Let’s face it: life can feel like a game of charades. We wear masks, portraying ourselves in ways we think others expect. We follow pre-defined scripts, chasing careers and relationships that society deems “successful.” But what if those expectations are choking the life out of our true selves? What if this so-called apparition of self-created perfection is choking our faith and spirituality? This was my reality until I stumbled upon Richard Carlston’s eye-opening book, “Choking God.”
“Choking God“ isn’t your typical self-help book. It’s a raw and honest exploration that throws open the doors for anyone suffocating under self-imposed limitations. Carlston uses a powerful metaphor – the “gods” we create. These “gods” are the deeply ingrained beliefs and expectations that dictate our lives, stemming from religion, societal norms, or even family traditions.
My “gods” were a suffocating mix. The religious dogma of my upbringing instilled a fear of stepping outside the lines. Societal expectations pushed me towards a career I found soul-crushing. It wasn’t until I started choking on the bitterness of a life unlived that I realized these “gods” were strangling my happiness.
“Choking God” became my lifeline. Carlston’s playful yet profound approach resonated deeply. He talks about questioning the status quo, a concept that initially terrified me. But as I delved deeper, a spark ignited within. I started journaling, questioning everything I thought I knew. Why was I clinging to a career path that brought no joy? Was my faith truly mine or borrowed by a set of beliefs and societal norms? Am I really me, or someone else molded sculpture?
The first step was facing my discomfort. I quit the soul-sucking job, a decision that sent shockwaves through my family (one of my self-made “gods” whispering disapproval). Then, I started exploring spirituality outside the confines of organized religion. It wasn’t easy, but I felt the “gods” loosening their grip with each step.
The book also emphasizes self-reliance. Carlston argues that happiness isn’t something bestowed upon us; it’s a responsibility we own. This hit me like a ton of bricks. For years, I blamed external forces for my unhappiness. “Choking God” empowered me to take ownership of my life to make choices aligned with my authentic self.
Not to mention that there were moments of doubt—whispers from the so-called, self-made “gods” urging me back to the safety of conformity. But then I’d remember the exhilarating feeling of breaking free, of shedding the masks I wore for others. That reminded me that God had created me with a purpose. He made me different from others so I could do what I wanted and find peace. He sent me to this world to be me—myself.
“Choking God” isn’t just about dismantling limitations. Instead, it is about embracing the person you were meant to be. The book encourages self-discovery — a journey that can be messy, exciting, and ultimately liberating. It’s a guide—a compass pointing towards self-discovery and finding oneself. It won’t tell you exactly what to do, but it will equip you with the strength to dismantle your own “gods” and forge your path. This journey may not be easy, but the freedom on the other side is worth every ounce of effort.
So, if you’re feeling like I was – trapped, suffocated, and yearning for something more – then pick up “Choking God.” It might just be the wake-up call to break free from the self-made cages and finally breathe freely.
About the book:
“Choking God” by Richard Carlston is an amazing book that will lead you to freedom. By dismantling the cages of religion, societal expectations, and even relationships, urging readers to discover their own truths, this raw and honest memoir uses humor, insightful reflection, personal experiences, and musses to guide you on a path of self-discovery and independence. Prepare to question assumptions, challenge limitations, and ultimately break free from the shackles of external forces—the monsters and teachers and the self-made gods—to find the freedom and fulfillment that resides within you!