Spiritualism Lesson #2 and Lesson # 3

Subject – History of Western Thought, Part 1, Lesson 2, Part 2 , Lesson 3 I considered the discoveries in science that were presented and how they relate to my own religious beliefs I believe that life has the potential to be filled with suffering. From my religious perspective, suffering is caused by clinging to things material, spiritual or sensual.  Suffering can be caused by having unrealistic expectations of the self or others. One can transcend suffering and achieve harmony within the soul if one is willing to let go of thoughts, actions and material objects that do not bring joy and balance to the Spirit. One can make the choice to see things as they really are and utilize various spiritual efforts and actions such as meditation, prayer, singing and writing to obtain right understanding, right thought, right mindfulness and right livelihood. One can, with the daily right concentration, right mindfulness and right effort continue this journey called life. One can continue to enlighten and find their right livelihood and bliss Wise men and Wise women throughout history have pursued explanations of phenomena with methodological study and conscientious devotion. Marie Curie was one such wise woman. She won two Nobel Prizes in the early 20th century, one in Physics and one in Chemistry. She was truly an amazing scientist. On page 1221 of the American Heritage College Dictionary "science" is defined as a methodological activity, discipline or study. On page 1153 of the American Heritage College Dictionary "religion" is defined as a cause or principle or an activity pursued with zeal and conscientious devotion. Science can be viewed as a religion because it is an activity that is pursued with zeal and conscientious devotion. Science searches for measurable knowledge that can be determined through taste, touch, smell, hearing or seeing. However, so far in human history science has not been able to measure that fundamental life force known as Spirit. I spent the afternoon pondering the meaning of various words such as emotion, energy, consciousness, soul and spirit. I finally concluded that it is up to each individual to determine the Paths they wish to travel. Science can be perceived as a religion and Religion can be perceived as a science. Both require observation and experimental investigation. Respectfully submitted by Rev. Susan K. Bowers