I have had many people ask me what is the difference between religion and spirituality. Well this is a good question. Religion is the “belief in God or Gods and it often involves worshiping or having a ritual and a code of ethics.” Religion is more earth bound and of physical nature. Think of going to church each Sunday and doing the same thing. As for spirituality, this is “more about character, life, thoughts, or tones.” Spirituality is about things that are NOT earth bound and come from Spirit or the Divine. This is more of your individual connection with Spirit. Think of this like meditation. Many times, people feel that they cannot mix the two of these concepts. Some religious people feel that spirituality is not being in “alignment with God” or to the extreme feel it could be “devils work.” Some spiritual people feel that they don’t have to go to a place of worship or church to seek wisdom from Spirit. Or they don’t feel that they need a 3rd party (clergy person) to be a go between to the Divine. Whatever your view may be on this subject, just go with what is right for you! For me, I am more spiritual than religious. I do believe there is a God, Source, One or “Higher Power” whatever you call it! I feel that these two subjects can be mixed if you want them to. Remember it is up to you on how you feel. I always say take what you need out of something and let the rest go! If something doesn’t feel right then don’t use it, move onto something that does feel right. This is your choice on what makes you feel comfortable and good! Remember, there is no right or wrong to what you think is best for you. I wanted to end with this quote from Pope Francis. I love his view on this subject. Read it and discern for yourself if you are religious or spiritual! Ask yourself, “what resonates with me?” and go with that path!
“It is not necessary to believe in God to be a good person. In a way, the traditional notion of God is outdated. One can be spiritual but not religious. It is not necessary to go to church and give money – for many, nature can be a church. Some of the best people in history did not believe in God, while some of the worst deeds were done in His name.”
-Pope Francis-
