When we talk about religion, we are talking about the things that matter most to us, our core beliefs, our core values, and the things we actually do and do NOT do that matter most. What we ARE religiously goes way beyond what we profess to believe, or what is academic, or philosophical. It defines our faith, our operating ethics, and our perceived reality.

Religious performances are defined by what we do every day and every week. It is defined by what we think, say, and do. It is defined by our conduct. It is defined by how we use our discretionary time. And it is defined by how we respond to stress, hurt, hunger, loneliness, and suffering. You can say you believe in God, heaven, and hell, but if you do not act accordingly, then that is not your religion.

Religiosity denotes a level of seriousness defined by one’s actions and priorities. Being religious about something means you consistently prioritize it every day. Religiosity is a matter of faith. It is what you truly believe in. It denotes values and actions inspired by the promise of benefits.

In a broad sense, your religion is defined by what you think will make you and others happy, successful, and result in salvation rather than damnation in the next life. Unfortunately, many people are plagued with contradictory beliefs, values, habits, and life choices. In other words, so often, what we do does not reflect what we think we know (or believe) will bring the best long-term benefits. Instead, we most often do what we think will give us the quickest and easiest solutions to our current difficulties, or which will give us easy affirmation, pleasure, and happiness. This is bad religion.

A good religion systematizes beliefs, priorities, and actions that bring the best long-term benefits. Often, these are very simple and straightforward beliefs, priorities, and practices. We would all do well to define and strictly follow such a system of beliefs, priorities, and best practices.

What I have shared here constitutes the introductory section of a document I have written wherein I attempt to define my religion. In this document, I have listed basic things I do my best to prioritize doing each day and each week. I also list some things I will not do. As one who no longer has official membership in any formal church, I find this quite helpful.