I think part of the problem that a lot of individuals have with seeing the spiritual side of ecology/ecofeminism/the universe in general is because Judeo Christian teachings seem to focus more on the salvation aspect of the religion rather than on spirituality itself. So much of western culture is wrapped up in JC ideology - whether we call ourselves Christians or not, and, at least from my own experience, it is hard to believe or trust any other form of god/dess. Christianity seems more of a religion based on rules, a prescribed doctrine, what one can/not do with their lives. And as a culture, this guilt is engrained in us. God/dess worship is not a matter of being "saved" - for me, it is more of a journey through life and discovery. But, it took me years after being a Christian to even BEGIN to understand and accept this as possibility. It's hard to shake years of socialization. Even now, while I consider myself very spiritual and always have, I occassionally lapse into periods of guilt and fear that I need to be saved, or else! Oh, and by the way. if any of you out there are Christians - I'm NOT trying to start a flame war against your belief system. I know many Christians who are wonderful, spiritual beings - and who are not living lives focused on guilt and judgement. This was just my personal experience :) Christianity can be a beautiful form of spiritual expression and growth - and often is. Tj.
