Do you ever feel "in the closet" about your atheism/agnostic views?

[CoffeeCat]

72. Great point---Religious vs. Spiritual

I find myself feeling that there is a big distinction--for me anyway--between being religious and being
spiritual. I feel spiritual. I sense my own spirituality and that there is more to me than just my
body. However, I don't feel religious. I tend to recoil at the concept and the experience of it.

I don't need to be told what to think and what to believe--especially when these concepts are "faith-based"
they are not rooted in science or anything that you can verify. It's faith. I find that being asked to adopt
and accept without question--numerous beliefs, stories and opinions--is counter to my basic make-up.

I love science. I have always been curious. I love to question. I love how Carl Sagan thinks. To be
on this planet and to believe that you KNOW FOR CERTAIN the answers to questions that we can't
possibly know--seems odd to me.

I sense that most religion inhibits true spirituality, self actualization and the fullest expression of
our humanity. That's my experience. It's not true for everyone. I saw a Facebook friend comment
on how when she ran she felt closer to God, and that she listened to her religious music and that it
gave her such a lift. I thought that was cool. I run as well and I listen to Lady Gaga or other funky
tunes--and I get the same high. It lifts me up. People can get to that place in many different ways.

What bothers me is that many religions and religious people are not open to the fact that differing
viewpoints (or no religion at all) is ok and valid. They detest you. That's what I reject about
religion. It seems to tap into the dark side of humanity--in many instances. Closed-mindedness, fear,
harsh judgment, etc.--seem to be the enemies of spirituality.

I'm rambling I'm sure--but maybe others can relate. Or not. heh