I agree with everything you've said, Bath.

I also don't think it takes much to make that connection with God. I think some people get put-off by all the rituals when (I think) all they need to do is sit quietly where there are no distractions and meditate.
This is true. Since I've been reading the Bible tho, I have found all of these traditions/rituals that I didn't know, food laws, holy days etc. And while i don't think they're absolutely neccesary to do to believe in God or have a relationship with him i am really glad I have found out about them. It's helping me to be more aware of God in my daily life (e.g. when I have to think what I can eat). So I am glad I found out about it for me (that's what prompted this thread). I am a person who learns and understands through doing things and this works for me. But other people are different and don't like this kind of stuff. I think it's about finding what works for you and I'm glad I have.

I am really liking this thread, thanks everyone who is participating it's great to be able to talk about this stuff openly!
BTW I hope Yael and Dach come back on here, they had some really interesting contributions.