The inquisitive child within us seeks meaning in unique ways.In my own childhood my inquisitive child was provoked by my parents attitude towards a certain family in our community. I remember getting the message that due to their outward appearance (the donning of a black hat by the father, long sleeve dresses and stockinged feet by the women in the family) this family was “more religious” than my family was.
My young inquisitive mind was provoked. I couldn’t figure it out: a) Why was outward appearance the criteria for religiosity? b) If being religious was important (a message I also got) then shouldn’t it be better to be “more” religious? And in that case, why aren’t we like them?
I will not attempt to answer these questions here but only to draw the line between my early inquisitive child in my youth and the inquisitive child that continues to ask these questions today.
What is the true nature of religious expression and consciousness? Is it not the quest to grow to full human stature? Is it not to develop an authentic relationship with our self, others and the One who created us?
These are the questions I live with, that provoke thought and help me discover meaning.