The Buddha, Baptism and Boudicca

I harmonize with several different spiritual communities, ranging from multi-denominational churches, First Nations ceremonies, Buddhism, Confucianism, etc. My philosophy on spirituality is that each of us must only practice what feels right. I believe there is validity in all forms of religion and I feel compelled to combine methods, rituals, and teachings from each to fulfill my own spiritual quest.

I must admit: it feels very intimidating to share this part of myself. I was raised as an Anglican (loosely, albeit) and while I don't believe anyone who sincerely knows me would be surprised, I feel awkward stating that I am not entirely fulfilled by the church. I attend services in my hometown to this day, and genuinely love the camaraderie that goes along with a community where people wish each other peace and sing collectively. I have received generous support throughout my whole life from this community and have met lovely people. I believe in the power of belief.

And I'll take this moment to say once again that I believe everyone has a duty to follow their heart where spirituality is concerned.  To be honest, I have often observed that people seem to be bred into a religion that becomes ingrained out of habit and not necessarily out of true feeling.  I’m not making a judgment about anyone’s spiritual beliefs, but this is mostly born out of my own curiosity.  My whole life I have looked to other people to see what they seemed to experience in their faith.  I know several people who are so strong in their beliefs that they live their life devoted to their religion.  I respect this when the message is accepting of others.

I am curious though… If humans were not taught religion, but governed their own spirituality strictly on feeling, I wonder what would happen? Would God or the Buddha have a name? And what is the significance of a name? Can a being not worship the energy that brought them life without labeling it? 

I'll give an example. My daughter. Her existence means everything to me. It is customary to baptize her into the Anglican faith and at times, I am tempted to go down that path. But I have witnessed several baptisms, and it doesn't feel exactly right for us to baptize Boudicca into God’s care specifically. On the other hand, I love the idea of the ritual and there are several similar practices found in other religions. I feel it necessary to then have a Universal baptism for her- to celebrate her life while uniting her with appointed 'spiritual guides'. I have selected several people to make up a 'council' for my child. Each member brings a different background and will provide Bu with a well-rounded perspective. I have not asked these people yet, but when it feels right, the celebration will take place.

Richard is very patient with me and my self-proclaimed hokey ideas. The idea of the council came about soon after my cancer diagnosis. I wanted a council of women to be her guides in the event of my passing. I have diverse circles of people in my life, and I love the idea of Bu learning from the people closest to me. They are women who have guided me, and therefore are very appropriate to guide my daughter. I even have a romanticized image similar to that of a movie, where the council may be summoned at various points in Boudicca's life to support her.  I want to provide an open spiritual path for her and expose her to several religions so that she will feel equipped to make the right choice for herself. 

Anyway, the point is that through my own experiences and in my own way, I show gratitude for life. My appreciation for all forms of life deepens each day. And personally, however life came to be feels irrelevant mostly. I am definitely at peace to have a general understanding and just go forth with celebrating. For me, getting hung up on defining that which gives life is simply not the point of living. 

What I believe to be truly important is that we allow each other to embrace our own spiritual evolution.