Is Religion Right? Looking at the Pros and Cons

Life is but a small piece of our universe, one tiny instance in the grand scheme of things. Yet it is all we know, so it becomes the most important piece, the piece that must be protected and treasured. But what lies beyond life? What happened before? Is this really all there is? Are we really so naive and self-centered that we believe our minuscule lives are all there is? Human beings, animals, Earth, all surrounded by floating rocks and burning balls of light. Surely the mere structure of our universe is enough to convince someone there is more than just what we see in front of us. 

The conclusion many people come to when confronted with the incredible wonders of our planet is usually something religious. I do not deny the presence of a higher power but I also do not focus my attention on any one religion, being as I don't find any one that fits my ideas of the world. I also find it hard to believe just one could be right, yet all proponents of each religion swear they know the ultimate truth. 

I firmly believe I can respect and admire nature and science in all of its beauty and complexity without offending any "god". I also believe that respecting and honoring those around me is enough to please any so-called "righteous god" and therefore save me from any future condemnation. 

Many claim that this is simply a refusal to choose a religion, a way out. It is seen as "cheating" by trying to encompass all religions by remaining without a religion and attempting to save oneself no matter which religion ends up being right. 

To that I say, what if you are all wrong? What then? I am not refusing to choose, I am simply not convinced that any rituals and traditions would please a god any more than my beliefs in being a good and decent person would. 

Religion is often a troublemaker. For centuries, it had caused wars among those who practice different religions and even between denominations of the same religion. Most religious issues arise from extremist groups within the religion, usually a small amount of people that make a huge impact on the image of the religion itself. A prime example would be extremist Muslims who have given Islam a bad name. There are also problems with some religions ostracizing certain groups of people (certain Christian groups and LGBTQ individuals) or subjugating a group (women in many religions). 

I have no religion and would like to think I am an extremely kind and caring person who is not quick to judge or condemn. This does not mean I think religion should be done away with. Religion has many benefits to counter some of the negativity it brings. One of my biggest reasons for supporting religion is its social benefit. It often creates a feeling of community and acceptance that can lead to high self-esteem, greater involvement in society, an improved ability to speak to and approach others, and a sense of being able to give your problems to someone above you. 

That being said, not having a religion is okay too. I feel that I am socially advanced and have decent self-esteem without the help of a church. However, I know that many people need religion in their lives. I also know that I am not one of those people. 

What are your opinions on religion? Is it going to advance as time goes on or will it fade into the past? What are its benefits for you?