“Where is heaven?”

There are many cynical theories that try to explain mankind’s metaphysical leanings. Songwriter Randy Newman sings that God and the Devil are nothing more than the inventions of an animal that knows he’s going to die in his song, “Glory Train.” Other theories include, a need for order and validation of existence. But I’m an optimist. Instead of starting from a negative, I chalk my faith up to curiosity.

“Where is heaven?” That is one of my 5-year-old son’s favorite questions these days.

“Is it above the clouds?” “Is it in space?” Last week he asked his mommy to draw him a map.

It’s difficult to come up with an age appropriate answer to “Where’s heaven?” But I like that he keeps asking.

Religions show us possibilities and those possibilities connect us to others and the world around us. Throughout history religions have given us examples of our potential and they have hinted at how far the road ahead can take us if we have the impetus to keep traveling.

None of my friends helped to guide a cultural revolution, none are whirling dervishes or can talk of having the experience of being in two places at once. But enough of us have heard of fascinating things happening. Enough of us believe in the notions depicted by poets, musicians and priests that we keep moving with an eye to the sky.