4/17/02
The Spiritual Chicks^SM Speak Out!
Is it OK to get depressed?

Of course it is.  We are physical, mental and spiritual beings all at the same time, so it’s only natural to get depressed from time to time.  Sometimes we get confused and think that the spiritual path is different from the human path and we have to do something extraordinary to get on it.  But it’s not and we don’t.  The spiritual path and the human path are the same exact path, and we’re always on it, because there is nothing but God.  When we begin to wake up to the idea that everything and everyone is spiritual, not just "good" things or "good" people, our old concepts try to hijack us, and we can get depressed as a result.   

Let’s remember that for any of us who were even minimally exposed to Judeo-Christian mythology and morality, many of these terrorizing concepts are based on an irrational story of a judgmental, angry and jealous God who created all of humanity, but only reserves places in heaven for his chosen people.  Who are these chosen people?  The answer depends on what religion you are.  For Jews it’s the Jews; for Catholics, there’s no salvation outside the Mother Church; for Evangelical Protestants, Jesus is the only way to God; for Muslims, infidels abound.  Don’t think this story has any power in today’s modern world?  Turn on the evening news tonight and watch the world’s "chosen people" duke it out.  If this isn’t depressing, nothing is.  But what’s most depressing is that we’ve internalized the "chosen people" concept whether we know it or not.  Why else would it matter where we went to college, how much money we make, or where we live?  Our crazy and ancient fear of the consequences of not being chosen, of being out of favor, out of step, or out of line makes us doubt the validity of applying the One Life Principle to everyday life.  

What’s the solution when the old story gets the better of you and you feel sad, depressed or in pain?  Begin by loving yourself for the magnificent rebel that you are.  Then, write a new story with you---not that judgmental old God---in the starring role.  Create your own heaven, but don’t forget to let everyone in.  If there’s only one God, then there’s only One Life and we’re all chosen people.