The notion is that we put on a `mask' for God. The meaning of the word `personality' derives from this, and suggests a reality beneath, however complex or even otherworldly the psyche, soul or true self may actually be.
The antidote, it seems, on one level is to recognize - and at least try to reason with oneself to accept - that God already knows us, loves us, accepts us just as we are. This is difficult, since we are still learning, still *practicing* how to do precisely the same thing *to the perfection* which we are told is possible, and which many have even demonstrated.
How is a religion supposed to help God come `down to earth' as well as its own followers `lift themselves and one another to heaven' ... if it cannot face facts and accept that an interface *already exists*?
God walks in our world, even quite literally, while many, many people now visit Heaven every day, in full consciousness, with recall, understanding and true Joy. For the people I've met, and know, who fit this latter category, the barriers described in the article do not seem to exist. They are not afraid of the God(s) walking among us, and are probably not too concerned about aliens, or apocalyptic thinking, politics and rampant consumerism, either. Except that there are many, many layers of denial, or distractions which we allow to inhibit, delay or even destroy a proper relationship with the Divine, with the spiritual component of our own being.
So, while I cannot comment on the article from the perspective of a conventional Christian, or even one who practices the modern rites and ritual associated therewith ... those are my impressions and commentary.
It really is an article that I'm thinking a lot of people will relate to. Above all, we should do our best to feel *uninhibited* when communicating with and developing our relationship with God, whether this is individually, through a faith community, walking in Nature, or some combination of all three.
Be authentic, with God and with each other! It makes a difference!
