Archive: Around Town

Dear Margaret: I have been attending church with my partner for a number of months, but for the past several weeks the sermons have felt hollow and left me feeling that a thirst has not been quenched. I’ve tried a number of organized religions over the years, a real church hopper, but have eventually left for the same reason. The problem is a) when will this thirst be satisfied once and for all, and b) I don’t want to disappoint my partner. Going to church together has been a real bonding experience for us.
Still Thirsty
 
Dear Still Thirsty:  There are those that are able to satisfy their inner hunger through organized religion, which can provide beautiful place for ritual and inspiration. Then there are those that find a distinction between religion and spirituality and are able to satisfy their thirst in many non-traditional, inter-faith spiritual formats.  Many communities provide space for this kind of development with group meditation, spiritual ceremonies, yoga, sacred music events, and more. I say “non-traditional,” but many of these practices have been traditional since the beginning of time and are centuries old in many cases. I suggest you explore some of these options as you might find the inner work which you crave satisfied in these alternative venues. As to your concern about disappointing your partner, you are making an assumption about their reaction without having disclosed it to them. This seems to be an important part of your life and one worthy of discussing with them. Relationships need to grow, expand and breathe to keep their vitality. This is too important to keep secret.

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