sunshinemiss
Posts: 17673
Joined: 11/26/2007 Status: offline
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~FR more or less~ Honestly, I understand the question, and yes, I recognize the conflicts. However, I like to think that I've gotten to a point in my life where I recognize religion as the tool that it is meant to be rather than a weapon it has been turned into. Religion as it is presented to the masses, the communal / group-think type of setup certainly can create the kind of conflict noted in the OP. However, by going beyond the mob mentality, I can find a purer, deeper, more profound understanding of humanity via religion (ymmv). Having lived with people of deep devotion in several different spiritual beliefs, I find the Truth to be more personal, more private, and more flexible than any group-sponsored religion. It has been said that "Religion is the opium of the masses," and I can fully understand that. I choose to NOT ingraciate myself into those groups because of the mob mentality that often arises. Spirituality, on the other hand, for me is the connection to G*d. It is in spirituality that I find the lack of dissonance. Perhaps I am splitting hairs (it wouldn't be the first time), but I find a huge difference in the spiritual aspects of religion and the cultural / group-think aspects. best, sunshine
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Yes, I am a wonton hussy... and still sweet as 3.14
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