Freedom to Define

I grew up with a very specific image of God – stern judgmental keeping score. When I first heard about turning my will over to God I wanted to run. Why would I trust that God? The one who was always disappointed in me always waiting for me to fail so punishment could be delivered?

Then I learned that I was free to define the God of my understanding. Not required to use anyone else's definition. Not bound by childhood teachings or family traditions. Free to discover a Higher Power I could actually trust with my life and will. This freedom changed everything.

I started slowly paying attention to what felt like love versus what felt like fear. I let go of the God who kept score and began to discover a God who offered second chances. Then third chances. Then infinite chances. I released the God of judgment and found the God of compassion.

My Higher Power today looks nothing like the one I inherited. Some days I don't even use the word God – I talk about Love or Truth or the Wisdom greater than my own understanding. What matters isn't the name but the relationship. I've found a Power I can trust and that makes all the difference.

Today I allow my understanding to grow and change as my relationship deepens.