How religion changes lives

My name is Derick Bussiere, I am 24 years old originally from Cape Cod MA and have been living in Boston for a total of 4 days so far. I have decided to go back to school after taking a 4 year break to work and I am very proud of that decision. I play drums in a band with 2 albums of original music released, and also enjoy baseball, football, soccer, fishing, and movies. I have responded to an article written by Eileen Flanagan titled How Religion Changes Lives.



How Religion Changes lives begins with an explanation about one of the authors Islamic friends who describes herself as a controlling type of person and a "money and germs" type of worrier. During Ramadan, this woman feels most at peace by fasting because she can put herself in the shoes of those less fortunate and in turn gains a deeper appreciation for her own life. Eileen then goes on to explain that even in spiritual religions that do not focus on a Deity there is still an underlying message of helping those less fortunate than yourself; if you will, a "treat others as you would like to be treated" philosophy no matter social, educational, or financial status. Eileen then goes on to give advice on how to change ones perception as her friend does, " know god, know peace." People change at different paces through many different ways. Prayer, scripture reading, community service, epiphanies, and tragic moments, no matter what the reasoning there is hope for all people to change. As long as one can be honest with ones self, accept the good and bad, and are willing, than change is imminent.



I believe Eileen has the right idea about change, everyone has the chance to do so it just depends on the person and if their willing to capitalize on it. There are many people who get countless chances to better themselves and fail to do so. For example, multiple convicted felons are incarcerated numerous amounts of times throughout their life and even though they know the consequence of their poor decision they still fail to keep themselves out of jail. I believe religion is an aid to helping a person see a different path than the one their on; exactly like a "self help" book for living. In the end it is the person (ones self) who is responsible for the outcome of their life. I always think of any one of the award shows that get heavy publicity ( Grammy's, Oscar's, etc.) and how many award winners thank first and foremost their lord and savior. To me this never made sense. First and foremost they wouldn't be standing where they are if it weren't for their mother, and secondly they wouldn't be standing there if they themselves did not put in the amount of work and effort it took to reach such a feat.


Religion is a self help book to guide people who do not have enough self confidence in themselves to make change. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that, everyone at one point or another must ask questions and must be curious, and their are many ways to find those answers. In the end it is the individual who must take 100% percent of the credit for making change.