Caste Systems

[Written on June 19] Today we visited the Mayan ruins at Chacchoben, which translates to "Place of the Red Rat." Our guide explained Mayan temple culture. They had a caste system and there were certain places where only the high caste could go. Royalty and priests.

This reminds me that the concept of placing people into tiers is in all cultures. We have it everywhere. Airlines, hotel and cruise ship room, corporate roles. I don’t think you can find a truly egalitarian society anywhere, and if there was one, it wouldn't last long as people seem to gravitate to holding power.

Growing up, I was told the church is different, but, as I've experienced firsthand, if you spend any time getting involved in church activities, you will encounter politics and privilege. That's a big part of why I'm not looking to join an institution again. I don't want to have any part with favoritism.

That's one thing that gives me pause with the orthodox Christian message. The message claims eessentially that God has favorites. Favored nations, favored religion, favored gender, favored occupations. It's no different than any other religion or culture. No need to pretend any organization has somehow transcended the human condition.

At least for the timebeing, I'm choosing a solitary journey. There are no favorites. We're all on our own journey that’s uniquely tailored to our individual lives. If you don't organize your spirituality into groups, there's no hierarchy. Maybe it's wrong-headed but, for now, that's where I'm at.

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