Institute for Human Authenticity

Freedom of religion also means freedom from religion. In the United States, the separation of church and state exists to ensure that no one can impose their religious beliefs on others. This separation allows people to freely choose their religion, or not to choose one at all. Not choosing a religion is also an expression of this freedom.

One of the first things that helped me in my early recovery was realizing that my relationship with God, whom I choose to call my Higher Power, is personal. I do not need the approval or acceptance of others for my beliefs. It is a Higher Power of my understanding, and I can guarantee that I wouldn’t be sane or sober if I had to follow a god of my misunderstanding. My understanding is constantly evolving, and I choose to keep my Higher Power anonymous.

If our country were governed by religion, we would lose the freedom to live authentically, to explore, and to make personal choices based on our own truth.

Freedom of religion is important and cannot be abused to punish or alienate those who believe differently. The Founding Fathers rejected the “Divine Right of Kings,” which claimed rulers were appointed by God. Instead, they were influenced by Enlightenment ideals that emphasized reason and individual rights. This is why the Constitution includes the separation of church and state.

Making laws based on religious beliefs is dangerous. Some reading this may feel I’m singling out Christians who claim this is a Christian country. I encourage anyone to look at other nations where religious freedom is nonexistent: women have no rights and are treated as second-class citizens, LGBTQ people are imprisoned or executed, and those of different faiths must practice in secret or face public stoning.

True freedom means allowing people to make choices for themselves. In the rooms of recovery, I’ve kept my religion anonymous, but now I feel it’s time to reveal it publicly—to do my part in ensuring that our country continues to evolve in its definition of freedom.

My religion is Love. Unconditional love that allows others to make their own choices while accepting the choices of others as their own. Love gives people the space to live independently while supporting one another and working together to ensure that this freedom is available to everyone, equally.

Vote for choice. Vote for freedom of religion and freedom from religion. Vote for equality. Vote for love.

Wow! What an awesome first night of the Make Amends With Your Muse Program: Reclaiming Your Creativity In Recovery. I had a feeling it was going to be good, but I am overjoyed with the enthusiasm of the group! There is still time to join us in this 3-month program if you join before our next meeting, Monday, August 22nd. Send me a message and visit www.mysuccess.coach/calendar and book a complimentary session with me this week!