Religion is man’s attempt to make sense of his/her own personal connection to God, the Universe, our own higher self within the context of human form. How can we be a part of God when we are separate from him here on the earth in these human, very limited bodies? Religion is man’s attempt to answer that question. The truth is, we are not separate. We only feel that way because of the boundaries and limitations placed on us by human form. Religion is but an organized way of feeling this connection. It can also be a celebration of this connection. It is an opportunity to come together as humans and celebrate the spirit within, celebrate our connection to God, The Divine, The Universe, however you choose or have been conditioned to define it. In its best sense, in this way, religion can be a positive and good thing. It is a collective experience based on a culture’s experiences and circumstances. An island culture will no doubt experience God differently that a mountain culture, simply based on what aspects of creation they witness daily. When religion becomes co-opted by those wanting personal glory and power and seek this by instigating mind control in the name of God that religion can be corrupted. When thoughts of God and views of God become so rigid and unbending, troubles arise. We must remain open to new ideas and new approaches to our relationship with God. Then, religion can evolve along with humanity and more peace will be evident on the planet. It is important to look beyond your own beliefs, to test them, to find opportunities to test them to see if they hold up under scrutiny, whatever your belief may be. Appreciate the viewpoints of others, especially when they are very different from your own, for with them you have the chance to explore what is in the shadows of your own beliefs. What have you flinched away from in your system of belief? Face it head on and develop your own truth and your own personal connection to your God. This is all part of the evolution of the human species, to personalize our connection to our Divine source.