Spiritual Literacy Month

December is Spiritual Literacy Month. What does this mean? The goal is to read one or more books about spirituality, faith, or religion. The observance was conceived to show respect to all beliefs by encouraging people to read spiritual texts from other faiths. It’s possible to be spiritual without being religious. Being spiritual means believing in a higher power without following the doctrine of any organized religion. I don’t identify with any religion. If I did, the closest one to my personal beliefs is Buddhism. I also believe Buddhism is a spiritual practice rather than a religion, but that’s my opinion.

Several years ago, I was ordained through the Universal Life Church. Many people become ordained to officiate weddings and ceremonies. This was not my goal. I wanted to further my spiritual understanding of myself. I use it as a reminder to continue pursuing a path of positivity and acceptance. I still have a long way to go on that journey. I encourage everyone to learn about another religion different from their own. Don’t listen to other’s opinions, read the information at the source. You may find that your religion is similar to many others. You may discover that all religions preach the same message.

Throwback Thursday Poetry: A Thousand Misfortunes

the Thousand Misfortunes of tortured souls
better known as demons destroying life
break strong men down ’til they’re no longer whole

Them bring you down when you are on a roll
by your side Them stay, like a loving wife
the Thousand Misfortunes of tortured souls

the men who survive have hearts black as cole
what Them do is, when faced with so much strife
break strong men down ’til they’re no longer whole

the price for freedom, none can pay the toll
Them cut through the mind.  a well sharpened knife!
the Thousand Misfortunes of tortured souls

lost all dreams as they plummet down the hole
what is it Them do that keeps Them so blithe
break strong men down ’til they’re no longer whole

to conquer all Passengers, that’s the goal
Thems purpose for all this, none can deciph’
the Thousand Misfortunes of tortured souls
break strong men down ’til they’re no longer whole

Early poetry from James. From the poetry collection Pariah Bound: The Lonesome Poetry.