I was putting the littlest into her car seat today and a man behind me yelled out , “have a blessed day Ma’am ” and I was a little startled because I didn’t know him and because I’m wary of strangers around the kids. It only took a moment to get over that and I smiled and wished him “thank you, same to you”

Driving home I began thinking about my faith and beliefs. I was brought up going to a Protestant Church of Scotland and the minister was to be revered and feared. Church playgroup was fun , but sitting inside the main old musty church,  wriggling in an uncomfortable dress , trying to be quiet for the longest hour of my week was unbearable. Even the hymns were boring and bland to me. In actuality looking back , they are pretty words just with music that doesn’t appeal to me. Now if it had been gospel and happy , clappy…..or disco, yes a flashing mirrored ball above the minister, and him busting a move like John Travolta ( see that’s where my head went during services)

Old ladies with big hats and purses with peppermints, lace hankie and their collection money in a little brown envelope stared at me , daring me to move again.

I haven’t attended church since I was about 18 years old , even being asked to leave my joined church by my minister for non attendance ( and in turn , non contributions).

Throughout my adult life I have drifted in and out of my faith,  but continued to believe there is a higher entity looking over me. At least I hope there is.

I took a job at a local SDA hospital and they expected me to pray with the patients.  I don’t know how to say a prayer out loud as that wasn’t our way ,so I asked in orientation about this and the answer was “Google one”! Really, wow. So I did.

When I had surgery in that very same hospital last year they asked pre anesthesia if I’d like a prayer said for me  I waited for my google prayer but what I got was heartfelt , sincere words of love and warmth. Last thing I heard before the dizzying gases entered me.

I am a little envious of those with strong faith who attend church as they have their community and circle but I’m happier staying home and believing in my own way. I am of the mind that you don’t have to attend church to believe in your God and worship

When asked if I follow a religion, my answer is that we follow Christian values, after all,  it’s just about being a good person and kind to others, right? Treat others as you would have them treat you.

There was a comedian on tv years ago whose sign off was “may your God bless you and keep you safe” . That makes perfect sense to me, opening your heart to all religions.

Dont stop believing! Journey would be disappointed.