SouthFlorida.com | Teen Link South Florida

I grew up going to church every Sunday.

Simple as that.

There was no choice involved. By birth, I was automatically pushed into life as a Roman Catholic. It was Sunday school or bust; no option allowed. And to a certain extent, that gave me a sense of security, a sense of belonging that didn't come from school or friends.

It was never oppressive. I wasn't forced to do anything I didn't want to. But it was simply the way it was, which was all fine and dandy until I turned 14, when I decided I would choose when I wanted to go to church.

I was no longer a child; I was a young woman. I wanted to seek out my own path when it came to belief.

I'm sure others, like myself, who were raised in a set belief system find themselves itching to explore. I delved into books, pored through encyclopedias and devoured web sites about world religions. It was daunting. I began two years ago, and I'm not finished to this day. But learning about the countless faiths that are celebrated all over the world fascinated me.

Being forced to venture out on your own forces you to rethink your values. It compels you to think outside the box, to put a mirror up to your upbringing and see where you stand. Finding your own personal truth can be the most rewarding experience of your life, even if it takes years.

I don't think it's about the end result. I think the journey is the most worthwhile endeavor. The search requires analytical thinking, a touch of skepticism and a bit of independence every teen could use for the future. Investigating belief systems for yourself can mold you into the kind of member of society that is lacking today: intelligent, well-read, informed and open-minded.

Being stuck in a predetermined religion has its benefits, but the thrill of exploration, in my eyes, is far more beneficial.

I'm still not sure where I stand. My sojourn into the world of major religions has not led me to a Garden of Eden yet, but I've grown as a person on the way there.