Day 4 - Religion

Religion is always a touchy subject for me.  I was not raised in any religion, nor do I practice any religion at this point in my life.  Instead I was brought up with a set of moral standards that taught me how to be a "good person".  The reality is that these are very Christian based rules, as both of my parents were brought up in the church.  I always seem to get myself in trouble when it comes to this topic, but after much contemplation and thought where I stand on the subject is this:  I believe there is always something greater then myself out there, even if it is simply the world we live in.  I believe that everything we do has an impact on someone or something else, so I should try to live my life the best way I know how, and I should raise my children to do the same.  I would like to think that if there is an almighty being waiting at the gates of heaven/valhalla/nirvana/etc. to let people in then they will be able to look at what I have done in my life and how I have lived and cared for others when they pass judgment on me.  If that almighty being cannot look past my questioning beliefs and see the good that I have done then I would not want to spend eternity with that being, I would rather fade into non existence.  I realize that my views are not accepted by many, and I know that they are "controversial", but it is what it is.  I accept all beliefs as valid, and have much respect for the faithful, it just isn't what works for me.