Why Shiva?

Every relationship, whether spouse children or society as a whole, represents a binding on oneself that binds us to that which is not only an illusion (Maya) but also short lived (Nashwar)

Consequent to such binding, one is bound to do, perform certain duties towards these so called relatives(read loved ones, could very well be your spouse or children or parents). This binds one to these people and to this world which itself is short lived. And this binding also takes away one's freedom, makes one act in ways that one would not have had it not been for the binding.

The problem with such a binding is its difficult to let go of any of these relations. But the reality is relations are not meant to last. That is the root cause of pain and suffering among humans.

Wise men of the ancient past have discovered and enlightened us about the ill effects of Maya.

Shiva is the only one of all the heros of historical and mythological stories that not only understand this fact but also practice it verbatim. He also represents complete dissociation from all bindings and therefore truth and happiness bliss (Satyam Shivam Sundaram).

I'm not religious nor do I believe in any God who can help us with our sick excuse of a life in any way but I feel the ancients identified the problem correctly and Shiva comes closest to being the right solution to the said problem. That's why Shiva.