Do you practice religion?
I used to believe in the bricks and mortar church, it’s leader and the community. I basked in the Sunday smiles and charity work being done and I felt I was where I was meant to be. I was working towards and living my divine purpose as I had learned to. I followed my heart and Gods discerning confirmations through the words of those around me and after a great deal of prayer to be surrounded daily by people of faith, I was granted a position as the Administrator to the Pastor and of the church that I grew up in. A place where my mother and brothers ashes lay.
I led with a compassionate heart and worked tirelessly. I observed for three and a half years the inner workings of that church and found that I didn’t like seeing the man behind the curtain. I watched deceit, pain, loss, prideful leadership, a pastor scratching to get out of a hole they had dug for themselves, and faithful community servants and staff run off as if their lives, contributions to the congregation and their children, and gifts meant nothing. The light that surrounded me was being snuffed out and as my heart broke, with great pain, I resigned.
I pray in earnest daily and nightly. I talk to God as if he is a friend by my side throughout the hours that pass. I feel a warm spirit around me that has been with me since my first memory. I know my higher power does not hold my love and faith to whether I attend a building full of people. I love everyone, inside the building and out. I try to see others point of view and sometimes I do and I don’t.
My practice of religion is in the words of hope that reside with me and my maker and I pray that my light shines on all those who come into my life. My religion is love, the one true meaning of being. Basking in all there is to love in the world doesn’t mean you are exempt from pain. I have had my fair share. It simply means your heart is soft and you can be open to all the good this world has to offer.
Jeri's Brain Dump 