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I love to try to see through others' eyes when it comes to religion. I'm learning "religion" is basically man's attempt to reach God - when in fact He has been reaching toward us since before the foundation of the world. I believe there are a lot of allegories in the Bible, just as Jesus taught in parables. Proverbs says that is is the matter of kings to dig out truths. I don't believe it's to be literal but it is to be guided with the direction of the Holy Spirit just as it was written. I also believe God honors any attempt we make at reaching a relationship with Him ... no matter the name it is given. Clear as mud .. huh?
posted by
robinrn
on November 29, 2008 at 7:35 PM
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Well stated. Openminded seeking truth that woks in a manner uplifting to you makes sense. There is a judgmental quality to some poeple's beliefs which can turn people away from 'organized' Christian Churches. The bottom line to me is we all are similar or the same and no one is better. We need to recognize ourselves as spiritual being and find the path to adhere to. Peace is a grand reward as your Mother has dicovered.
posted by
merkie
on November 29, 2008 at 9:58 AM
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Since I have not been gifted with divine insight, I can only say
I have no idea whether you're right or not. But what harm is there in believing as you do? Peaceful acceptance of others' truths is not a bad idea IMO.
posted by
Pat_B
on November 29, 2008 at 6:05 AM
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I believe
in God and always have done. Not because I read the scriptures particlularly - though I do occasionally - or because I was brought up in a strictly religious home etc. I also absolutely hated 'Sunday School.' I believe because I feel it - not just in the good or bad times - but all the time. It is a great comfort to me. Now, I don't know what's going to happen to me but I do know I am presented with choices and challenges along the way, so I do believe this is compatible with free will. I also have no problem with evolution or the Bible being figurative or allegorical - in short, a guide. I think this was a great post and you should write more of them!
posted by
malcolm
on November 28, 2008 at 10:28 AM
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I'm with ya on your thoughts, Vey patriarchal...
posted by
hazel_st_cricket
on November 27, 2008 at 7:15 AM
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Well, well
I must say I don't read scripture much. I went to a Catholic school, so know the Bible and its lessons. I belong to the Arya Samaj - an offshoot of Hinduism - a social reform movment. I had worked with the Quakers in India (social development), the Metdoists in Washington DC (public policy) and have been in Buddhist retreats (Viapsanna). I take what I want from religions, but know I am more into spirituality.
I also know that whatever brings comfort to people is good for them as longas it doesn't hurt others. I believe this is what helped your mother, right?
posted by
Greenfields
on November 27, 2008 at 1:23 AM
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my father was a verbally abusive Nazi Athiest so i know what it is like to grow up like that - but my mother was Jewish. I guess that is why I am in psychotherapy.
posted by
ladychardonnay
on November 26, 2008 at 6:29 PM
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My thoughts are linked to this great saint's advice. You can read in my post below
http://www.blogit.com/Blogs/Blog.aspx/hardilaziz4493/578686
posted by
hardilaziz
on November 26, 2008 at 5:04 PM
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