Third Declaration of Principles- We believe that a correct understanding of such expression [Infinite Intelligence or God] and living in accordance therewith, constitute true religion. (True religion is living in obedience to Nature's Laws.)
Just when I thought religion was out of style or fashion, I found a thought provoking definition: re•li•gion. a noun that is a pursuit or interest to which someone ascribes supreme importance - "consumerism is the new religion." Religion is live and well!
Joseph P. Whitwell, Third National Spiritualist Association of Churches (NSAC) President, offered his view of the third principle by stating, "a correct understanding of the laws of nature on the physical, mental and spiritual planes of life and living in accordance therewith will unfold the highest aspirations and attributes of the Soul, which is the correct function of True Religion."
There is no single way of life that meets all of our needs which has resulted in many religions. We are incurably religious in the normal and natural development. Maintaining health, pursuing identity and autonomy, yearning for excellence, connecting to others are all indicative of the universal human tendency. The highest forms of religion embrace certain simple primitive qualities. Those human instincts that work toward mutual aid and binds us together into a sort of cable of purpose form a strong religious base. It is easy to agree upon the chief elements that we desire and seek to possess: kindliness, conscience. gentleness and reverence such as the reverence one has for a child that forbids cruelty. The world needs a religion humane enough to match its great science, a religion vital enough to give a higher motive power than fear or greed of gain.
Whatever your views may be of God or religion, most will agree that there is a tug within us to achieve, engage and experience something or relate to someone on a level that takes us to a deeper understanding of ourselves. The quest to comprehend or discover answers to the unsolvable mysteries and indescribable wonders call us to openness to what is and can be. Through time and effort we need only look to nature and the laws by which it operates and realize we too are guided by the same forces. We can bend with these forces in growth or in some cases break if we stay too closed or rigid to the winds of change. Louisa May Alcott gave us a clue when she said, "Far away in the sunshine are my highest aspirations. I may not reach them, but I can look up and see their beauty, believe in them, and try to follow where they lead."
Study the Natural Laws and discern within their order clues to aid you in your quest to know.
