RE: My spirituality in three stories by Sylvia

Thanks to Ruben for surfacing this lovely post, and for his own thoughtful addition. Sylvia's journey from church upbringing to "nature as spirituality" mirrors my own path somewhat. Church I think I've always been an atheist; I never really believed in the teachings of the Catholic Church, even as a young child. Too inquisitive and stubborn and faced with too little evidence meant "blind faith" was off the table. Apologies to God, if you're real, for the lies I told during my confirmation. Anyway, without the threat of Hell or the promise of Heaven, I am free to pursue a good life in my own image; with, arguably, more "Christian" values than a lot of Christians. I believe everyone and everything should be treated equally and humans aren't top of any pyramid entitled to exploit the world because of our special relationship with the Almighty. It's reductionist to look at all the great wonders of our world, nod, and go "yep, beardy white guy made this in a week" with utter conviction.…