Book discoveries...

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 Like you, I am an avid reader. Books serve a vital purpose and that is a conversation we can enjoy over a cup of tea or just "hanging out." While exploring a Buddhist perspective on belief, tradition and secular Buddhism I came across this book, "The Novice" by Stephen Schettini. 

Working towards adulthood in the sixties and seventies unrest was growing. Politics, the Vietnam War, civil unrest. Great division and the lack of uniting answers. The ability to ask questions and seek answers, a growing phenomenon where followers were being replaced by explorers. The ongoing quest for understanding the conflicts of life, generations spirituality. The newest generation thought; “Morality is doing what’s right regardless of what you’re told. Obedience is doing what you’re told regardless of what’s right.” (Noah Rasheta) 

Buddhism began to flourish in Europe before it began to spread into the American west coast. Students went east. 

The "Jesus Movement" began to flourish drawing many who sought the enlightenment of being "born again."

The Novice, the pathway of exploring Buddhism, was mirrored by the many who explored Christianity. I sought to learn the depths of spirituality within a Pentecostal group, a growing sector with a focus on healing, speaking in tongues, gifts of the Spirit, the casting out of demons with long periods of fasting.  The movement spread into Business Gospel Meetings, churches of varying faiths and summer "Big Time Gospel" meetings. Planting the seed within churches with appointed ministers licensed by the various states was underway. Raising money to support the effort was ongoing. 

The Pentecost was spreading. 

In study and observation, experience  and time, “When a wise man does not understand, he says: "I do not understand." The fool and the uncultured are ashamed of their ignorance. They remain silent when a question could bring them wisdom.” FH the Godmakers

Within the structure when cracks seem apparent it's understandable when questions are asked. For an answer to be, "You are in God's army. You don't ask questions. You follow God's orders," some salute and march on. 

Like the author of The Novice, I moved on. Employment. Getting married. Having children. Continued adjustment. The experience left an impact. 

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