In today’s consumer-oriented society, people tend to have many wishes. A wish, at its core, is an expression of dissatisfaction with the present moment. The mind says: “If only I had this or that, then I would be happy.” Not long ago, I spoke with someone who suffers from severe depression. There was one gnawing “problem” that caused his thoughts to circle endlessly around itself, to the point that he said: “I would give all my money if only I didn’t have this problem.” And this is how it happens that people who suffer deeply begin to see only themselves. In this sense, depression can be understood as an extreme narrowing of awareness — everything revolves around the self and its pain. Why do I mention this? Because I have noticed that many people in our society — especially those who suffer in this way — lack gratitude. Everything else becomes more important as long as it concerns the beloved “me.” The wishes never end — and where is gratitude? It is forgotten, because we are so accustomed to having everything available. Because we believe that the outer world must serve us, that we are entitled to certain things because we have “earned” them. And if I deserve it — why should I still be grateful? In doing so, we forget something essential: God. And when we forget God, we forget ourselves. Yet every single day there is so much to be grateful for. For the farmer and the cows that produce the milk for my cocoa. For the farmers who grow the cocoa itself. For all the people who were needed to invent glass, to produce the cup, to light the candle that illuminates the room. For all the people who made it possible for me to type these words on a keyboard — and for the people in the Spiritual Rebels group, spread across the globe, who may read them later. Truly — wow. What gratitude. “Father, I thank You for everything You have given me — for the beautiful moments, but also for the challenges, suffering, and worries, which in truth bring me closer to You. Thank You for the gift of life and for giving me the possibility to enter Your eternity.

Sher your thoughts

Greetings, family! I was curious to know if anyone else here has broken free from religious programming? I was raised United Pentecost and I have worked for 25 years to de-program myself from the Christian dogma and fearful mindset that was fed to me daily in my young years. I can now say that I view Jesus and the Bible in a light and understanding that the church fears. So, anyone else? 😊