from Victoria Times Colonist – Spiritually Speaking
Are we “puppets on a string, controlled by a supernatural being?” It’s an idea many seem to hold about religious and spiritual people, so let’s explore it more deeply.
The concept of freedom is one we hold close to our hearts. “Free thought” is a cherished right and a pillar of Western society. The idea that all religious people are controlled either by an unseen God of their imagination, or by a doctrine or leader, is one of those “keyhole” views that limits our perspective on what religion is all about. And it certainly does not describe me or other people of “faith” that I know.
Many people are guided and strengthened by the principles of their religious traditions and texts. Some experience a loving presence that guards and guides them. Others, including myself, have experienced insights, revelations, healings or callings that go beyond everyday “normal” experiences. These are some of the ways we experience the presence of the Divine and the fruits of our practice; but it is far from supernatural control.
The problem with the “puppeteer” view of God is that it leads to misunderstandings about the nature of spirituality, and its transformative and healing potential for the human condition. For me, the growth of a deep trust in “something larger than myself” developed, not out of unquestioned belief, but from practical experiences – from learning to forgive, heal, and care unconditionally for others. Working with the deeper ‘truths’ of life has also helped me accomplish unseen possibilities and has resulted in a less selfish or me-oriented way of living.
When you think about it, the idea of being “puppets on a string” doesn’t just apply to religion. Our lives are fraught with influences, both hidden and obvious, that seem to manipulate or control us. Consider the influences of advertising, politics and culture. Or family history, socio-economic conditions and the forces of nature. Even the all-pervasive influence of fear. So the question, “are our thoughts and actions controlled by something beyond ourselves?” is worth asking everywhere.
Control By Others
The second assumption about being “puppets” suggests that all religious paths and leaders control their congregations. But let’s be honest: some individuals in religions do try to control their followers. Sometimes it flows from the tradition itself. But more often it stems from the human desire to control, which is rampant in the secular world as well.
At the same time, there are millions of deeply spiritual and religious people who are independent, enquiring, experience-based thinkers. Simply believing they are controlled by “their leaders” does them a vast disservice, and it’s a belief that has touched me personally. Contrary to popular misconceptions, the Christian Science church, which I belong to, does not have a governing body that dictates our thinking or decisions. Rather, it encourages thoughtful, individual prayer in making personal decisions, and a desire for an evidence-based practice of spirituality.
What is “God” Anyway?
Central to this discussion is a larger question that goes to the heart of religion and spirituality, namely: What is “God”? Is “He” an old white male on a throne in the sky, or an infinite intelligence and energy that pervades existence? Is it an outside, controlling force or the nature of Life itself; the source of all that is, or the wisdom and good within us? And is there a larger Wisdom that “guides” us (like laws in science) that compliments our free thinking, or are we simply here by ourselves?
Rather than narrowly thinking of spiritually or religiously minded people as puppets, let’s consider their insights and experiences on questions like: “What are we? Who are we? And how do we experience a better life?” Not everything can be explained in material ways.