHai's that are teaching universal truths beyond politicas, racism and hatred. The Universal Lightbearers are one such Metaphysical Society that embraces these Universal truths. Our world is evolving into a Spiritual world. All religions will one day fade away and be replaced by a New way of thinking and being in the world. To be mentally healthy this must happen. It has already begun
Comments