Glitter and Lost Simplicity

We love to build elaborate conceptual constructs. We do it unintentionally, sometimes we do it on purpose. Usually we do it to reinforce our own identities. For whatever reasons, though, we take a simple starting point and add layer upon layer of decoration until the beginning is lost in the creation.

In reading about spiritual teachers from history, I notice that they seemed to follow a path noticeably different from those carrying their messages today. Jesus walked amongst the working class, teaching on the side of the road. It seems his Message was more important than the trappings and that he considered the words appropriate for all human beings.

What started so simply has grown, in some cases beyond recognition. Nowadays, priests charged with bringing the same message to the people often wear special clothing and have evolved many new rituals. Where Jesus went to homes or sat beside the road, we now have special buildings - sometimes expensive ones. The message is delivered with flair, during scheduled events, impressively decorated with vaulted ceilings and polished pews.

Spirituality is about human beings. Possessions are superfluous to the message; egoic identity gets in the way. A huge soaring cathedral is not more impressive than the sky, even if I created it. The original teacher spoke of kindness, compassion and human concerns. Would he approve of his spiritual tradition buying buildings rather than homeless shelters? Is a priestly uniform and residence the best way to walk in the original footprints? Should we deliver a message of humility in the soft glow of golden candelabras and coloerful windows?

I'm not knocking the trappings so much as asking if the message is still clear. At one time, it was about the straying lamb, a compassionate hand extended to each person encountered. The goal seemed to be to help the individual attain spiritual clarity. Simple, straightforward discovery offered to people. Maybe it's still there, beneath all the trappings, but it certainly seems harder to see.

When I see the priest, I see the spiritual tradition of Jesus brought forward 2,000 years, but with many changes. After all, the original was OK for its time, but we need progress, right?

D