Spiritual, but not religious.
For some time now I have watched a colleagues rolled their eyes when someone told them they were “spiritual, but not religious.” Maybe I have even done it myself a few times. But lately I have begun to understand what, at least, some of those who describe themselves in that way mean when they say it.
Spiritual…
Good. Kind. Treating others with respect. Concerned about their community and country and world. Doing what they can to make the world…at least the world around them…a better place. Working hard at being good partners and good parents. Trying to keep their lives in balance with their values. Not just saying “Thank you,” but being thankful. Still being caught off guard by beauty. Regularly praying, but in their own way.
But Not Religious…
Not “attending church” at least on any kind of regular basis because style, music, message, hymns using 200 year old images, and out-dated prayers just don’t resonate with life as they experience it. And, maybe there is even more distance than that. Disgust at the ongoing instances of sexual misconduct. Turned off by narrow-minded thinking and an “I’m in/you’re out.” attitude. The list could go on.
Maybe I am becoming more of a SBNR type myself.
Which leaves me wondering…
How do I take the best of what I see about religion;
The part that has been most important to me…
The community;
The mutual support and encouragement;
The regular reminder of who I am and who I am called to be;
And create opportunities for conversations with other SBNR folks and see where it might lead.
Any suggestions?
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