It’s a statement that’s often heard: “I’m spiritual but not religious.” When reading publications on spirituality written by followers of various religions, the discussion of the phrase “spiritual but not religious” is often viewed as confusing and conveys something of an insult toward those who follow a religious tradition. Conversely,… Read More »Spiritual but Not Religious
It happened in Europe after World War I. The continent was in shambles. The Western world faced depression. The people remembered: in France, Italy, Germany, and England, the troops all went to war with the blessing of clergy and the nationalistic belief: God is on our side! But in the… Read More »What Would It Be Like?
It was a curious comment. While I didn’t disagree with it, I was struck by it because it seemed out of context from anything else. The emailed comment simply said: “Finished reading a booklet … on Christianity and Islam. Very basic and does not get into a lot of issues… Read More »The Children of Abraham and the Government
Saturday morning. After an hour-long aerobic workout, I jumped into the shower feeling very much awake and alive. Refreshed from the shower, I sat at the kitchen counter and peeled one of the special oranges shipped from a Florida grove. The juice ran over my hands as I pulled back… Read More »The Real Thing
“Discover a diverse modern metropolis steeped in unique blends of Eastern and Western traditions – only Hong Kong!” So claims the website of the Hong Kong Tourist Board. My recent visit to Hong Kong introduced me to a very modern metropolis with a more developed infrastructure than any major city… Read More »Hong Kong: A Unique Blend Woven into a Tapestry
It was 1975. In a classroom with about three dozen college freshman, a simple question was asked: do the means justify the ends? Morally, does achieving a result that is good allow an individual to do anything it takes to achieve that good result? Is it moral to kill people… Read More »A Means to an End
Dear Bill: From the years when you hosted a show on network TV, I’ve respected your commentary and insight. You’ve provided clear, objective critique of political issues and maintained a good sense of humor in the process. Your positions are generally well informed and demonstrate critical thought. Given that your… Read More »An Open Letter to Bill Maher
I’m sometimes asked about my belief in God. It’s difficult to respond to questions about how or why I believe in a life-creating and life-sustaining presence which somehow is greater than my imagination. I can’t prove the existence of God – nor do I particularly want to. My faith is… Read More »My Belief in God
