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by hunterhod
1297 days ago
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Exactly. From a purely secular perspective, having a consistent community to participate in seems to be an innate human need that churches supplied for a long time. There are plenty of other ways to meet that need nowadays that are especially attractive given the poor example that some Christians set. My hope is that people find satisfaction in life one way or another. |
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The OP says he is feeling lost. Following a map sounds like the sort of thing you do if you are lost. Any of the core scriptures of any of the major religions has the sort of map the OP may be looking for. Read deeply and broadly (Bible, Koran, Torah, Upanishads, Dhammapada, Sutras, Tao Te Ching…but often popular writings about the Scriptures are an easier start or even religious poetry, Perennialist or New Thought/New Age writings). Then find a community you like consistent with what you find true in your reading of those texts, if you wish. Many billions of people over the centuries couldn’t have been that wrong taking such an approach.
But choosing a community first before finding your philosophical/spiritual footing runs the risk falling into a cult. They can seem “especially attractive”…at first. As can political and philosophical fringe groups. Try not to waste your time (and lots of money) by putting their cart before your horse. First find and listen to the still, small voice within, then explore what direction will lead towards your better life. If someone proposes the opposite (community before individual spiritual exploration and commitment), run away while keeping one hand over your wallet, because your money is what they are really interested in.
If you already feel comfortable in the spiritual tradition you were born into, then you already have your answer…you just need to deepen your understanding and actually pursue the practices of that millennia-long tradition. Community and theurgy can help. As the Dalai Lama said, you can test whether you are on the right path if your path is making you kinder and more loving to all you meet. Love your neighbor as yourself. Golden rule. Not that hard :-). I’m guessing your heart will be way more important in finding your way than your head will be. You do know where your heart is, don’t you? :-)