In the photo I've shared, there's an arranged space that encapsulates my personalized approach to spirituality. At the heart of this is a wooden cross, subtly incorporating Christian symbolism into my home, a notepad, a large candle in a holder, and a vibrant green plant. This setup is my private sanctuary where I connect with my spirituality away from the public eye. What this image represents is a retreat from the overt, sometimes harsh realm of organized religion into a more personal and contemplative space. This shift is largely a response to Christian extremism, which often emphasizes divisive and politically charged rhetoric over the compassionate and inclusive aspects of faith. Such extremism can make traditional communal worship feel unwelcoming, compelling me to find solace and spiritual connection within the privacy of my home. This approach to spirituality is deeply relevant to our lives as it reflects a broader tendency to retreat from public discourse—whether it be religious, political, or cultural—into personal sanctuaries. This movement towards individualized spirituality acts as both a coping mechanism and a form of resistance, helping me preserve my personal integrity and peace in an increasingly polarized world. It also invites a reflection on how we can shape our own environments, beliefs, and practices to nurture our well-being against the backdrop of a world where expressions of identity and belief are frequently contentious.