With a very kind manner I am writing this one blog. I have been shopping, meeting a very good friend of mine which is probably for another post.
I don't negate the religious aspects of life. I have always surrounded myself within my work and within my own personal life with people from a variety of religions but they never have pushed it if you know what I mean.
I do have my own areas in which I find to be of value. I don't find any differentiation to what religion a person has. I truly mean that. I wished to write this blog as I have no hate for anyone by way of religion unless it comes to being fanatical. Secondly, I don't feel that it's within my placement to write consistently on religion. I was raised a christian and over the years I have seen so many different people and ethnicities that I find that for myself, I write as I wish. I am not an Atheist. But I think that is something that is reserve. As for me I abide by what I believe in and I do have my own values and belief system.
This write has been a long time in coming as I know that there has been a push on multiply with religion and that's fine with me as I enjoy all varieties of things. Over the weekend I ran into a family that I first met when I arrived here and they were of another culture that was of a different faith than Christianity.
I have no reserve in mentioning this as I do believe that everyone has there own given right to have there own value system. Certainly I was raised a christian but I am more of a spiritual person but I need not defend what nor whom I am - nor my beliefs.
In any faith structure I have always found that there are normalities and fanatical thought but as the saying goes to each their own. I often find it to be a contradiction with how in the name of faith it's taken. As for myself I am a moderate, but then again it's my own prerogative as to how I feel with it all.
What we do within our lives is what shapes what we are. I think that stands for itself. When we can have an understanding without the need to push ideals onto others is humanity at it's best.
Some may take this entirely the wrong way, my hopes are that it's otherwise. However I thought it was worth the mentioning and as well the gossip factor goes around but I would rather say it straight up. I have people that are on here that think in a variety of manners. And still to this day I believe that it's more about the person than it is about anything else.
There are people that will tend to work in shades of grey, and then there are people that just write as they desire. I have had my own reservations within whom I blog with and I am very content with whom is on. We all have taken people off our blogs and we all have found a placement within whom we write along with.
That is what I find of much value within my online experience and I am no group nor anything but what I write. I still find the writings to be of a great value. Everyone has there own areas as do I.
We all have our different lives and that is the abundance of what life is - not what life is not. So I thought this was something that was a fine time to mention this as I have been gifted with having some good friends.
We all have our reservations but at the same time we have that right to make the changes we deem fit. It's not an act of denial as a few would think but when we all stand on our own grounds and enjoy this - I think this is the merits of what it can be.
For the one that has only a characteristic based on one premise kudos to them. I love the variety of people that have good intentions as I have been fortunate to fine on here and within my life thus far. Does it flow? It certainly does. But I thought it was not too serious nor defamatory to write this on my own value and belief systems.
I am certain that it all comes out within the writes that I have done thus far.
I could name all the names literally that are on my blog but I enjoy the array of people. There are some that have literally been the greatest in times that have been hard and just like anyone else I am just a human being as everyone else. Gosh this seems so serious but it's really to the contrary.
With all do respect that is my own thought or opinion. And I am not pushing it to anyone just expressing myself at this time.
As far as this Monday - it's been a great one. Which I am sure I will write about later on. Yet I read as well, and it's a collective render in which we all write.
Just my own views and thoughts and once again as the saying goes to each their own. I think it's fitting...
We were never made to go to church by my fsther or mother-my father having lost his father in the great war and was in WW2 he always sayed he couldn't believe in a religion or a god that allowed such attroceties to happen to human beings so we could make up our own minds-I did the same for my children-I went into medicine and truely there is no place for 'belief' in medicine and tht is so true-
ReplyDeletebut I to am very tolereant if it helps you through your day by all means do it-
There are three words I use as a sort of ideal to live to - these are, Unity Diversity and Generousity. United as a people with Diversity in thought and the Generousity to accept the diversity. These words I read in a book by Steven Covey called the '7 Habits of Highly Effective People' and they have stayed with me ever since. I think to live a good life is essential to peace and happiness and this I know this from having lived the experience of my own life. This I believe can be found in the teachings within our own cultural spirituality. Each culture has it's own religion or philosophy and within the 'Teachings" of the religions of these cultures, and not the religion itself, will you find the key to a good life. I think also what you live to or are writing about here Jack, makes me think of the saying "To thine own self be True" . A great post and thank you.
ReplyDeleteJack, I am going to be honest with you..........I read this blog, and didnt understand a thing you said. To me, you didnt reveal anything about your beliefs, other than to say they were your own. I respect that.
ReplyDeleteI won't say "religion" is a big part of my life, but I will say that my faith is a huge part of my life. I am a Christian who respects all beliefs, and I also don't think it really matters which doors you walk through on the weekend, or whether you worship within an organized religion at all. It is how you live your life and what you hold in your heart. I will never apologize for my faith and I will continue to post for my friends here who believe as I do, or who believe in the power of prayer, wherever the prayers are directed! Faith is the important thing, and living by the original 10 Commandments (or boil them down to the one golden rule!). If someone is not a believer, then perhaps by my example, they might come to know God. I agree with Linda, though. You really don't actually state your beliefs, other than to say you were raised as a Christian and are not an atheist. I can respect that, Jack. I respect all of my friends here, even the one who practices Wicca in it's truest form. She is a good person. I pray for everyone and do my best to show respect and understanding to everyone. My friends deserve my trust and respect, and I expect the same from them. It is when the trust and respect are gone that we delete the contact or block the contact and move on. That's the beauty of Multiply - much less complicated on-line than face-to-face.
ReplyDelete!
What did you say? It is difficult to take offense if I don't know what point you are making. If any of us are annoying, just delete us.
ReplyDeleteAll had been said about religion but for me it's the faith not the religion that matters, Jack. It's just not words, but what's really inside our hearts and only God could see that ... hugs. :)))
ReplyDeleteLike Terri, religion is not a big thing to me. My faith is a major part of my life.
ReplyDeleteThe way a person behaves on a daily basis, showing everyone around them how they truly are, speaks volumes.
I fully understand where you are coming from Jack. Force-fed religion, is what drives people from said religion, no matter what type it is.
If one has an idea on where another stands on a particular subject, that can tend to strengthen a friendship.
Good write my friend.
scott
Tolerance I can relate with this Heidi...
ReplyDeleteThis is how I see it needless actually it's really what I was writing Keith...
ReplyDeleteYes I did, maybe read it again as I am sure that all have. Recently there are many "bible thumpers" which I am am not a believer in I am not much into the push with intimate areas of life such as religion but here again to each their own. For myself, I know what I am and therefore I don't need to push it. That is it basically.
ReplyDeleteWell, Jack, thanks for explaining. I have to say that I am a "Bible thumper", am proud of it, and therefore, I dont really believe you and I have much in common. So, with that said, I am going to wish you well, thank you for the short friendship, and take care. God bless you.
ReplyDeleteJack,I agree with Terri,I believe in prayer,consoling my friends,giving and doing.I have many friends regardless of their faith,yet I find it easier to say hello to them,even when they may or may not respond.What I think is regardless of one's faith or beliefs,we all have choices of the company we keep(friends).God gave all mankind a choice good over evil.I chose to live peaceful with all people,because to me it is the right and proper thing to do.
ReplyDeleteBible thumper here also.
ReplyDeleteI was knocked off online - I could not agree with you more Terri...
ReplyDeleteThere is no intention Cath to take offence, and you can certainly speak for yourself not "us"....as you are your own individual.
ReplyDeleteGood for you Linda...
ReplyDeleteParrie, Terri always does make a very good sense, and I respect her for that as I do for you as well. Reading what I wrote you will find I just indicated that I wish for no pushes within religion nothing more nor less. We all are proper and I feel honored to have many to write along with. As you well know.
ReplyDeleteWell said Jack ... thanks for being you. [smiles]
ReplyDeleteGood for you Cath....what is a bible thumper?
ReplyDeleteI would rather just say this now as I do hold my beliefs but I love to write on so many things but I don't push my religion...I think it's a contradiction.
ReplyDeleteScott you there is not one peson I hate. I just thought this was a time to mention this. And Scott I respect you much as you do know.
ReplyDeleteI think I kind of know what you are saying but I'm not sure. As far as people pushing religion I've never been too fond of the word "religion" it can encompass so many definitions. A person can be very religious yet be mean spirited. I struggle with those who have sent me invites and once I accept I find that they are only here to post their own agenda which may indeed be good without making an effort to get to know the people you invite as friends seems a little empty to me. Their invite should not be an invite for friendship or online buddy if they only want others to read their posts or in most cases copy and paste. I'm here because I love to write and I love photography so I post some pictures and I like looking at my friends pictures also. It is enriching. I love to connect with people. I am blessed with some good friends.
ReplyDeleteI've had contacts and even now who to my knowledge have never stopped long enough to read a blog.There is no requirement but every so often it is sure nice to have a visit and get to know others.
I write what's in my heart. That means my faith as well as the struggles are out there
Have a good night
Exactly Cheryl that is how I feel with it all.
ReplyDeleteSome copy and paste is fun and inspiring and I re post sometimes on things I have interest in or think others may enjoy but I like to see the personal touch with it smiles...
ReplyDeleteFaith is many things for many people, I literally respect people from all areas and walks of life - literally.
ReplyDeleteLikewise and in no manner was I pointing fingers nor am I anti christian, but it's something that I have never pushed, I love the creative shares and so forth as I know you do by way of your blog as well. My hopes are that people don't jump to conclusion with this. But some may yet you render the best in whom we are and what we are.
ReplyDeleteThat to me is the enjoyment in this and believe you me during some of the hard times I have found some great people during this time online Cheryl.
I have my faith and on my blog it indicates it...but there is so much to be wrote about....
ReplyDeletehttp://initiativestain.multiply.com/photos/album/29/Revisiting_the_Cathederal_Basilica
Jack,I agreed with Terri and I agree with what Cheryl is saying too.When someone invites you to be their friend,then that is what it is suppose to be a friend,that drops by from time to time to say hello,how you are doing with the ability to laugh or send a smile.I've seen this on many occasions where my inbox has been bombarded with nothing but religious messages, from of my contacts,yet some have never said hello to me or ask me how i'm doing,let along visited my page.
ReplyDeleteCheryl thanks for saying what most won't dare not to say.It is what it is.:))
Merely a write on my own values - so forward I go with reading and writing. We ALL have a respect and that goes a far way I believe Parrie. Perhaps not all but for those that have an understanding and the value of the a spirit and a smile as well as all the arrays of what is wrote on here are more becoming than unbecoming as it's a area of expression.
ReplyDeleteJack, we are friends and thats what make me feels blessed.Keep posting and I'll keep visiting if nothing more than to say "hello".Smile and have yourself a good night.
ReplyDeleteImo, a Bible Thumper is an Evangelical Christian who reads the Bible every day.
ReplyDeleteI blog about my faith, just as Ken (locarb) and many others on my friend's list do, because it is who we are, it is like the air we breathe.
I do see that you did not visit my blog today as it is about Jesus Christ.
That does not offend me at all. I believe that, as you seem to, we all can live and let live.
Peace.
I have not had the chance, I just arrived home and we all can and for most we all do...
ReplyDeletePeace there Cath...I will come over and read...
Jack,
ReplyDeleteNot many commented on it, for once I wrote a very long blog, because the email it refers to is long.
I almost never post a long blog, people have a short attention span, at least I do.
If you don't comment or read, no problem. Hardly anyone did. When I see long blogs I am prone to move on.
In writing, like geology, KISS is the key for me.
And writing is fun...so within respect and I did step out I shall come back to it but there is a short attention span and I too often will make mistakes with what I read as I forget to place my glasses on I kid you not.
ReplyDeleteBut shall be there to read your blog as I mentioned. So forwards we go...
You worked in the confectionery all day. Sleep.
ReplyDeleteNo I went and got milk and bread...it's just down the street lol.
ReplyDeleteOhhhhhhhh, laughing. Bit of a culture barrier!
ReplyDeleteSomeone smiled! :)
ReplyDeleteI do read your writing about the religion here, Jack..and I believe that you try to share what you are thinking and what you feel and you should.. because you are here in MP to share..
ReplyDeleteReligion is something private for each individual and so do I. I just want to share to you that in my own country, Indonesia, we have 6 religions..sometimes it also can be a problem.. My city itself, Medan, is so unique that you can find all of the religion here can live together and respect each other. Some church location are near the mosque and they can respect each other. I myself believe that whatever our religion, it teach us to respect each other and live beside happily and peacefully. I just take the positive side from the blog posted by your contact that maybe seems like want to "Bible Thumper" you :) They love you and their contacts and just want the God bless you with kindness. Take the positive and we all here can live peacefully. If one day you still feel disturb with that, just stop reading the post :) I wish that you could understand what I mean with my simple english..Wish you have a blessing day, my friend!
Exactly. History is full of the most heinous atrocities committed in the name of some religion.
ReplyDeleteFaith is personal. I was raised very strictly in a fundamentalist church. Now, I have no association with any organized religion, but have a strong faith in the 'creator of all things' no matter what name you use.
Peace to all on your own journey. It would truly be a one dimensional, grayscale existence without all of your voices in this life.
Good posting Jack...I agree with you. All religions never teach their followers to hate what God had created....only the fanatic and the intolerance followers that will justify their wrong doings in the name of God for their own sake. You can find a fanatic followers in every aspect of our lifes ...not only religions followers but also the hobbies...even bloggers LOL.
ReplyDeleteand most of them I say is intolerant to diversity and rarely respect others.(Have you ever noticed how people hate fanatic bloggers like us? LOL.)
I agree with Cleaunz "unity diversity and generosity". I am moslem but I still cite christian authors, western authors, other beliefs' authors.
I still respect their ideas...and I believe it does not reduce my faith to Allah. My beliefs is my private business with the God I believe in.
Sylvia Fang is right, we in Indonesia and Malaysia and most Asian countries use to live together among different religions, cultures, languages....and I think it is democracy and human. If we can not tolerate others, how can we live in peace? Like you know Indonesia have at least 6 religions, almost 100 cultures and ethnicities...all of them have their own faith, beliefs, language and traditions.While Malaysia have 5 religions, 3 races and much diferences also.
So What? We are all are human.
However I suggest some of bloggers here to compare and visit other areas around the world so that they understand that differences make our live worth. Anybody want to visit Indonesia or Malaysia?
Enjoy your life and make it worth full to remember.
Peace from Indonesia/Malaysia/Eastern areas.
Thanks...things did not go over well with this right, in some ways I feel that I should defend my own religious beliefs. But in essence, this was a write of just whom I am, not whom others are. As the old saying goes "to each there own". Kieth did make a remark within here that is very much in unison with my own beliefs. I think that is why in the past we have come to respect each other and we all are within some manner inter connected - it's a very small world from which we live and one could take a person from a variety of faiths and place them at a table and sooner than later they would find that they do have commonalities by way of respect.
ReplyDeleteWith that all said I took a "power sleep" of four hours and I want to get my two computers done. So when I look back at this I feel good about what I have said. I am not sure the word "thumper" should have been used. But ironically there was a saying said of "it is what it is". And yes maybe it is what it can be. Within respect and all.
Peace....
Everyone has a belief, whether its in God or a belief in no God. It is still a belief. My personal belief is that there are many paths to God, and as long as you faithfully travel the path you have chosen you will be fine. As for the atheists.They will find out one of two things. Either they were right or that they were wrong. But I also think that if they are wrong, God won't care,He has an accepting heart..We all need to be a bit more accepting than we are and Lord knows I am darn near perfect when it comes to that. (the last sentence is joking, just in case someone does not realize that)
ReplyDelete"It is what it is" my friend Jack, and you do not have to be embarrass or afraid of what you already have inside you and express it with respect to others. Have a nice sleep Jack :-)
ReplyDeleteBtw, one of my friend a christian in Egypt have some good blogs for maintain our health.Heavesprings.multiply.com
I guess we can have some useful information there. I saw your blog about thank God that you have no cancer though...I think you are lucky ;-)
" I have no association with any organized religion, but have a strong faith in the 'creator of all things' no matter what name you use." This is my agreement! .. I look at it this way Jack, Great Spirit doesn't have a religion, if Spirit did, we'd all be that religion :-)... Namaste' my good friend :-)
ReplyDeleteIt's all good...just got online here after doing computer work - I can't say I like it...but seems to be done...
ReplyDeleteI hope I can add a comment...As a born again believer in Christ Jesus, I am compelled to plant a seed and that is what my blog is all about...planting a seed. I specifically opened my Multiply account to witness to others of my faith. It does not offend me if people don't want to read my blogs. Any time I can share my faith is a blessing to me and I will continue to share...It is my joy, my life. I respect another's option whether to read the blog, comment...etc...it's all good.
ReplyDeleteI am a christian....and to each there own. And it's certain is all good. We all have that very right I have wrote on faith within my blog and within my own manner.
ReplyDeleteAs do others...to each there own. This write ironically stirred things up which in no manner where my intentions. Ironically it caused an effect that I never could have imagined.
Peeks and that is abundance within how I see things. And we all have our own ways and here again this is one write that I never thought would bring about so many thoughts yet at the same time hesitation and anger as within spirit there is a manner of respect.
ReplyDeleteI almost deleted this off...however it was just a write. Namaste to you as well..
Religion's groovy but brotherhood is essential. We all need something to believe in ... something to comfort us ... inspire us ... guide us. That being said ... I shall never understand why it is so important to get dressed to the nines and be good for one full hour every Sunday and then fail to do our 'homework', if you will; for the remainder of the week. Interesting.
ReplyDeleteI attend mass now and then and the brotherhood that you mention is something that is what we do within our days. I feel the acts that we do within life are the meaning of our own spirituality and well it's all good...
ReplyDeletei'm not afraid of the word religion, not afraid of the word faith. i know it means different things to different people. not afraid for others to say what they believe or do not believe. i would rather that all men be honest. i'm not offended when you do or do not believe as i do. if i could i would save the world from non-truths, if i can i will save myself from the same. i didn't see anything in your post that expressed any intolerance toward anyone. i am not offended that your expressions do not always comply with my own. as i see it you always seem to go out of your way to blog in a kindly manner and to welcome everyone. your a decent person, and fair friend jack. blessings.
ReplyDeleteTo be honest with you, this posting is the most attractive blog you have ever posted. Look at how many respondents respond this. Shortly, this is good even though it was pretty shocking :-)
ReplyDeleteEnjoy your life