Fighting Over God
Fighting over God
Any references to god are meant to be generic and non specific. They are personal thoughts which do not endorse any particular belief.
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God save us from those perfect humans who have never been wrong.
The rest of us should learn to tolerate, understand, and accept each other.
This work presents a perspective of religion, intended to reduce tension between between people of differing beliefs.
Some people believe that their opinions on various matters are correct and that there can be no other valid points of view. This is an ego centred way of viewing the world which will inevitably lead to conflict.
Many aspects of our emotional make-up prevents us from being able to view things from the perspective of others. Ego feeds on insecurity, fear, doubt, ignorance, and arrogance.
People must be willing to suspend judgment of others and accept their right to make decisions for themselves.
Who among us is without fault? Who has not made mistakes? Who does not have flaws and weaknesses? Accepting this truth can be an important step towards accepting others.
People who are unwilling to see their own shortcomings are usually judgmental and critical of others. We need to be able to embrace our flaws.
Connect with others to find shared experiences. It is impossible to overestimate how important this can be.
Do not Judge! Open your heart and mind! Accept others without condition.
Religious beliefs constitute one of the greatest stumbling blocks to the pursuit of peace on earth. People must learn to put aside these differences.
We should use intuition, conscience and intellect to better understand and appreciate each other.
Reject outside influence and decide for yourself. Step back, observe, and allow logic to lead you. Be willing to accept those whose beliefs are different.
Embrace each other as the brothers and sisters that we truly are.
Help to bring about a kind, gentle society.
The creator, by any name you choose, may include the consciousness of all and therefore not be individual. God has no gender nor requires a name.
Some of the opinions expressed may seem difficult to accept. The hope is that this will encourage readers to consider differing perspectives and to form their own conclusions.
Space is provided between the thoughts to enable a reader to include and preserve their interpretation.
Revisit these written expressions to show the evolution of your thought process.
Make this work your own.
Most people are spiritual or believe in a faith. This is something we share.
The earliest cave drawings show evidence that humans felt there was more to life than the obvious. The search for deeper meaning was a bond that allowed people to draw together.
Superstition and myth were rampant in these early attempts to understand our origin and purpose.
Every civilization had its own theory of creation. Rulers and religious leaders developed these thoughts into beliefs whose primary function was to further their agendas and to control the populace.
By manipulating these stories, leaders took advantage of the weaknesses of human nature. War, oppression and killing were justified and glorified.
Leaders encouraged followers to accept the idea that the elite were of divine origin and consequently godlike and infallible.
Disinformation and deception were used to reinforce their followers’ beliefs and to discredit those of others.
Leaders endorsed beliefs intended to create a pattern of behaviour which would solidify their control.
Through repetition, disinformation became accepted as truth. This tactic is still in evidence today.
From this acceptance, it was a short jump to the notion that these ideas represented god’s will and were therefore not open to challenge.
Many cults also employed extreme measures to control their followers. Free thought was forcefully discouraged.
Control was exercised by the creation of monuments and idols. These were often enormous or elaborate.
Structures were often built on established sacred sites in a deliberate attempt to invalidate previous beliefs.
These structures were primarily built and used to pay tribute to the gods. Frequently this included ritual torture, animal and human sacrifice.
Murder in the name of faith was justified as god's will.
Study the past. Our history is well documented. We persist in behaving in an illogical and aggressive manner.
Humans have been gifted with intellect, intuition, and conscience. When we utilize these innate abilities, we can act with wisdom and compassion.
Spirituality should help us to recognize that despite minor differences, we all share the same journey. In essence we will collectively succeed or fail as a species.
Resolving religious differences is not a remedy for all of the problems facing society. Other factors are also at work here, including the inability to control our nature.
Because of its enormous impact on society, examining faith is a logical starting point in the pursuit of peace.
Conflict and hatred fostered by organized religion remains the single most divisive influence In our world.
Human arrogance allows the belief that a particular vision of god is so singular, clear, and uncluttered that no other is valid.
Different faiths continue to instill hatred towards each other.
Different factions of these faiths fight for supremacy.
Atrocities continue to be committed in god’s name.
Beliefs remain full of myth and superstition.
In the past, knowledge was restricted to an elite few. This aided the manipulation of information and the control of thought.
Organized religions continue to influence and control their followers.
Corruption and vice remain closely associated with power, wealth, and control.
Many people have blindly followed fanatical zealots down the most destructive paths. All have observed examples of this.
Over the centuries, wars have been initiated and justified as being god’s will.
Barbaric behaviour toward those of a differing faith is still deemed acceptable.
All of these behaviours defy logic.
Reason has been cast aside.
For those wishing to impose their will, there are always willing followers. Perhaps this is our greatest failing.
The majority of humans allow themselves to be manipulated.
People have a strong need to belong and fear rejection.
To be capable of truly independent thought, we must be willing to confront this part of our nature.
Observe the humans who vigorously seek positions of power. They are almost always egotistical, poorly adjusted people intent on validating themselves by bending others to their will.
To blindly remain a follower is to contribute to the problems facing our world. It is critical that we think for ourselves.
People become distracted by their daily lives and abdicate any other responsibility.
Fear inhibits free thinking. Be fearless, not fearful.
Free yourself from the controlling self-interest of others. The search for enlightenment requires that you pursue your own path.
Detachment, reason, and love will serve to guide you and to light the path of your personal journey.
Success in this quest will fundamentally change the way in which you experience life.
Seek truth above all things. Though sometimes inconvenient, this will act as a light in the darkness.
Achieving spiritual enlightenment can prove to be the ultimate challenge.
Open your mind and heart. In this receptive state, awareness and insight may be achieved.
Recognize the interference of ego as you process insights that you have received. Ego can dominate your thoughts leaving no room for god or reason.
Do not dwell on the realizations you may have. Welcome them simply as information. Time is necessary to provide clarity.
Routine can contribute greatly. Give thanks regularly. Appreciate the blessings in your life.
The practice of giving thanks will remind you of your priorities and help guide you to the life you were meant to experience.
It is expected that life will provide setbacks and that
for periods of time spiritual connection will fade.
When your thoughts are confused, find comfort in peaceful contemplation. This will usually help bring focus and resolution.
Success is incremental. Be patient, understanding, loving and forgiving. Detachment and tranquility will aid in the quest for knowledge.
Hopefully we may reach one inescapable conclusion. We are all brothers and sisters and should unite in a desire to create a better world.
In most faiths, the body of teaching contains messages which are valid and beautiful. Recognize the importance of these messages and separate them from the myths and untruths.
Though institutions may continue to cling to outdated concepts, these falsehoods are evidence of different motives.
The universe is comprised of god’s energy. It may be felt and observed in all things. It surrounds us and resides within us.
We were given intelligence for a reason. People who make thoughtful decisions experience life in a more meaningful way.
We have an innate guidance system. Many are aware of this inner voice. It may be viewed as conscience, intellect, or intuition. When considered, this voice gives good counsel.
Though many people heed this voice, many more are seemingly unaware of its existence.
Most make no effort to explore their ability to experience a higher level of awareness. They ignore, deny, and avoid any spiritual thought.
Choose to listen to your inner voice. It will provide clarity and direction concerning your decisions.
Your behaviour should be in harmony with your beliefs. Look in a mirror. This is to whom you are accountable.
By avoiding responsibility or blindly following others, we allow less scrupulous individuals to influence and manipulate our decisions.
Be an advocate for change. To avoid involvement lessens
your opportunity to contribute to society.
Be honest with yourself. This will free you to be more understanding of others.
Find your own path. When searching for answers, connecting with inner awareness can play a pivotal role.
Question all things. Organized religions hold true many beliefs which do not stand up to logic or fact.
Occasionally, step back from the pressure and difficulties which are part of everyone’s daily life. Give yourself time for relaxed thought.
Achieving a relaxed, peaceful feeling is a worthwhile outcome in itself. Epiphany is only occasionally experienced.
Find a method of relaxation which comes naturally. Meditation, music, breathing exercises, visualization, and physical exercise are examples which many have found to work.
Regardless of the method chosen, different approaches should lead to the same conclusions.
Do not reject one set of beliefs to simply replace them with another. Establish your own.
People will present themselves as teachers and guides. Share open dialogue. Accept those ideas which seem logical and correct to you.
However well intended, the opinions of others should be rejected if not in line with your beliefs.
A person who does not consider the opinions of others is unworthy of being a teacher. Only give credence to those with an open mind and heart.
Embrace your realizations. Examine them intellectually. Remain open to learning.
Live in the present. Recognize opportunity. Intuition will guide you to make good choices.
Problems and difficulties are opportunities to learn and grow.
Value relationships. Learn to love and give humbly and without expectation.
Be aware of the harmful influences of rationalization and ego. None are completely immune to their flattery.
Perceived needs can be introduced to our intellect through ego. Awareness of this is a step towards personal freedom.
All intuitions must be processed by intellect. Desire, rationalization, and ego represent the largest negative influences on our conclusions.
Be suspicious of the motives of others who appear to be self serving.
Do not allow the desire to please others to cloud your better judgment.
Fight the wish to conform, though it will sometimes make you unpopular.
Fear, jealousy, greed, and aggression exert strong negative influences. Emotional control requires self discipline and practice
The desire for power, and control over others, is equally misleading. Detachment from this influence can be an elusive goal.
Observe how this may affect others. Self interest may be seen in the behaviour of individuals and of groups.
Religious organizations have been shaped by the prejudices and preconceived ideas of their human leaders. This continues to be true.
Free yourself from the influence of others who are self serving. Trust your own instincts. Determine your own truth.
It is better to make your own mistakes than to allow others to influence your choices and regret having done so.
We are all god’s children. Accept and embrace our basic fellowship. Our best interest is served by working together.
Consistency is a cornerstone of success. Appreciate the beauty around you and the blessings in your life. Find time to give thanks.
Treasure moments of peace and tranquility. These are opportunities to be introspective.
Be generous and giving of your time and affection. Keep your energy peaceful and strong.
Everyone you interact with presents an opportunity to learn. Give thought to each new experience.
Be open minded. This is essential to spiritual growth.
Be cooperative and understanding. Accept others without judgment or criticism. Accept their choices, though they may differ from yours.
Follow your own path, and grant the same courtesy to others.
Many others will have experienced thoughts similar to yours. The sharing of beliefs will strengthen your desire for continued personal growth.
If you choose a path of spiritual exploration, you will find others on a similar path. You will not be alone.
Share thoughts with positive intent.
The single words on the next pages are intended to encourage you to explore your thoughts and feelings.
Record the first impression that these words create. Follow this by expanding and clarifying your logic.
Review these thoughts from time to time. Update your conclusions as necessary.
Hopefully, a personal philosophy will emerge, evolve, and provide a guide which will aid you in making decisions.
The value of a person is revealed in the effort they make to improve themselves, their family, and the world around them.
Live a thoughtful, loving life. Most suffering is caused by failure to do this.
Treasure life – give thanks.
Love yourself, so that you may love others.
Remain humble. Be willing to learn and be receptive to continued growth.
Plan for but do not focus on predicting or controlling the future.
Do not dwell overly on what is past. Use it as a motivator to make change.
Live in the moment. When opportunity knocks, you will be able to recognize it.
Seek insight and wisdom.
Be a good listener. Keep an open mind. Remain objective.
Trust your intuition.
Your decisions are the only thing within your control. They allow you to effectively deal with most situations.
Give without condition or expectation.
When you wish to help others, do what you believe to be the best for them. Remain detached from outcome.
Recognize when ego may be influencing your thoughts.
Be free thinking. Draw your own conclusions.
Be trustworthy. Never betray a confidence.
When you admire someone’s behaviour, tell them.
Live so as to earn respect and trust.
Thoughts such as those mentioned above will occur while reflecting. Though not spiritual in nature, they will contribute to an effective, thoughtful life.
Although you may encounter people whose beliefs are similar to your own, society may hold different views.
Societal codes are not mandated by god. Most are logical and contribute to harmony. They are often a reflection of our higher selves.
Many will find that their inner compass also points to the same conclusions.
Most belief systems contain a version of the golden rule. Starting with this as a cornerstone, most other civilized thought may be derived.
In this section, many spiritual beliefs are expressed. They represent various opinions and are meant to provoke thought. Readers are expected to draw their own conclusions.
All religions describe god in our own image. This is the concept that we most readily accept.
Organized religions and cults offer differing attempts to describe the same creator. These notions are potentially as flawed as the preconceptions of their human creators.
Religion may be best viewed as an attempt to describe something beyond human understanding.
When considered in this manner, belief systems can be viewed as complementary and not mutually exclusive. This may lead to some generalizations that people will find hard to accept.
Philosophy, science, and religion often appear at odds. If and when we finally gain the necessary insight, it will be seen that these different viewpoints will be in harmony.
Religions have all incorporated instructions concerning peoples’ behaviour. Some of these represent common sense and remain valid. Others represent outdated concepts which are no longer required.
Societal rules serve an important function but are not an essential part of our spiritual connection with the creator.
God does not favour any faith, tribe, race or country. We are loved equally and unconditionally.
Our relationship with god is not defined by what we eat or drink.
God’s acceptance is unconditional and is not affected by how we look, dress, or wear our hair.
Portraying god as vengeful is an attempt to control through fear. This is a small minded attitude and does not reflect a higher level of awareness.
God does not normally interfere in our daily lives. There is no need. We have been given all the tools required to experience life in a meaningful way.
Observe how people are presented with repeated opportunities to learn the lessons that are appropriate to them.
Religions teach many behaviours intended to encourage humility. These actions can become routine and lose their desired effect. A person who is truly humble demonstrates this at all times.
The concept of a jealous god is illogical and of human creation.
To invoke god’s will as justification for conflict is insanity.
God’s energy may be seen and felt in all things.
We can achieve greater understanding by connecting to that energy within us.
We are all connected by our spiritual energy.
In death all personal energy returns to the universe.
The energy that defines us in this life survives and continues into the afterlife.
Power, wealth, and control in this world will not be of value in the afterlife.
In the afterlife, we are drawn to a place where our energy may bond with souls of similar vibration.
In seeking enlightenment in this life, you will find many people with shared values and beliefs.
Life provides repeated opportunities to learn our lessons.
Learn to recognize the difference between your physical and spiritual energy.
Do not allow others to drain or manipulate your spiritual energy.
This energy is uniquely yours, and others can influence it only if you allow.
For a person to be truly at peace, their energy must be balanced and in harmony with the universe.
The energy that we send out comes back to us in this life and beyond.
All manners of worship are acceptable. It is sufficient that we are loving and humble.
Organized religions all include ritual display intended to establish dominance and encourage obedience.
All sects invent their own word to describe the creator in an attempt to validate a claim of special status.
Time of day, location, posture, or public display of worship are not necessarily a part of demonstrating faith.
Connect with god in your own manner and time.
To make progress in the search for enlightenment is to succeed in this life.
Spirituality should unite us. It speaks to our common bond. United by this, we may then confront the other parts of our nature which bring us into conflict.
A mind is wasted if it is not free to form logical conclusions, unfettered by negative influence.
Beliefs should be reflected in thought and deed.
Love unconditionally and without expectation.
When giving to others, do so without condition.
Give of your time, love, and effort so long as it is in harmony with your sense of what is best.
Respect others’ beliefs, in the hope that they will reciprocate.
If you regret previous decisions, use these feelings as motivation to make change. Once appropriate behaviour has been achieved, guilt or regret may be released.
There is no limit to our capacity to give love. Love should not be used as currency.
Be honest and truthful. Although this is best for others, it is often not what they wish to hear.
Be patient and understanding.
Be willing to forgive when it is appropriate. This is our most difficult task.
Without having forgiven, we are unable to be at peace, either with ourselves or with others.
Continue to study and learn throughout your life. When this is combined with the experiences that life offers, you will have grown in wisdom and awareness.
Blessed are those who achieve awareness and can share it with others.
Consider these thoughts and the conclusions you have reached.
Consolidate these beliefs.
Live accordingly.