Seekingsophia- thank you for sharing your story. Just think how you have changed that one person's life just by not being afraid to share your perspective. keep it going, my friend!

Thank you. It means a lot to me to be able to share it. Death is one of those things we fear so much in the West and in my studies of eastern religions I have learned how beautiful and special it can be.

Adrian, Wow! What a beautiful piece of writing! Reminds me of some of those crazy futuristic movies or books. Like "The Road"... I certainly hope that this is not what the future holds. I see quite a different future- one where the spirituality of humans grows and faith traditions are upheld as valuable foundations but are also more malleable and able to be questioned. I see less dogma and more emphasis on where different religions overlap. Of course, I tend to be pretty optimistic. I also see the potential for the extremes to be even more extreme- but I think people's awareness- of god within everything and everyone- is growing and leading us toward a growing number of people that are looking for spiritual communities, compassionate leaders, justice, and a symbiotic relationship with the earth. Besides, Christianity has survived 2000 years...I think it will last another 100 at least- that's if we do. Having said that- if I were that person in your story- I would shout my faith from the mountain tops and tell everyone I know about this amazing man that also felt very alone in his faith, that tried to change the world he lived in, who ignored all of societies judgments and was true to himself. He came to understand that God- or Alaha (sacred unity, oneness, ultimate potential)- was within everyone and everything. That in each moment anyone- no matter their class, race, religion, or gender- could experience the kingdom God. That was something he couldn't help but share with his world. And I hope I would have the courage to do the same.

Hi Betty, Thank you so much for your comments. I, of course, did not mean to sound ageist at all. I am friends with a number of older people and find that you are right- it is often them whom have the courage to stand up for what they believe, to demand change when needed. Many of the leaders of the progressive Christian movement are in their 60's and 70's. But, you yourself said you left the church because you see no real hope of change and that is exactly the issue I am speaking of here- it seems the churches, in general are afraid of change. And church leaders are often afraid to say what they truly believe because it may sound too radical. Maybe they make the same assumptions that I did- that the older people in their church- often their financial supporters- don't want change and will leave. Maybe, if they asked, they would find that that is exactly what the "elders" want. Or maybe they will find that those who do want change have already left- like you...? Thanks again! Peace Deshna