Religious Freedom.....

Religion...the last time I checked it was a right in this country to believe how you want, to pray and worship how you choose and in that right, is included the protection of the government to allow you to do so. In fact, this country is based on that. The Pilgrims came over on that long journey across the ocean to have just that. No one telling them how to worship.

I was raised Baptist. I am of christian faith. I tell everyone before we start circles that I am. If no one likes it that's just too bad. I have been told that in the Bible it states that those who speak with Spirits are to be condemned, but I can also show you many more passages in the Bible where Spirit was spoken to and it was just fine. I wrote a whole blog on those passages and where to find them. I won't repeat that here.

The Owl's Nest, where I do most of my work, was recently the recipient of what I consider to be a hate crime. No one was hurt but the action was clearly of an unkind nature and one to be watched. The store is a haven for many people who believe in many different ways. When you enter it you know you are someplace where you are accepted and honored. There are many roads to God..not one being better than any other. God loves us all...and how we arrive to Him/Her is completely our personal choice.

The First Amendment allows us the right to have freedom of religion. Our forefathers fought for that right. No one religion is better than another. No religion has access to heaven before another, and no one has the right to shove their religion down your throat. The Golden Rule applies to all religions: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Don't cast a stone until you have looked within your heart to know that you are sinless. We are all sinners.....even those who profess to be "forgiven" are still sinners. If you believe in sin, that is.

People come to me when they are at a crossroads. I give them options. I don't tell anyone what to do or how to live their life. I give them choices. Sometimes it's hard to see the forest for the trees, especially when life is so stressful. I don't care how you believe...we are all brothers and sisters. We should all love one another regardless of anything. We are all connected and if you are unhappy with someone...you are unhappy with yourself.

May the Light of Jesus Christ enfold you. Yes, I believe. But my belief is not dependent on anyone else's view of me. And to the person or persons who are making themselves known in nasty little ways at the Owl's Nest. Be very careful....you are being watched.