When I started taking an interest in my spiritual life, I was drawn to the idea that spirituality without religion might be possible. I often feel that all religion is based in the deep, nameless, mysterious divine force or presence that informs all of our lives. We can call it the Creator, the Almighty, God, Allah, Ek Onkar, Brahman or we may refuse to call it anything at all. All are attempts to express something that can not really be named or defined.

Someone raised in the forest may find spirit in the trees. Someone who prays with hundreds of others may find spirit in the company of friends. A wonderful, wise energy may be perceived by someone as an angel and by someone else as a being from a far away galaxy. When someone feels that peace that passes all understanding they may call it Tariki or they may call it the Holy Spirit. Each of us responds to patterns, images and perceptions that resonate with our emotional and mental landscapes. Whether a prayer or meditation was given to us by a friend or by a long ago saint, if it leads to inner peace, it's worthwhile.

I moved away from religion when I first started exploring my spiritual nature. I didn't see how it could lead me where I wanted to go. Yet now, I find I am drawn back into an appreciation for religion in all its ritual and custom and richness. I love the feeling of sharing faith with others. I love the presence of spirit that fills the walls of a building of worship with an almost tangible sense of peace. I enjoy being in an environment where I may be able to surrender my cares and concerns to something greater than me. At the same time, I try not to get so caught up in the vernacular, the specific steps of any particular path, that I forget that behind all religion is the deeper mystery that calls to all of us who practice.

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