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Spiritualism - a religion, a political movement or a way of life? |
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| The Re-Enlightenment |
Whatever beliefs we have grown up with we have all, at some point, asked ourselves the question “Why are we here?” Religions, politics, science – all have provided us with competing explanations but have any provided proof? Spiritualism seeks to provide not only answers but proof as well. Spiritualism is interpreted in many different ways. Sometimes it seems that there are almost as many interpretations as there are people. Or are there? Surely all interpretations of spiritualism should be based on the concept of Pure Unconditional LOVE for Every Living Being. So often we allow this message to be manipulated by self interest, politics, media hype or scepticism. The message is simple so why complicate it? –Spiritualism is Unconditional LOVE. So - is spiritualism a Religion? – It has a structure that most world faiths would recognise. It has creeds/codes of conduct, churches, Ministers/Presidents, Officers & Committees. Spiritualist gatherings often follow religious services. These include singing, readings, sermons/addresses and money collections. It provides a ‘family’ or comfort/support network for those in need. It also fulfils other ‘religious’ criteria - prayer groups, social functions, bazaars etc. Equally, all the worlds’ holy books refer to brotherly/sisterly love, healing, trance and mediumship at some point. While this pleases many, it alienates many more. It seems religion can never be all things to all people. Religion is surrounded by external and internal problems. We all hear stories of churches closing doors to people of different cultures or beliefs and even, sadly, to those whose appearance is different – perhaps due to disfigurement or accident. We also hear of Church Committees, run by an elite or clique who seem to have lost their way, are stuck in the past or are just frightened by change. But is it religion that is the problem? If we truly believe that God /the Great Spirit is great, how can we believe that He/She would really tell people to act in this way or to interpret the message in this way? Is this not our interpretation of religion? Surely all we really need to know is that Spiritualism is unconditional LOVE. So - is it a political movement? What a novelty – religion involved in politics! But why not? Equality for all; Gods gifts used for the benefit of all and above all - unconditional LOVE for every living being. At present this is not our way. We have evolved into a species that covets and in many cases has the attitude ‘do it first in case it’s done it you’. Although this could be very positive if it meant giving LOVE, it’s usually about damaging the other person first! At present Love is not seen as a commercially viable proposition [except in a negative, controlling way], but if we all evolve and advance it is a possibility for the future. Of course it would mean re evaluating and prioritising the really important things…….. So is spiritualism a way of life? YES. If we believe the words and writings of the spiritual messengers across the centuries – then the one constant theme that runs throughout is LOVE & HEALING. If we try at all times to give love, whether in words, by a smile, in acts of kindness or by a simple hug/hand holding, then everybody wins. When we understand this basic message, then the answer to the question WHY ARE WE HERE becomes clear. We are here to learn - to advance - to evolve spiritually. We do this by helping one another to learn - advance –and evolve spiritually. What we give to others we receive back one hundred fold. If we all live our lives with this in mind – or in soul – think how much more developed, advanced and evolved our world would be. |