God

 Most people that I have met have acknowledged that religion, in some way, affects their life. A common theme with people in recovery or battling some sort of challenge, be it social or health-related, is belief in a higher power. I have often thought that this kind of way of thinking is foolish, and I have been fortunate to have been with intelligent people who don't subscribe to this way of life, but I have in recent times revised my thinking somewhat. Psychologically, I think mankind or humans have a need to look up to a "higher power". This could stem from childhood, when we look up to our parents.

Faith, as it is called, can play a role in life. I strive to not subscribe to faith, especially in a higher power, for choosing to focus on objective pursuits like a life dedicated to pursuing knowledge or reading is more honest and satisfying, but I can't deny the role of beliefs in getting us through challenging circumstances.

Overall, the ability to reason and think is more important than simply "blind faith". Again, this is a personal topic that perhaps will trigger some readers, but getting along with people could require some sort of faith. My mother would talk about "the universe". For many it is God. I got through the first four books of the bible (Genesis, Exodus, Deuteronomy, and Numbers - as I believe they are) and they influenced me. Because the bible is an important book in human culture and history, I may return to reading it (for now, I am enjoying Tolstoy). The bible maps out a way of looking at Christian and Hebrew traditions involving religious views on God and key figures.

I think that not only support circle but a belief in a higher power can be one way of coping with people, who are extremely difficult to be around - especially as we age. Having one or two people, though, that truly count in your life - vs. a multitude of people as is the case with lives that involve dependents or clients (or colleagues), is a good way to live. Choosing those that reason and seek knowledge to be involved in your life might alleviate the need for the common belief in a higher power. But we can not all be so fortunate.