Will -

I'm so very sorry that your experience of religion/spirituality has been an unpleasant one. That is not how it should be for anyone.

I, too, like you, was born and raised a Catholic. In my twenties, I left that faith, and studied every major religion and spiritual belief on record. Eventually, I came back to Catholicism with a new perspective...that I was born into this world, in this life, this time, as a Catholic, and I have found peace with it.

However, I do not push my beliefs on others. I believe God comes to us as we believe God to be. If we are Christian, through Jesus; Jewish, through Moses, Buddhist? Obviously, through Buddha, and so forth.

The Truth is, for me, and for many, God=Love, and Love=God. And if one believes in Love, then they automatically believe in God, even if they don't think they do.

With all that said, loving-kindness, compassion, and understanding and respect for all good beliefs is essential if we are all to get along in this world.

As far as I can tell, and after studying every major religion for over 4 decades, the true God of Love in Heaven doesn't give a flying fig what religious or spiritual path we are on...as long as we love.

With your numerous gifts, Will, you have accomplished much in the world, and touch countless lives.

I pray, if I may, that you find the peace that you so truly and richly deserve...in return for bringing so much joy and happiness - and Love - into the world through your work and very existence.

HJ