Chapter 1: The Dilemma of Religion vs. Belief

The distinction between religion and belief often leads to significant internal conflict. Many people find the mandatory rituals and routines associated with organized religion burdensome, feeling that they stifle their true human experience. It can seem that religion, whether it involves deities, substances, or even sports, has the potential to drain one's vitality and transform them into a monotonous, unexciting version of themselves—a mere "box ticker."

While it might appear unfair to generalize, it's crucial to note that not every individual who identifies with a religion lacks creativity or passion. After all, the world has seen stunning cathedrals and masterpieces produced by deeply religious individuals. Talent and creativity flourish across various life paths, even among those in seemingly mundane roles.

However, it's worth considering that individuals with strong religious convictions may be limiting themselves in terms of freedom—freedom that exists when beliefs are not intertwined with identity or ego. Holding a belief in the unknown is akin to believing in something larger than oneself, as the unknown encompasses everything beyond our comprehension. Human significance often seems tethered to knowledge; thus, many turn to religion as a refuge from the uncertainties of life, seeking solace in a divine presence that provides a set of tasks and expectations.

Religion offers a sense of safety—a comforting enclosure where people can feel secure. Yet, whether one subscribes to traditional religions like Catholicism or more contemporary spiritual practices, many still find themselves making the same choices that transform the known into something revered. Whether it’s Allah, God, or the Universe, these beliefs can lead to complacency.

The beauty of belief lies in its simplicity; it doesn’t demand opinions or actions for validation. Existence itself should suffice without the burden of guilt. Unlike humans, animals do not construct complex belief systems or persecute those who think differently; they simply live. Despite our intelligence, our lives can end in the same way as any other creature, reminding us of our shared vulnerability.

Thus, the pursuit of something greater—akin to a child seeking parental support—is not inherently wrong. I embrace many beliefs, which in turn shape me. However, it becomes misguided when we imbue these beliefs with excessive significance. Beliefs are fluid and can evolve with new insights; in contrast, religion tends to resist change, remaining static.

This rigidity often escapes our notice, as it is intertwined with our egos. We form judgments about others based on differing beliefs and deny acceptance to marginalized groups, often resorting to punitive measures against those who don't conform. Rivalries rooted in sports fandom or religious differences illustrate how belief can devolve into divisive ideology—where control and ego dictate our interactions.

It's no surprise that early human civilizations revered weather deities, as the unpredictable nature of weather was a source of chaos. Today, we still grapple with its uncontrollable elements. However, it is misguided to consider beliefs as fixed entities; labeling them leads to further division and a set of expectations that can feel burdensome.

For instance, why must I express gratitude before meals merely because it's customary? The meal comes from the grocery store, not divine intervention. This tradition, which I found pointless as a child, often seemed to serve only during large family gatherings, where genuine gratitude faded as soon as the event concluded.

Years spent as an atheist revealed the liberating aspects of a life free from dogma, while a period of agnosticism illuminated the vastness of the unknown. Philosophy has shown me the joy in inquiry, while New Age Spirituality has highlighted the downsides of rigid beliefs. Ultimately, grounded spirituality has impressed upon me the value of patience and the right to exist authentically.

In the future, my beliefs may shift once again, and I wholeheartedly embrace that potential. I acknowledge that my beliefs are not fixed; they resemble a fluid state. The greatest disservice I can do to myself is to abandon my curiosity and proclaim, "I know." In reality, none of us can claim to hold absolute knowledge.

In the video "Is belief in God irrational? A philosophy professor's perspective | Meghan Sullivan at Middlebury," the discussion centers on the rationality of belief in God and the implications for understanding spirituality in a modern context.

The video "Why Organized Religion makes Absolutely NO sense #2" critiques the structure of organized religion, exploring the disconnect between belief and the rigid frameworks often imposed by religious institutions.