The Forest from the Trees

The Greek philosopher Socrates once stated "the unexamined life is not worth living." These are words that should cause us all to pause. After all what is it that makes you, you. Is it your work or perhaps your family and close relationships? Some might identify their possessions, position and accomplishments. Maybe it would be those ideals and people that you would be willing to risk your life to protect. Beyond doubt your beliefs about God and the afterlife should be included in this mix. But how often do we stop and examine these qualities in our life. Many years ago I was talking to a good friend. We had been discussing some differences in our beliefs about how life came about. Finally, he made the comment that I believed the way I do because that is the way I was raised. In all honesty, I had to admit that there was some truth to that statement and that did not sit well with me. I did not want my core beliefs to be based on the way I was raised but on the truth. His one simple comment almost 30 years ago challenged me as perhaps nothing ever has in my life. This book is about examining our beliefs and consequently our lives. It is about asking hard questions. What is faith? How do science and faith relate? What is God like? Do all religious paths really lead to God? Can we really know Him? Why is there evil if God is good? How do we rise above diffi cult times? It is about changing our perspective on the world and seeing the bigger picture. It is about seeing ourselves in the grand cosmic plan of the Creator. It is about examining our lives so that they might truly be worthwhile.