Sin

I just returned from 4 days in "Sin City". I sinned. At least that is what some think. I was raised in a very strict religious household. Sin was to be avoided at all cost.  It was a sin to smoke, to drink, to dance, to play cards, to gamble, and to even to think about sex! We prayed for forgiveness. We knew our sins were "washed in the blood". When you are that restricted, sin is sure inviting. I left home at 17 and I sure was looking forward to some sin. I thought I could survive the guilt! Sure enough, I was right.
When I was 28, in my search for my soul, I got involved in a "cult religion". I stopped sinning. I was pretty high and mighty. Stopped smoking, drinking, drugging, eating meat and sugar, and got married. (Again.) I had children. I spent all the years that they lived at home, mostly, on that straight and narrow path. I did eat some fish and chicken.
Then, they left. My doctor said drink red wine. I said okay. I started using sugar on a regular basis. I ate a little beef. I realized that my path is moderation in all things. I still love the "teachings" of that religion, but I can no longer be rigid. I don't want to judge anyone. I am a searcher. I want to live life fully, without being too far left or right. I want to walk the "middle way of the Buddha". I want to laugh and to love.
At my age, a little sinning goes a long way. It is good to be back in my boring routine.