I was recently talking with someone, and she said, “Everyone is searching for truth.” This statement has stuck with me, and it got me thinking about the way that people look for truth in their own lives as well as how I have discovered it in my life.

In a day and age saturated with news and social media, pleasure is accessible instantaneously. As a result, the search for meaning is often lost in quick hits of dopamine. However, when one chooses to put those 21st-century distractions to the side and explore themselves and their perspective on life and the world, there is a potential to unearth a greater joy.

For me, this search for meaning and greater understanding began with the exploration of religion.

Growing up, I was not raised in a religious family, but since I started college I have had the opportunity to explore, and admittedly embrace, religion. It has taught me more about myself and my understanding of the world than any college course could possibly offer.

Now, I know religion is not for everyone, but I am willing to argue that everyone should take at least a little time to explore it for themselves. It’s easy to be skeptical, but what is the worst thing that could happen? I can assure you, nothing too catastrophic has occurred in my life. In fact, it has only made my life better.

For one, it has taught me about myself. Through taking the time to learn about other people's beliefs I have been fortunate enough to learn about myself as an individual. I have been shared messages of love, importance and the value of talents. Without seeking out religion, I don’t know if I would have ever been shared these messages, which is truly unfortunate because they have been a motivating factor in my life. Exploring religion has forced me out of my comfort zone and facilitated growth.

Investigating religion also challenged the perspectives I held involving my life and the world around me. It has taught me that there are a million different viewpoints, and many of them have something to offer. There are no reasons to discredit them just because they are different than your own. Instead, embracing them is a way to expose yourself to what you may just discover to be the truth.

Moreover, considering religion promotes the understanding of others. Religion has shown me that people are ultimately searching for the same things; love, truth, understanding and happiness. No one wants to be alone, and everyone hopes for a purpose to life. When it comes down to it, on this level, we are all the same.

Overall, taking the time to explore religion has the potential to create joy, understanding and selflessness within people. The chance to cultivate these traits should not be passed up just because you already know what you believe or because you are afraid. Instead, choose to embrace the opportunities that come your way. They may just change your life.