I’m a fool. Truly, I am. I still have the “habit of religion” stuck in my soul. Proof positive of that was my reaction to the Driscoll video. I still think it’s funny, but I do see everyone’s point about a Rabbi teaching the OT.
I read this today, and it was like someone slapped me or knocked me upside the head:
After this post from the other day, I got some responses that seemed to say, “We’re glad you’re back!” But I’m not back. I haven’t returned the same man. Even though I sensed a strong recall of what I’m to be doing: inviting people to freedom, and once they’re there or on the way, to work to provide a community where this freedom is not jeopardized. And this, I’ve come to experience and know, is rare as hen’s teeth!
You see, once I’d seen the dark side of organized religion and managed spirituality, I would be a fool to go back into it the same way. I have seen the dark side… many times. I could solve it personally by retreating into the solitary life of a hermit. And believe me, I’ve been seriously tempted. But that’s not my task. My task is to do what I said above, and that requires community. How can people be free and also love others? Is it possible for a liberated person to commit themselves to others? Is it possible to be a free person as well as a part of a group or even society? Is it possible to be free as well as responsible? Is it possible to be free and married? Is it possible to be free and have children? Is it possible to be a child and be free? Is it possible to be free at all in community? These are serious questions that must be asked by communities and their so-called “leaders” everywhere, never mind religious ones. But nobody seems to be asking them.
It seems I have returned as the same woman. Dammit! I want to be different. But the old way comes out so easily.
The questions nakedpastor has asked resonate in my head.
But the biggest question I have to ask… Is it truly possible to change?
