That which is never spoken

From the journal of Henry David Thoreau:

Last evening one of our neighbors, who has just completed a costly house and front yard, the most showy in the village, illuminated in honor of the Atlantic telegraph. I read in great letters before the house the sentence "Glory to God in the highest." But it seemed to me that that was not a sentiment to be illuminated, but to keep dark about. A simple and genuine sentiment of reverence would not emblazon these words as on a signboard in the streets. They were exploding countless crackers beneath it, and gay company, passing in and out, made it a kind of housewarming. I felt a kind of shame for [it], and was inclined to pass quickly by, the ideas of indecent exposure and cant being suggested. What is religion? That which is never spoken.

This reflects much of my own opinion on the spectacle of religion, and speaks to the source of my ambivalence towards man-made organisations of that sort.

Comments

[Linda]

I'm with you and Henry, although I can imagine a million different conflicting opinions. Which just goes to prove my point. Everything is between my God and me, no need to involve anyone else. I've said too much already!

[Mark]

Amen, brother!