EXCUSE ME, but for more than 6000 years now, man has been comtemplating the nature of his god with signs, words, pictograms, statues, monuments, theories and various beliefs and practices. And all to no avail ! The mystery is greater today and more confused than ever. Since no one has yet chanced to return from death to relate any tales of the great beyond, it shall remain a mystery ! However common sense and reason lead us to disregard thoughts of an actual Nirvana or heavenly Eden, eg. Shangri-la. It may be that what we envision as heaven may be hidden behind the giant curtain of the sky and ethereal in its truest sense ! But who can question that ? Although many have tried, I dare say many millions through the ages. Let’s settle on another issue, how to please our God. The holy books are clear, faith, behavior, deeds and sacrifice ! Considering that this netherworld contains all sorts and ranks of angels plus those who have been chosen to be among the ruling class, you know, the 144,000 saints and elders. Who does the cooking for this bunch or do they eat at all ? I’m guessing sex and shopping are on a special no-no list ! My point being, I have wondered why God demands and is pleased by burnt offerings, exotic incense, intensity of prayer, the hallelujahs and Psalms. Perhaps because this is how the heavenly hosts are enabled to savour the earthly pleasures in their gossamer state. What better than the voices of many choirs, performers or carolers to evoke both passion and ecstasy in the hearts of those who hear ? The bible tells us to make a joyful noise unto the Lord. For now, I intend to follow those instructions ! How about you ? Sincerely, Claire B.
Claire V. Bogdanos 