Religion and Life Transformation: Personal Experiences and Insights

Religion often shapes the way we live, think, and interact with the world around us. However, it’s not always a straightforward journey into a new realm. Sometimes, it’s a gradual evolution, and other times, it can be a complete departure. In this article, I share my personal experiences and insights on how religion has transformed my life, and the importance of self-discipline in navigating these changes.

Transformation Through Religion: A Personal Journey

Did you have to change your life before you started following a religion? Do you believe in religion?

Mm… yes and no. Which is to say my life has changed as I have learned more. And there were some things I used to do that I quit doing, but that was before I really could be said to be a part of Jehovah’s Witnesses. I have had no real pressure to change; suggestions, yes, but no pressure. We are reminded collectively as to what our goals are such as modesty, cleanliness, good study habits, and kindness to others. But it’s not like there is a daily schedule for everyone to follow and a uniform to wear or anything.

However, I still have people I knew before I got baptized in my life. They don’t go to meetings, and I don’t celebrate holidays or go to some of the kinds of events they go to, so we don’t spend as much time with each other. It’s true that when you start something, it’s an action. It is a change. The very nature of doing anything new is going to change your life. But it...

Understanding Religion: From Kindergarten to University

Most of us are not born into a religion. We are born into a culture, community, and family that shape our beliefs and practices. We are often taught about our religion as a child, similar to how we learn the ABCs in kindergarten. It is a foundational education that teaches us about God. It is essential to recognize that all religions are good, and we should believe in them. However, if we wish to progress on this path, we must evolve from religion to spirituality.

It is the other way around. You start to embrace a religion and its principles, and that will shape the way you live. One cannot change his eating habits before adapting to a new place. It is similar.

Consider my own experience. I grew up Lutheran. When I was 16, I told my mom, 'I don’t know much about religion, but I do know I am a male, her son, and Lutheran….' She smiled. Now, at 72, I have been associated with a total of seven religions/denominations over the years. Several I was very involved in, such as men's groups, church boards, prison ministries, and church planting. In one of these denominations, there was an anti-alcohol stance, which I agreed to align my behaviors with.

Loyalty, Self-Discipline, and Transition

I even taught the doctrines of several of these denominations, much like I would teach my employer's stance on topics. I felt I was a loyal employee/participant and felt there was great utility in aligning my behaviors with that outreach, just like with an employer and their product or service.

As I reflect on my experiences, I see the tremendous benefits of learning self-discipline, especially when transitioning from one lifestyle to another. For instance, my third son dropped out of college, went into active Army duty in Afghanistan, and returned to college. He told me later that college was 'a breeze' when he returned since he had all the added self-discipline, even more than needed in college. As a result, his career is also accelerated.

So changing your life is most often a very needed and good thing, even if only temporarily. And that is because self-discipline, the ability to deliberately change and adapt, is a highly valuable life skill.

Conclusion

In conclusion, religion can profoundly impact your life, but the impact can be gradual or significant. Understanding religion is integral to understanding spirituality and personal growth. Self-discipline, a critical life skill, is necessary to navigate these changes effectively. Whether through transition or evolution, religion can play a role in shaping your life for the better.