I took the first step of this journey when I was in second grade (60 years ago) and found out from Sister Mary Frances that I couldn't be an altar server because I was a girl. I spent the next 55 years trying so hard not to move forward because I'd be walking away from everything I'd been taught to believe was the truth. The hypocrisy of my religion ate away at me, making me feel that I wasn't doing enough, I wasn't good enough, I wasn't surrendering enough. It brought me no comfort or peace. When I consciously decided to leave, I felt lighter and calmer than I had in decades. I will happily discuss my journey if someone is curious, but I won't force it on anyone.
I love this. I did this. And it was God's voice I heard. For me. And though I can agree that it's ok to do. And willingly share my story when asked. I do come back to visit. And I would never feel it my place to encourage someone else to go with me. I would encourage them to listen for God's voice to guide them. And I freely and often express my feelings as to why the exodus can be a good thing. But it's a tough and painful journey. And each person needs to decide for themselves if they want to go through it.
With one life to live, I’ve always been confused how people are willing to be stuck in a box of contradictory indoctrination, laden with man made perameters of fear and guilt, to keep them tithing with the hope of an eternal utopian paradise without proof. Isn’t this world our utopia, here and now? Are we not our own masters of self discovery? Instead of being the tool, why not be the carpenter creating your own box filled with your truths. We only get one chance at life, and to think I’m gonna play follow the leader is absurd to me. Just be kind, and the journey will unfold it’s magical revelations.
I purchased several copies of your book “Rise” to share with relatives and friends before Lent. I’m also a paid subscriber to your Substack columns. I have found I find your narrative so much more enjoyable and meaningful than when I read it. I appreciate your inflection and it’s like you’re telling a story.
If you were to produce an audio version of the book I would buy several copies for those I gave the book to. I feel like starting the day with your interpretation of the writings giving each day’s more meaning.
I hope you consider this project with all the others you are undertaking.
I took the first step of this journey when I was in second grade (60 years ago) and found out from Sister Mary Frances that I couldn't be an altar server because I was a girl. I spent the next 55 years trying so hard not to move forward because I'd be walking away from everything I'd been taught to believe was the truth. The hypocrisy of my religion ate away at me, making me feel that I wasn't doing enough, I wasn't good enough, I wasn't surrendering enough. It brought me no comfort or peace. When I consciously decided to leave, I felt lighter and calmer than I had in decades. I will happily discuss my journey if someone is curious, but I won't force it on anyone.
A very powerful piece. My sense is it applies to all equally and simultaneously.
I love this. I did this. And it was God's voice I heard. For me. And though I can agree that it's ok to do. And willingly share my story when asked. I do come back to visit. And I would never feel it my place to encourage someone else to go with me. I would encourage them to listen for God's voice to guide them. And I freely and often express my feelings as to why the exodus can be a good thing. But it's a tough and painful journey. And each person needs to decide for themselves if they want to go through it.
With one life to live, I’ve always been confused how people are willing to be stuck in a box of contradictory indoctrination, laden with man made perameters of fear and guilt, to keep them tithing with the hope of an eternal utopian paradise without proof. Isn’t this world our utopia, here and now? Are we not our own masters of self discovery? Instead of being the tool, why not be the carpenter creating your own box filled with your truths. We only get one chance at life, and to think I’m gonna play follow the leader is absurd to me. Just be kind, and the journey will unfold it’s magical revelations.
May we shatter those pockets of darkness. “This is my story. This is my song…”
Hope eternal!
I did not exit my religion (faith); but I did walk away from false and demeaning practices.
John:
I purchased several copies of your book “Rise” to share with relatives and friends before Lent. I’m also a paid subscriber to your Substack columns. I have found I find your narrative so much more enjoyable and meaningful than when I read it. I appreciate your inflection and it’s like you’re telling a story.
If you were to produce an audio version of the book I would buy several copies for those I gave the book to. I feel like starting the day with your interpretation of the writings giving each day’s more meaning.
I hope you consider this project with all the others you are undertaking.
Thanks for listening.
Rick
Beautiful.
Remarkable.