Generation “whY” questions religion
Dec 13th
Even in secular America, Sunday mornings are still synonymous with church. Whether just for Easter and Christmas Eve or weekly services, many young adults look back on childhood memories of donning a pretty dress or a clip-on tie and snoozing through some sort of religious service. But as they have matured, 18- to 25-year-old Americans have drifted away from the churches of their youth in search of a different sort of religious life.
For children raised in religious households, the transition into college – and an independent lifestyle – often propels young adults to reevaluate their religious views. Many choose to continue a variation of the religious lifestyle taught to them by their parents, others redefine their religion in terms of their own “spirituality” and still some establish an entirely new religious outlook. Read the rest of this entry »
Hinduism, Caste and Generation Y
Dec 8th
“Each man devoted to his own duty, attains perfection.” –Bhagavad-Gita, Ch 18, v 45.
To Kevin Naidoo, Hinduism is more than a series of rituals performed in temple.
“When I was seven years old, there was a stage in our lives when my Dad was unemployed for nine months,” said Naidoo. “He had to sweep floors to put food on our table.” But, because of his father’s devotion to God, there was never a day the family went hungry, he said. “My dad’s faith carried our family through all those times.”
Naidoo, now 30, works as an accounts manager for a California based company, traveling the world and living life as a successful yuppie. Because of his father’s devotion and dedication, religion is of special importance to Naidoo.
“That’s why I prefer to marry someone within my faith. There’s nothing more blissful in a marriage than a husband and wife praying together.” he said. “Being the only son, my father wants me continue his legacy and uphold what we inherited.”
And in Hinduism, that which is inherited is caste. Read the rest of this entry »