Religion

i was raised a Southern Baptist. my grandfather was a Deacon and my step-dad was a preacher. my family is still very religious.

Over the years i have learned to distinguish religion from spirituality. i have come to understand that spirituality is me working out what i believe and have found to be true for my inner self. i still believe in basic Christian tenets. i also know and have respect for other beliefs as well.

One of the ideas i practice is that i should never disregard another person's beliefs and spirituality. i respect someone who is searching, whether their path takes them to Buddha, Judaism, or Wicca. i believe strongly that each person is responsible to work out their own spirituality. 

i strongly believe that we are a combination of those who have gone before us and those who have invested in us. That might come in the form of friends, family, or mentors.  My inner Celtic girl tingles when i hear certain music and chants.  i also feel my spirit commune with God in certain places or situations.  There is power and spiritual energy all around us.  To ignore this part of me would be foolish.  It is my responsibility to foster this, to challenge myself, and grow as life around me changes.