Sunday, May 5, 2013

Me and Religion


I almost hate to confess this.  Lately, I've been trying to study Buddhist philosophies.  I even hand write stuff into a little book to try and help me remember the teachings.  

Dunno why I feel guilty . . . as if I'm abandoning Christianity . . . even though, quite honestly, I have never really been a Christian.  I tried.  I stand there in church with the singing and praising and worshipping, surrounded by Jesus/God-loving people, wishing to be just like them . . . good people . . . with their faith and belief and adoration . . . with peace and love in their hearts.  I truly want to be just like them.  But I'm not.  I can't help it.  Dunno why but that's how it is.  Sorry.  

My search is taking me inward now.  My coworker Meren is praying for me . . . he thinks the Devil is drawing me to the dark side.  I doubt it, but we'll see.

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17 comments:

Kay said...

I've listened to a variety of other religions also. I think every one of them have something wonderful to offer. I guess I like Buddhism for its acceptance of everyone and other ideas. I've always thought that you can be a Buddhist and then be a Christian but not a Christian and then a Buddhist.

Nico said...

Don't be sorry. Some people need to be a 'part' of something and they find it through organized religion. It isn't for everyone. Being a good person is what really counts. Not attending services or prayer meetings. ^-^ Never be sorry for who you are.

K and S said...

I think it is good you are looking inwards, maybe you'll find answers maybe not, but I think reflection is a good thing. Take care :)

Randism said...

wow! do you realize your handwriting is so awesome???

regarding faith, hey! follow your heart, don't look to other people to tell you what you should believe!

Anonymous said...

Jalna,I don't believe you can generalize about anyone's beliefs,faith is so personal. Having an open mind and taking the time to study helps. Perhaps a less charismatic fellowship may be the way...

jalna said...

Kay, I like that about Buddhism too.

Thank you Nico. I feel bad about letting people down, but you're right.

Thank you Kat.

Hahahaha, Rand. This comment made me smile!!

Awwww . . . thanks Anon. "open mind and taking the time to study" . . . I like that.

Anonymous said...

Hi Jalna. Longtime lurker and big time fan here. This post struck a resonant chord with me because I have started to become curious about Buddhist philosophy within the last year or so. For me, at this point, it IS a philosophy instead of a religion, and that appeals to me. I think Kay captures it nicely too.

I really like the idea of your notebook (your handwriting is so nice!). I might try doing that too.

thanks!
~Sunny

waibu said...

No worry, beef curry! You already living and sharing your aloha. You kind, funny, generous. May Buddha, God and the Universe continue to bless us with your blog.

jalna said...

Hey Sunny! Nice to "meet" a kindred spirit. Writing down the teachings helps me absorb it better.

Awww, thanks Waibu, you so kind!

Erick said...

LOL Nothing like covering all the bases.

Nippon Nin said...

I just want to say that God is on your side. My favorite quote - God sees us as he would like us to be...but loves us as we are. I think you're awesome! I wish you the best.

jalna said...

Funny Erick!! Would you believe that I even have a copy of the Koran?! That one is really beeezaar to me.

Awwww Akemi, the feeling is mutual!

Cat said...

Hey Jalna! As you know, Buddhism has been a part of my life since childhood. The teachings have always guided me through the most difficult times. It makes life easy to understand and enables me to better help others. Life's lessons are clearer. Things like...the only thing you should point your finger at is a mirror really helps me grow. I think it's whatever resonates within you...no mattter what. :)

jalna said...

Thank you Cat. I aspire to be just like you!

DNakamaru said...

I can relate.
I don't really connect with organized religion but I do believe in some sort of higher power.

Cat said...

And I like you! You're a very special person in my life and we learn together. My life is richer because you're in it! :)

jalna said...

And you know what Dean . . . you're one of the nicest, kindest person I've ever met.

Awww, thanks Cat!