In God we trust ... [or do we?]

Now this may seem a little deep or meaningful however lets think of it like fashion to lighten the mood ... Fashion being a religion.

To begin with I feel it is important to address the meaning of the word 'religion'. Although not the most reliable source for definitions, I have chosen to take a quote from Wikipedia - Wikipedia, like religions, is a collection of views or opinions on a subject (rather fitting then really).

"Religion is a collection of cultural systems, belief systems, and worldviews that establishes symbols that relate humanity to spiritualityand, sometimes, to moral values. Many religions have narratives, symbols, traditions and sacred histories that are intended to givemeaning to life or to explain the origin of life or the universe. They tend to derive morality, ethics, religious laws or a preferred lifestylefrom their ideas about the cosmos and human nature."

On Sunday I went to a family Christening of a new member into the extended family. This experience has left my already negative view on the 'faith' even more down trodden. I have always been cynical and bitter of religion from an early age. I am do not like to be told what to do. Start with being Christened. I was Christened shortly after birth. I strongly disagreed with this 'dunking' of a child under water that has been 'blessed' or 'offered'. My dismay at the blessing is predominately down to the fact that the child being sacrificed into another extended family (God's family) is that is it not only against their will as they are too young to object, but it is also irreversible. In the literal sense, and if you grow up to not believe or follow a religion, it has no effect. However if you are doubtful and fearful the Christening will play on your guilty emotions for the rest of your life [or until sense kicks in].

So, while sitting there in the grandeur of the state paid church, combined with guilt tripping begging as funding, I wondered to myself how thousands of years of tradition, with no true confirmation that what people were putting their undivided attention and trust in, managed to continue.

Then suddenly is dawned on me. The guilt and fear alone wasn't enough, but the continued guilt and fear driven by parents, grandparents and members of the congregation. The driving force of guilt and fear in the unknown is what keeps this highly lucrative 'venture' moving forward.

Tomorrow's religion will never die.