If you took the word "God" out of my vocabulary, it would change my religion not one little bit. I believe that all of us have an enormous capacity to love - to create beauty and healing in this world against all odds, against logic, and, sometimes, when we're lucky, in a way that is totally selfless. And that's what I have faith in, and what I believe God is.
When someone forgives another not once but twice, irrationally. When someone tries to understand someone different, in spite of prejudices in our society. When someone reaches out to a stranger to do something kind, even in the middle of a busy day. When someone stands by someone's side even when they have Alzheimer's and can't remember the other's name. When families work to see eye to eye, even when they disagree. When parents sacrifice for their children. When children sacrifice for their parents. When someone realizes his or her own weakness and, in spite of an inherent self-preservation instinct and general notions towards defensiveness, says "I'm sorry." When a child cries over a pet that's passed away. When people remember each other's birthdays and bake cakes and write cards. When people talk through their problems, even when it makes them want to cry. When people work everyday to make the world a better place, even when they feel they may never succeed. When people muster strength and hope that seems impossible. When people work together even when they'd rather not.
That's Love. And that's what I believe in.
"Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love." [1 John 4:8]
"Compassion is not a religious business, it is a human business." [Dalai Lama]
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