In this article, it’s important to clarify that I’m not an expert in this field; I’m simply an ordinary individual, much like yourself, with similar concerns and questions. My approach is driven by an open mind and a continuous quest for extracting life lessons from various experiences. By sharing my thoughts and words here, I hope that they may offer some guidance to anyone who, like me, has grappled with the matters I discuss below. It’s essential to approach this content with a critical mind, take what resonates with you, and apply it to your unique circumstances.

Some words about the article

In crafting this article, it’s essential to clarify that my intention is not to endorse any particular religious doctrine or denomination. I am not a theologian, and, truth be told, I haven’t delved into the pages of any holy book, including the one associated with my own faith. Instead, I aim to delve into an alternative dimension of religion — a personal exploration of my thoughts and emotions surrounding it, and how I leverage it for personal growth. Another motive behind this piece is to extend a helping hand to those who may have encountered negative experiences with representatives and ideologies of religion. My hope is to encourage them to move beyond resentment, viewing religion not as a restrictive doctrine but as a nuanced and evolving framework for thought and self-improvement.


Given my upbringing as a Christian, I will draw upon this personal experience to illustrate the concepts discussed in this article. While my reflections may be rooted in Christian teachings, it’s important to recognize that the principles explored are applicable across various religious traditions. The aim is not to prescribe a specific faith but to highlight the broader potential for personal growth that can be found within the context of religious beliefs. Through this lens, I hope to offer insights that resonate with individuals from diverse backgrounds, fostering a universal understanding of how religious perspectives can contribute to becoming a better person.

Religion representatives and their dark rules

In the journey of religious exploration, a critical challenge arises with the individuals chosen as representatives of faith traditions. Some appoint themselves as architects of dark and medieval rules, detached from the teachings of figures like Jesus. These rules, devised for manipulation, create unnecessary constraints that divert from the genuine spiritual path.

Often, those enforcing these rules not only fail to follow them but engage in unethical practices behind the scenes. The disconnect between such rules and the teachings of love and acceptance, as exemplified by Jesus, becomes glaring. Embracing a spiritual realm focused on love and acceptance can serve as a transformative catalyst, inspiring individuals to strive for a better version of themselves.

It is regrettable that such misinterpretations often drive people away from the essence of religion, God, and love, rather than drawing them closer.

Not all of them are the same

One of the most significant and personally cherished figures in my religious tradition is Christodoulos, the former Archbishop of Athens and All Greece. To delve deeper into his impactful legacy, you can watch the following video:

Unfortunately, I couldn’t locate a version of the video with English subtitles. However, I’ve compiled some key highlights and insights from his speeches for your reference:

God’s love embraces you just as you are, whether you’re in pants, a short skirt, or adorned with earrings. and tattoos.

You are the backbone of our society. Many have rebelled to change the world, but we will rebel by changing ourselves first, breathing life and strength into the world.


One day, I overheard a student expressing, “I like Christodoulos.” To this, I couldn’t help but respond, “Well, my friends, I like each of you too, just as our God does!”

These are the figures from whom we can glean lessons in kindness, fostering growth and progress rather than seeking to control or manipulate others. Interestingly, representatives of this nature often find themselves met with resistance, as their approach challenges established systems.

Filtering before following


Exercise your own judgment before adhering to religious rules. However, it’s important to recognize that the intended meaning of a command can significantly differ from how your mind interprets it. When encountering rules or statements to follow, engage in a thoughtful filtering process. Extract and embrace only those that resonate with you and align with your vision of becoming a better person.

My thoughts about religion

I draw inspiration from the exemplary life of Jesus as a model of extraordinary humility. He bestowed love upon children and embraced individuals typically judged by society, treating each with compassion and understanding. His actions resonate with the essence of religion for me – a guide to becoming a better person. Following the blueprint of Jesus Christ’s character encourages kindness and selflessness. While reaching the pinnacle of his humanity may seem nearly impossible, taking small steps towards embodying his virtues can lead to significant improvements in our society. To me, Jesus is a guiding figure who leads by example, and this is what religion means to me.

Some words about pray


Language holds a unique energy. Engaging in negativity, through gossip or toxic thoughts, proves to be self-destructive. On the contrary, offering prayers for improved circumstances, the well-being of loved ones, and seeking strength from the universe to navigate challenges has been instrumental in dispelling negative thoughts. This practice not only fills me with positive vibes and energy but also serves as a profound reminder of my faith. By looking to Jesus as a guiding example, I find the motivation to shape into someone better and maintain clarity in times of uncertainty.

Epilogue

Over the years, I’ve observed numerous individuals faithfully attending church every Sunday, diligently adhering to religious fasting and following all the prescribed rules. Yet, once the religious rituals are complete, some engage in gossip, use profanity, and contribute negatively to society. There seems to be a misconception that strict adherence to these rituals serves as an antidote for any wrongdoings.

It becomes evident that the true measure of one’s commitment to their faith lies not in the frequency of church attendance or adherence to dietary restrictions but in their actions outside the religious setting. It’s not about how many times you sit in a pew but about the positive impact you create for those beyond the church walls. Similarly, the significance is not solely in what you consume during religious fasting but in the words that come out of your mouth—avoiding negativity, gossip, and profanity. The essence of a religious practice extends beyond rituals to encompass the ethical choices we make in our daily interactions with others.