For some people religion can be a source of comfort and support. Often times it can induce feelings of anxiety, frustration, and disappointment. Why this disparity??
One reason may be that as children we didn't have a choice to attend church or not. It may have been more or less imposed on us. Most of us were expected to believe and adhere to the faith of our parents.
However, as we become older and more autonomous, we may start to question whether a certain religion we were raised in is right for us as an adult. This can be very unsettling if a person starts to doubt issues that were assumed to be "truth". The more rigid and punitive the religion, the more difficult it might be to break away. There may not be a lot of room for questioning those who are in charge if strict obedience is expected. And in some cases, family members may disown the individual who has left the "fold" or congregation. This can be especially depressing and disheartening.
It appears that as we on our own journey, two factors are critical if we are to continue to grow. One is to be true to ourselves, and to listen to that inner voice that tells us what is right for us. The other factor is to take responsibility for the choices we do make in order to bring positive change for ourselves.
Sometimes people leave constricting childhood religious for a broader more expansive form of spirituality. This might include spending time in nature and with animals, reading inspirational books, meditating, or practicing yoga. Actually, whenever we feel inspired we are tapping into our own essence of spirituality and aliveness. Whatever form our spirituality takes, it should be liberating and feel right for us.
If you are struggling with any of these issues, you need not do it alone. Psychotherapy can be a fine tool in exploring one's spirituality and growth.
