Religion and Spirituality Are Different

To me, religion is an agreement between a group of people about what God is. Spirituality is a one-on-one relationship. —-Steve Earle

I am interested that several times, lately, someone comes up to me and tells me that they are spiritual, and then proceeds to describe their religion to me.  Their religion seems to have so many rules and “must do” and “must not do”, I wonder how they can possibly enjoy life. 

I enjoy Steve Earle’s comment.  Steve Earle is a singer and song writer who has written hits for movies including Dead Man Walkingand Brokeback Mountain, to name two.  His quote talks about spirit and it’s relationship with God or Great Spirit.  

Blessings, 

Judy

Black Bear Is A Teacher

Yesterday, we went to Elbow Falls to spend some time outside while it was so warm.  However, when we got there, the Falls were closed due to extreme bear activity.  We went on to another pond, and spent a couple of wonderful hours.  On our way home, a good sized black bear stopped and looked at us, and then crossed the road at a trot.

Black Bear is about being un-encumbered.  It is about the freedom to roam, and to be respected.  Black Bear is about connecting to the wildest part of who we are.

Black Bear is a teacher.  She talks about the perfect timing for things:  new projects, new creativity, new lessons about growth and spirituality.  In her wisdom, she demonstrates the power of retreat.  Most beings do not get enough sleep.  Black Bear says that bears and other creatures like her, know that it is imperative to the creative process of life to get lots of sleep, and to be at one with self.  For humans, this retreat may be for meditation, or for a silent retreat, or even for a retreat into the wilds of nature.

When we emerge from retreat, we will again appreciate the abundance of life, and the sweetness of the world.

Blessings,

Judy