Of late, I tend to question………. Is life all that it seems?
As days are spent conforming apart from in my dreams.

Reflecting on religions.
Those stories.
Wisdom rare.
Great teachers, leaders, prophets,
What choice?
How to compare?

Why am I here?
………Good question,
I’m sorry, I don’t know.
Yet the thought has lodged within me,
It’s stuck, nowhere to go.

Why is it all that’s physical retains immense appeal?
We mention mind and spirit, yet do their depths reveal?
Then on we go…….. frenetic;
Until one day.
We pause.
Some tragedy or illness, a sudden death abhors.
Perchance at tender funeral.
A moment’s fleeting chat,
Though wary of expressions and religion that’s old hat.

Suppose that deep within us there’s a bit that carries on?
When earthly charms desert us and memories linger on.

I’ve read about religions, tried out say three or four.
Endured some lengthy sermons, sat cross legged on the floor.
One day I sat in silence, to reflect on things unseen.
I’ve watched emotive singing with words upon big screen.
There’s peace in gentle chanting in steady monotone.
Do thousands in a river sense relief as they atone?

Is there some common purpose?
Are these practices divine?
The variety is daunting, some thoughts are far from mine.

If the thread in all religions is belief in life unseen,
Of faith in loving consciousness; a spirit, light, serene.
I know, I feel you wincing. It’s invisible…… No proof.
All those interpretations, how can they all be truth?

First off then, if it’s physical of Earth or Universe.
Science offers answers in theories diverse.

What then of emotion, demeanour, hopes and fears?
The love that makes us human from cheerfulness to tears.
Facets of the spirit, intangible yet real,
Still you, the inner nature, dictating how you feel.

Religions give a glimmer, an inkling of the whole.
Each has its own perspective on love, creation, soul.
What matters is not rituals, the traditions proudly taught.
See behind bold statements, to the subtle hidden thought.

Not one has all the answers, yet they prompt a fertile mind.
To leave all that’s material and those deeper prospects find.

When assessing all they stand for, aspire to and teach.
Reflect……. observe politely.
Do they practice what they preach?
Are their motives truly loving?
Is it mission or control?
Does intention seek prosperity,
Or bring hope to errant soul?

Come up with lively questions; assess, investigate.
Suppose you ask your loved ones……….. Will they reincarnate?
What is the role of karma?
How do you benefit from sin?
Seek out the little insights that enhance your peace within.

Involve the inner nature; express, receive and share.
Seek greater understanding, no rushing here and there.

Progress through simplest living with priorities benign,
To overcome all weakness, led by consciousness divine.

For clarity of purpose, this life and realms beyond,
Try faith.
Belief in something,
Of Great Spirit or your God.

When inner thoughts are guided and deep peace within has grown.
If religions aren’t your cup of tea,
Create one of your own.