Does God Exist? - Understanding Religion, God & Goodness - The Holy Trinity

Have you wondered if God is male or female. What gender is God. Many religions answer that question by providing their own interpretation of God based on predominant ideologies of what constitutes greatness. Personally, I am not even sure if God has a specific gender.

Perhaps God exists as a little star with uncanny abilities to take the form of both male and female. For argument's sake; I would like to refer to God as SHE. Why? Because, when we think of Earth. We think of Mother Nature. We do not say, "Father Nature". When we think of birth and creation; we think of mother and motherhood. After all, we have all been created by a Mother. If God trusted in a woman to have the sole role of creation. After the creation of the universe. Why was man not chosen instead of woman? Perhaps, men were considered to be weaker beings who could not handle labor and the responsibilities of motherhood. As such, its my humble opinion, that if I had to choose a gender for God. I would have to say that God is a woman. Therefore, from hereafter, I will refer to God as SHE where appropriate throughout this hub.

I think ultimate goodness is synonymous for God. The universe in its abundance is God itself. If we believe in an ultimate existence beyond ourselves. If we believe in good always overcoming bad. Then we believe in God. Because God represent these values and beyond.

Of course, some claim that God does not exist. The claim being, "If God exists; show God to me. Then I will believe in God. If I leap off the tallest building; like in the movie, Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol. Would God save me?" Good question. I would like to respond by saying, "Show me proof that God does not exist. Can you prove it." Seriously, I am not going to go down that road. I would rather concentrate on striving to be compassionate and empathetic towards humanity. I think that would be a more worthwhile investment. My definition of goodness encompasses compassion and empathy towards oneself and others. And my premise that God = Goodness stands true based on this definition. As I consider God to be the supreme manifestation of goodness.

However, for those who are non-believers of the supreme creator of the universe. I am not going to argue against them. I think people are entitled to their own opinions. I would rather say, "Do you believe in goodness". Strive for that in your life. And I will appreciate and respect you for that. Though goodness may be seen as subjective by some; it really isn't. What constitutes goodness you may ask? I think most people would agree that goodness is an intention to do good to oneself and others. I am sure people would agree that yelling at someone for the sole purpose of venting steam is wrong. Its wrong to do so without merit. Most people know that. Its goodness of character that I am referring to. And goodness; in the grand scheme; entails that we be thoughtful towards others. If we see that an old lady is having trouble opening the door. We should not purposely avoid her; because we might lose a few seconds of our time. Instead, we should offer to lend her a hand with the door. This could have easily been your grandmother. Think about it. That is the goodness that I am talking about. We are not talking about being Mother Teresa. We are talking about real world things we could do for others to show our compassion and love for humanity. Goodness is a beautiful thing.

Sometimes, we try in vain to make God's existence human-like in order for us to accept God's existence in our lives. Hmm. How is that even rational? For instance, if we can't comprehend how the earth rotates around its orbit; we cannot claim that the earth is stationary? There are numerous concepts beyond our comprehension. Although its easier to accept things we understand; we cannot negate certain concepts as non-existent; because we do not have evidence or sufficient information of its existence. As human beings, we are constantly discovering through science and research; many concepts that once seemed true are falsified with evidence. We are constantly o on the road to discovery. For instance, just now, the director of Avatar, James Cameron, built a submersible to reach the lowest point on earth, the Mariana Trench in the Pacific Ocean. James Cameron took a 7 mile dive into the ocean with the hope of discovering life forms.

As such, how can we attempt to question God's existence? How can we demand a concrete understanding of our supreme creator? Its absurd. As humans, we are yet to discover and understand all life forms from aquatic life, bacteria, viruses to unknown objects that exist in the cosmos. Scientists have postulated that the known universe began with what is called as "The Big Bang". And it makes no sense for someone to argue that nothing could have produced that initiating bang. Something existed and produced that initiating bang.

Appreciate the strength and beauty of all existence. To further illustrate; ask yourself how often you converse directly with the CEO of your company or the shareholders of a billion dollar corporation or perhaps the creator of Microsoft? We are aware of the creation through the various products available in the market. God is like the CEO of the entire universe. And her products are the natural surroundings, landscapes, deep and turquoise oceans, and all life forms in the universe. The ultimate supreme being has jurisdiction over all intangibles and tangibles. God is divine.

God is an intangible thought, experience and being. Its in the mind, soul and heart of those that worship God. God is universal and beyond human comprehension. In other words, try not to have definitions for God and attempt to convert an intangible supreme being into a tangible and confined object for the amusement of humankind.

Please accept the fact that, "What we do not understand does not seizes to exist by virtue of our comprehension".

Think of all the intangibles in life. Love is not something we can see and touch. Yet, we do not say, "show love to me and I will believe it". We know of its existence. The question, "What does love look like?", seems rather absurd. If you seek love; then you will find it all around you in the little things you see. Think of God like this. We have to be loving and caring ourselves in order to find and attract love and compassion towards us. We have to work from within. Similarly, we have to develop goodness within ourselves to attract the supreme goodness from the universe. That is God.

God is an intangible. We can only witness the impact of God in various aspects of our lives. Its almost like asking, "name me everything that the sun shine upon. Show each one to me". Its impossible. Instead, understand God's abundance in its infinite and universal manifestation. Appreciate the supreme creator. And for those looking for a tangible form of God's genius. Appreciate the human body. Its pure genius. Absolutely phenomenal.

Marvel at the human body and appreciate its complexities. Think about its biochemistry. Think about the science behind the mechanisms. There is so much yet to be discovered. With all the technology and scientific knowledge available; we are yet to find cures, diagnosis, and medications for conditions and diseases that have affected humans for decades. We have not even touched the human body in all its complexities.

There are so many functions that are performed by our body without our own conscious knowledge. Of course, we consciously move our legs and hands. However, we do not tell ourselves, specifically, "I want you to digest this food now. Add acid to help break down the pizza. Take it down the intestines so I can excrete the waste". Now, imagine your food stuck in your stomach; because you forgot to give orders. Appreciate your body. Your body does all this for you. Its a gift from God. Do not be so discouraged that you are not able to understand the complexities of the human body and its creator. Appreciate the superiority of it all.

If God is the ultimate goodness; then one might ask, "Why is God not taking intervention in our lives and making the world a perfect place. Is the CEO not doing her job." Think of all the global disasters - the financial meltdown, the tsunami, the floods, the diseases, the epidemics. One may feel like pleading, "Where is God? Our super heroine. Is she not there to save us from the clutches of hardships."

God does not exist when our times are good; but seizes to exist when life takes a downward turn. We should always be believers of God and her supreme goodness regardless of our circumstances. That is true meaning of faith. As such, how can you say that God is not making interventions? God works in mysterious ways. God does not have to inform you of her inner workings. God does not have to make her presence made obvious. God exists within your soul. God's intentions are not to make a perfect world. If it was then heaven would have no significance. Why would we strive to go to Heaven anyway?

I believe that God's intention is to make us stronger. God's intention is not to lay life down in a perfect display of wants and needs; being satisfied as they surface. God wants us to become higher beings. For us to understand the meaning of existence. For us to choose right from wrong. To realize that our moments here on earth are temporary. And precious. That we should make our presence felt eternally by learning to love ourselves and others. To not always be drawn by material possessions. To understand that love is the ultimate dictator of our eternal presence here on earth.

In moments of grief; when I ask myself loudly, "Why me?" I accept the presence of God.

During times of grief or joy; one should not forget or reduce their appreciation and love for God. God's existence does not become substantial only when we are having a wonderful life. But also when we are having a downward turn in life. God's existence is always in abundance.

At that same that you are displeased with life; there is someone else in this world who is ecstatic about life saying, "God is great. I have a dream occupation and a gorgeous house. God answered all my prayers. I am living the life." Its obvious that God exists in abundance for this person. As such, can we say that God is only subjective towards our needs and wants? No. God is universal. If God answers your prayer for a job; God has not granting the job to someone else who may have also prayed for the job. Perhaps harder. Think about it. Be considerate towards others and be thankful for what God has given you. Ask God to give you the strength to handle all the adversities of life. Ask for true happiness. Happiness doesn't always translate to more wealth, possessions, or popularity. Accept that God is a universal and a supreme being. The scope of God and her responsibilities reach far beyond the living beings that inhabit earth to the unknowns of the cosmic universe. That is a huge portfolio. Where would you suggest God make compromises when everyone wants a piece of the same pie?

One may wonder, "How do I understand God?" Similar to love; if you look for God; you will witness God's presence all around you. Faith, religion and spirituality are important for our comprehension. We can understand God by looking within ourselves for goodness and compassion. In terms of religion, its not so crucial that we follow every single scripture, religious teaching, etc. It takes a leap of faith to believe in any religion. Instead, we should invest more care in accepting the universal theme of love, compassion and goodness of heart that most religions advocate.

Love is essentially God. And love exists within yourself. Search and you shall find love and God existing within yourself in perfect harmony. You are closer to God than you may think. God is your guardian angel. The ultimate representation of God is in the form of love. An intangible that humans can easily grasp and follow. If you would like to see God; see God through the love and compassion you show yourself and others. "Be the change you wish to see in this world." Being, the love and compassion you wish to see in this world.

If one was not born into a particular religion or one was not in favor of their particular religion. Then one may consider choosing an appropriate religion. However, there are so many religions and paths to take. How will you be able to choose your religious path? Is it the right path?

What one may consider to be right may not fly well with others. We are all entitled to our own religious affiliations. Its a matter of personal interests. After all, its your relationship with God that matters. The means in which you conduct that relationship is subjective.

However, the universal fundamentals of religion applies to all. Being goodness - compassion, empathy and love. Everything else, including religious practices, and scriptures are derived from this universal concept of goodness. Religion is actually a means towards understanding God or the divine through human interpretation. Its a means of understanding the goodness within yourself.

On the same token, following religious practices meticulously while being disheartening to others has no divine purpose. Its actually a sin. Instead, practice love wholeheartedly first and foremost. And allow religion to be an extension of that genuine love. Religion then becomes a means for you to access your inner goodness. In the process of following religion; its important that we not lose the essence of our inherent goodness. Its easy to lose ourselves within the complexities of organized religious practices.

We should not be hypocrites and say that we believe in God when we don't believe in the goodness within ourselves? The latter leads to the former. And not the other way around. I am referring to people who take part in religious practices in the name of God; but are insensitive to the feelings of others. Their hearts are not of sound intentions pertaining to the universal themes of compassion, love and empathy. As such, its important to stay the course and be compassionate and empathetic throughout our religious practices. And our relationships with humanity, all living things and the universe and cosmos.

Why is Atheist on the list? Contrary to what some may believe. Atheists too can be more religious by practicing goodness. Yet are non-believer of God. I appreciate atheists over those who practice religion; yet are hateful towards humanity. Therefore, being a non-believer; but acting as a believer for the sake of society. Who do you think God will appreciate? God will appreciate genuine goodness.

Why is Buddhism considered to be number one on the table above? Again, I am not making any claims about which religion is the best and which is not. I am not ranking religions. I will leave the top ten for someone else. The destination of goodness is what matters. These religions are not in any particular order. I am not a advocate for any particular religion. However, I do feel that religions are subjective. A particular religion should be felt subjectively as the best expression of our beliefs and thoughts, and our ways of relating to God or the Supreme Being. The photo on right, the Laughing Buddha, states that we should be content with just a few possessions; but abundant love. Something, I can definitely relate to.

Back in the day, being born into a particular religion through my parents; I expressed my inner feelings of goodness through that religion. The specifics of the religion is not important for our discussion here. As I am not interested in debates for or against religion.

I think of my religion in terms of an avenue towards expressing myself and reaching out to the divine. God is the ultimate destination in my opinion. As God represents abundance of compassion and empathy. The path you take towards reaching God is not as important as God itself. God is the ultimate representation of compassion, love, and empathy. And many other concepts representing divine goodness.

Personally, I admire and appreciate different aspects of various religions. If we were to take the teachings about humanity, compassion and love from various religious texts. We will appreciate that most teachings have a universal quality that can help us become better human beings. If one was to tell me that we should love others. It does not matter to me that it was proposed by a particular religious text.

I am not saying that I am confused or without direction; because I have not taken a strong affiliation with a particular religion. I am rather confident in my values, morals and beliefs. I believe in the existence of God and her ultimate goodness. I visit the churches; because I enjoy the calming atmosphere for prayer. I visit temples as I enjoy the religious practices and ceremonies. And I believe in God and her influence over the Big Bang Theory and the theory of evolution. Some may argue that its all science. However, we should appreciate the possibility that God could have been the science. Setting in motion the very foundation of the universe that we inhabit today.

Here is the definition of religion that I believe in wholeheartedly. It has a universal theme of compassion from within. It is from Hinduism. Again, I am not an advocate for any one religion.

The definition of religion says that, "Each soul is potentially divine. The goal is to manifest this Divinity within by controlling nature, external and internal. Do this either by work, or worship, or psychic control, or philosophy--by one, or more, or all of these--and be free. This is the whole of religion. Doctrines, or dogmas, or rituals or books or temples, or forms, are but secondary details".

Everyone is free to disagree with this definition; because I believe and respect all religions. However, I choose the one that best suits my personality and methods. The ultimate destination is God and goodness. As such, I do not practice in comparing religions, convincing others of my religion, or asking others what their religion is. Its important, however, to ask your life partner if they believe in goodness. That being good is important. That good prevails over bad. That is important. Religion is simple at its core. Do not complicate it unnecessarily. Focus on the basics and practice good religion. This is only my interpretation. I repeat that I am not an advocate of any particular religion. I believe in God and goodness. Its important for you to find what works for you.

Its important that we not just show up to a religious institution without heart. Its important to be present in the moment. To think of God. And be grateful. We will appreciate the experience so much more. Thinking of goodness within a religious institution is a simple way of connecting with the fundamental purpose of most religions. Love, compassion and empathy.

Of course, not everyone practices religion for the right reasons. I am referring to those who do not care for compassion. Yet, take part in religious practices to fit in with the community. I have nothing against those who are not great at following religious practices carefully; yet are compassion beings. I think they are beautiful people. However, my concern is for those who take part in religious practices for the political benefits of socializing with others and gaining popularity among society. Unfortunately, at a basic level they they have no real interest in God, prayer or genuine love for people. Its disheartening.

To a lesser degree, some have a selfish relationship with God; where they only wish the best for themselves. "God, please ensure I only get this job. That I am the richest among my relatives and neighbors. That others will not be able to follow suit in my greatness. I wish the worst for my boss and my competitors. I want this.......". Do not be surprised, when some wish that others fail in life so they can receive top honors." Some believe that this is the only way they will look better in society. I think you understand the prevailing theme of prayer for some folks, being me, myself and more me, and ONLY ME, and resentment towards others that walk their path. Personally, I think it would be better to ask for strength than for the weakness of others. I appreciate competition and a fair exchange of ideas.

God would appreciate meditation that encompasses gratitude by saying thank you. We should all pray in the following way - "Thank you God for giving me a wonderful mother, father, siblings, relatives, and friends. I know that they can sometimes be difficult; but I appreciate them so much. I am so thankful for my spouse and my children. I would not be able to enjoy life as much if it was not for my family. I am thankful for having employment. To be able to pays rent, provide food on the table, and clothes for my family everyday. I am thankful for having this opportunity to live as a human in this world. Thanks for not creating me as a ladybug. Thank you God. Thank you also for helping my family, friends and relatives achieve success. Thank you for helping my best friend find a wonderful life partner. Thank you for showing me the path to happiness. Thank you for being there for us all. For being my confidant. For keeping me grounded. Helping me see the beauty in life; and in the most difficult circumstances. I will always believe in you. Because, I always believe in supreme goodness. Thank you God."

One may wonder, "If I pray for all. Who will pray for me? Am I not supposed to ask for anything?" Its perfectly acceptable to ask, want and receive things from your supreme creator. However, we should do so with honest appreciation and respect for those whom we share this world with. God is like a mother to the entire universe. Just as your mother is not only your mother; providing for your needs and wants. But, is also a mother to your siblings. The difference with God being that God is aware of what you want before you even ask. Our supreme creator can tap into our subconscious thoughts before those thoughts even arrive at our conscious awareness. God is great in that way. And so, in life, do what you have to do. And leave the rest to God. That is where faith matters. Remember the old saying, "God helps those who help themselves".