There has been a lot of controversy over the separation of Church and State in the United States, but let’s be very clear here. The importance of the separation of Church and State is woven into the very fabric of the United States Constitution. One of the most important elements in the founding of our democracy was to allow the free expression of religious viewpoint and belief, no matter what it may be. What this means is that our government is not allowed to impose any religious doctrine on its citizens. We are free to express ourselves and live by whatever our particular beliefs are. In other words, our government and the laws and legislation it puts forward cannot be influenced or dictated to by any religious institution, organization, or doctrine. This in no way suggests that our government seeks to suppress or reject religious and spiritual beliefs of any kind within our society. In fact, it is quite the opposite, for each individual or group is encouraged to follow their hearts and minds and be able to express themselves thus. However, the other side of the coin is that any such view or way of life is discouraged from being imposed upon any other. My friends, this is a wonderful thing, for every person, no matter who they are or what they believe, is welcome in this grand experiment called the United States of America. With an honest and accurate view of this ideology, each individual and group can be seen to benefit, and no individual or group is therefore harmed or oppressed in the establishment of these principles. A free expression is guaranteed for all. Let’s consider a couple of reminders as we proceed.
As we have discussed many times, there are still many who believe only their religious views are correct and should therefore be imposed as the only way for everyone to live their lives. My friends, this cannot work, for then the potential for freedom of expression would be removed, even for them. I understand the importance of upholding religious or spiritual values, but if they are to be truly upheld, they cannot be imposed. Perhaps we need to remember that our ideas about spirituality are indeed of an entirely private and personal nature. The good news is that within the United States today, we have every opportunity to pursue this in our lives with no interference from any governmental institution. Unfortunately, the Republican Party and the Supreme Court intend to impose, restrict, and remove the possibility of diverse expression. This goes against our very Constitution, for the establishment of true equality is at the core of its very principles. The “Church” and the “State” are seen as two separate entities and rightly so, for each has their particular role and function. Again, this is intended to ensure that each of us has the right to explore and express in our own way. We must remember that our religious beliefs, although very important to us, cannot be brought into the public arena. This includes our government and our educational institutions. We know that our public life and our private life can, and probably should be, separate matters. It’s a big world, there’s plenty of room for both! In this way, we are better able to respect one another and let each find their own way.
The extremely conservative Christian value system is what many are trying to impose today. Each of us needs to deeply consider if we want our government coming into our personal lives and space, thereby telling us what we can and cannot do. The reality, my friends, is that we have every right to do what we would like, we have a divine right to express ourselves as we see fit, as long as we do not inflict harm or control over any other. Perhaps we need to consider as well, that the ultra-conservative views of Christianity have no basis in fact, not in scripture and, most importantly, no basis in a practical and valuable implementation today. Male superiority, sexual abstinence, anti-gay, ethnic exclusivity, and religious exclusivity have no place in our society. They have no place in any religious doctrine I have ever read, either, for they cannot and will not be found. Institutionalized religion within our government’s policies and practices must be avoided if we are to establish real equality, individual expression, and a required freedom. Each of us, whether a conservative Christian or not, must be motivated by this understanding as we proceed to the polls. In order for our lives and world to work as intended, we must have a necessary love and respect for each of our fellow human beings. It is our birthright. It is our Divine Heritage.
Our values and beliefs are essential, but they need not be brought into every aspect of human living. We all seek the One Way, and have it be the only way for all, but the time is not yet!
Equality equals freedom
Separation of Church and State is a required element
All my love and support, be well