Who Is "The Universe," Anyway? (And Why I Use That Word)
I often talk about "the Universe," "the Divine," "Higher Power," or similar terms in my writing and readings. And I want to be crystal clear about what I mean when I use these words, because inclusivity and respect for all beliefs (or lack thereof) are incredibly important to me.
The truth is, when I say "Universe," I'm not necessarily referring to a specific deity or religious figure. Instead, I'm using it as a placeholder, a broad and open-ended term that can encompass whatever spiritual or philosophical concept resonates with you.
Think of it like this: Imagine a blank space on a form labeled "Name of Deity/Higher Power." Some people might write "God," “Jesus,” others "Allah," "Brahma," "Gaia," or perhaps "Spirit." Some might leave it blank altogether. "Universe," "Divine," and "Higher Power" are meant to fit in that blank space.
Here's what I do mean when I use these terms:
* The Source of All Things: Whether you believe that source is a personal God, a universal energy, the interconnectedness of all life, or simply the natural laws of the cosmos, "Universe" is meant to represent that fundamental source of creation and existence.
* A Guiding Force (if you believe in one): For those who believe in a guiding hand, "Universe" can represent that force that orchestrates events, offers guidance, and provides support. Again, this could be your specific deity, a spiritual collective, or your own inner wisdom.
* The Power Greater Than Ourselves: Even if you don't subscribe to a specific religion or spiritual practice, there are often forces at play that are larger than our individual selves. "Universe" can represent that sense of something bigger, something beyond our control, whether it's fate, destiny, or simply the unpredictable nature of life.
* A Connection to Something Larger: Ultimately, "Universe" is a way of acknowledging that we are all part of something greater than ourselves. It's a way of recognizing our connection to the world around us, to each other, and to the mystery of existence itself.
Why I Use These Terms:
I use these terms because they are intentionally open and inclusive. They allow me to discuss spiritual and philosophical concepts without imposing my own beliefs on others. I want my work to be accessible and meaningful to people from all walks of life, regardless of their religious or spiritual background (or lack thereof).
What This Means for You:
When you encounter the words "Universe," "Divine," or "Higher Power" in my work, feel free to substitute them with whatever term resonates most deeply with you. Whether that's "God," "Spirit," "Nature," "Inner Wisdom," or simply "Life," the meaning remains the same. It's about connecting with that sense of something bigger, something more, that exists within and around us all.
I believe that spirituality is a deeply personal journey, and I honor and respect the diverse ways in which people connect with the sacred. My intention is simply to offer a language that can be used by everyone, regardless of their individual beliefs.