Following a very minor surgical procedure, there was a very long night, in the middle of which I watched the film adaptation of Andrew Lloyd Webber's 1970 rock opera, the iconic Jesus Christ Superstar. Having seen the stage adaptation decades ago, I recalled the almost-humorous stylizing of the very well known classic story into the language, music, and clothes of my generation, and I appreciated that very much. But, another thing happened -- religion became technicolor for me.
My travels through religion have added greatly to the tapestry of my own faith. I have many Catholic and Jewish friends. Two Shiite Muslims have even stayed in my home before. For many decades, I've worn a small bronze medallion around my neck given to me by a Buddhist priest. The worst hangover of my life followed an all-night drinking bout with a Shintoist priest. The kindest soul I ever met was a tiny Quaker lady. My tapestry is rich and nuanced indeed, for which I am grateful.
Early in this journey, I tried to absorb dogma of other religions but came to believe there was too much emphasis on form, instead of substance. I rejected the notion that any omniscient God would care so much about trivialities. I came to believe in the universality of frightened people trying to find some meaning for life and some reward for its tribulations. Religion offers an elegant vehicle for that.
So, thank you Andrew Lloyd Webber. I suppose I should also thank the doctor for doing the minor procedure, for keeping me up all night, and for allowing me the opportunity to remember how truly blessed I am!
My travels through religion have added greatly to the tapestry of my own faith. I have many Catholic and Jewish friends. Two Shiite Muslims have even stayed in my home before. For many decades, I've worn a small bronze medallion around my neck given to me by a Buddhist priest. The worst hangover of my life followed an all-night drinking bout with a Shintoist priest. The kindest soul I ever met was a tiny Quaker lady. My tapestry is rich and nuanced indeed, for which I am grateful.
Early in this journey, I tried to absorb dogma of other religions but came to believe there was too much emphasis on form, instead of substance. I rejected the notion that any omniscient God would care so much about trivialities. I came to believe in the universality of frightened people trying to find some meaning for life and some reward for its tribulations. Religion offers an elegant vehicle for that.
So, thank you Andrew Lloyd Webber. I suppose I should also thank the doctor for doing the minor procedure, for keeping me up all night, and for allowing me the opportunity to remember how truly blessed I am!
