We in the USA hold "freedom" of the individual in high regard. We write it into our original legal documents. Obedience therefore seems to be a bitter pill that we turn away from swallowing. Yet it has great value. A believer in a religion or spiritual practice, must practice obedience if such person is to live true to their belief. It is not so much obedience to rules and regulations, as to a manner of living, a perspective. A Buddhist is not free to ignore meditation, lest such person be a Buddhist in name only, and not in manner or practice. A Buddhist does not wait for "free" time to practice. And often, they must obey a Roshi in direction and practice. A Christian or Jew has the "surrendering" God as their example. Their God humbles itself before and with the believer. Christ is the God who gives up power to obey the Father. An addict lost freedom when they became addicted. In recovery, they obey a sponsor. Freedom to do as you please is infantile. I try not to make too much of it.
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"Carrying out the guidance provided", to me, seems to go a long way in my recovery. With that lens on the word "obey" my bratty teenage self doesn't seem to want to rebel, lol. I'm very thankful for the growth it provides and your blog is another source for me too. Thanks foe being such a light, Father Ryan
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