This could very possibly create a stir amongst my friends on in a divisive manner, which is not why I’m sharing this. I just feel that it’s something I’ve concluded is best for me at this juncture in my journey as a human being; and it will continue to be for the foreseeable future.

As many of you are aware, I went through several years of religious deconstruction. I posited the difficult questions and committed to rigorous self-study. While I will never ever be someone who yields to dogma of any sort, ever again, even at the peak of my spiritual odyssey, I never lost my affinity for the person of Jesus of Nazareth.

I refuse to debate over whether he was, or is, real, because that is not what I’m posting this for. Long story short, I believe that I need him in my life, not to attain salvation or to escape damnation, as I don’t believe that anyone is in danger of eternal punishment. Again, this theological topic is not up for discussion, and I will ignore any comments that try to goad me into an argument. I believe I need Jesus like someone is in need of ride-or-die friends.

I’ll never be a fundamentalist, because I believe Jesus of Nazareth cared more about people than rules; and he still does. You can call me a progressive Christian, liberal Christian, heretic, Jesus-follower, whatever; labels mean nothing to me. I’m spiritual, not religious, and I believe everyone’s path is their own, so I won’t preach at you or judge you, as long as what you do believe in or stand for isn’t intentionally harming anyone.

Now I realize there is a possibility that some folks may unfriend me on both sides of the issue; and you have to do what you have to do, and I respect that; more importantly, I respect you. I love you all, and I want you to live the life that best supports self-love, self-care, self-confidence, and self-education. Be blessed, my friends, no matter what that looks like or what conduit you choose to receive it. Thank you for your time + consideration.