I think certain cultures put a lot of emphasis on religion - heck I'd say in mine, the neighbor will always be looking to see if you went to church on Sunday and if not be sanctimonious about it - the hypocrisy is unbelievable

What you said about being spiritual than religious struck home - I still practice my faith - it is very personal to me and not on account of external influences - I think that is the thing - external influences are what makes things so warped for something that is supposed to be beautiful and tolerant