Thursday, April 2, 2015
Sunday, March 29, 2015
A Prisoner
I have an interesting and sad story to share. And it's all 100% true.
I'm a single guy and I have "needs" just like any other guy. So I posted a listing online looking for a playmate with the potential for a long term relationship.
One girl from Idaho responded - those Idaho girls are so naughty! She was LDS and horny as hell. She frequently sent me naked pictures and talked about all the naughty things she would do to me. We never met in person and all of our correspondence was done via texting.
Of course, me being me, - not trying to be a dick but really wanting to understand - I asked her how she justified her actions, with her LDS belief that any type of sexual activity is immoral. She kind of blew off the question, just stating that no one is perfect and that's what the atonement is for.
Ok, her attitude about that is certainly different than mine was. You don't plan to sin. If it happens, you repent. But if you actively put energy, money, thoughts, and actions into your plan, that just seems hypocritical.
So, of course, that lead to many religious discussions. As any typical believer, she refused to see any type of reason and just clung to her "I know it" defense. All the while, she was very interested in my experiences with other girls, and telling me some of hers with other men. She was a virgin. The most she had ever done was make out and do some petting (petting is a Mormon term for "touching each other's privates"). This, of course, is also forbidden by the Mormon church.
Our religious discussions continued, although I wouldn't really call them discussions. It was more like me asking questions, making statements, and her on the continual defense. I figured if she didn't want to talk about it, then she'd stop talking about it. I pointed out things like:
She shared with me a story where she had met another guy recently and he had basically raped her with a sex toy. Of course, feeling awful about this for both the trauma of the event and the sin aspect of it, she received a priesthood blessing. Other than telling me, this was her little secret to add to the stash of secrets that she and most Mormons hide and carry around with them.
This blessing convinced her to be a good girl. No more naughty texting. No more meeting random dudes from the internet. In one of our religious discussions, I pointed out that a blessing is nothing more than a fortune teller. She responded that, no, it isn't because only a blessing could make her feel this good for this long. I disagree. People pay hundreds and thousands of dollars to fortune tellers. They wouldn't do that if it didn't make them feel good. But I digress.
In the end, she chose to remain in her prison and end our friendship. At one point she actually called me "spawn of Satan", accused me of "living in a hole", and told me that I was miserable and unhappy. Of course, I told her that she was a mental prisoner and a slave of a cult. Tit for tat, I guess.
She was so close to taking that scary step outside, and yet so far away. I don't think she'll ever get out. Her cognitive dissonance (when the mind is presented with two opposing ideas) was very strong. But religion won out. It almost always does. It has such a strong hold on people's minds. She wasn't ready to be set free.
It's like what Morpheus says to Neo in The Matrix movie: "I can only show you the door. You're the one that has to walk through it." I showed her the door. She chose her prison. Sad. But it's her life, her choice. I hope she finds her happiness but I doubt she ever will. She will go to church all her life wearing a fake smile to hide the myriad of secrets that she has buried deep within. This is what religion does to people.
"The best way to keep a people enslaved is to make them believe they are free."
I'm a single guy and I have "needs" just like any other guy. So I posted a listing online looking for a playmate with the potential for a long term relationship.
One girl from Idaho responded - those Idaho girls are so naughty! She was LDS and horny as hell. She frequently sent me naked pictures and talked about all the naughty things she would do to me. We never met in person and all of our correspondence was done via texting.
Of course, me being me, - not trying to be a dick but really wanting to understand - I asked her how she justified her actions, with her LDS belief that any type of sexual activity is immoral. She kind of blew off the question, just stating that no one is perfect and that's what the atonement is for.
Ok, her attitude about that is certainly different than mine was. You don't plan to sin. If it happens, you repent. But if you actively put energy, money, thoughts, and actions into your plan, that just seems hypocritical.
So, of course, that lead to many religious discussions. As any typical believer, she refused to see any type of reason and just clung to her "I know it" defense. All the while, she was very interested in my experiences with other girls, and telling me some of hers with other men. She was a virgin. The most she had ever done was make out and do some petting (petting is a Mormon term for "touching each other's privates"). This, of course, is also forbidden by the Mormon church.
Our religious discussions continued, although I wouldn't really call them discussions. It was more like me asking questions, making statements, and her on the continual defense. I figured if she didn't want to talk about it, then she'd stop talking about it. I pointed out things like:
- If you have the truth, then there is no harm in questioning.
- We are both atheists; I just take it one god further than you do.
- Reality and common sense are beautiful (she claimed her views were common sense).
- And more.
She shared with me a story where she had met another guy recently and he had basically raped her with a sex toy. Of course, feeling awful about this for both the trauma of the event and the sin aspect of it, she received a priesthood blessing. Other than telling me, this was her little secret to add to the stash of secrets that she and most Mormons hide and carry around with them.
This blessing convinced her to be a good girl. No more naughty texting. No more meeting random dudes from the internet. In one of our religious discussions, I pointed out that a blessing is nothing more than a fortune teller. She responded that, no, it isn't because only a blessing could make her feel this good for this long. I disagree. People pay hundreds and thousands of dollars to fortune tellers. They wouldn't do that if it didn't make them feel good. But I digress.
In the end, she chose to remain in her prison and end our friendship. At one point she actually called me "spawn of Satan", accused me of "living in a hole", and told me that I was miserable and unhappy. Of course, I told her that she was a mental prisoner and a slave of a cult. Tit for tat, I guess.
She was so close to taking that scary step outside, and yet so far away. I don't think she'll ever get out. Her cognitive dissonance (when the mind is presented with two opposing ideas) was very strong. But religion won out. It almost always does. It has such a strong hold on people's minds. She wasn't ready to be set free.
It's like what Morpheus says to Neo in The Matrix movie: "I can only show you the door. You're the one that has to walk through it." I showed her the door. She chose her prison. Sad. But it's her life, her choice. I hope she finds her happiness but I doubt she ever will. She will go to church all her life wearing a fake smile to hide the myriad of secrets that she has buried deep within. This is what religion does to people.
"The best way to keep a people enslaved is to make them believe they are free."
Saturday, January 17, 2015
Why Religion Is Harshly Inferior To Science!
Let's start at the beginning!
Creation:
Religion states that god built the world in 7 days only 6,000 years ago. There is no evidence for this other than a really old book that just says so.
Science states that the earth is about 4 billion years old. There are mountains of evidence and studies to support this.
Life on Earth:
Religion teaches that god created each creature on the Earth separately. This is taught in the Bible but it provides is no supporting evidence. It is simply a story.
Science teaches that all life on Earth evolved from a common ancestor. This is universally accepted in the scientific community as fact. However, this is not just because everyone believes it, so it must be true. Instead, it is because almost every branch of science validates it separately.
Origin of Man:
Religion teaches that the first man, Adam, was formed out of clay by god and he came alive after god blew on it. Even religious people know this is not how men are formed. Woman was formed when god took a rib out of Adam and turned it into a woman. Even religious people know this is not how women are formed.
Science teaches that human beings evolved from other life forms over a period of millions of years. Again, this is not just a popular belief, but the culmination of thousands of studies that all arrive at exactly the same conclusion.
Origin of God:
Religion teaches that god has always existed and created everything. Religion claims that the true test of human's worthiness to go to heaven is, in fact, all based on blind faith. If you believe in something you cannot see or prove, this is considered a virtue.
Science has no comment on the origin of god since science does not deal with the supernatural. Science only studies what can be observed and tested. If god could be observed, science would study him. Those people who identify themselves as "free-thinkers" believe that god and religion first came about by early humans asking the questions of why we are here and making up stories to answer those questions. Modern science now has much more informed and accurate answers to these questions.
Agreeability:
There are thousands of different religions that all disagree with each other on who god is, what his doctrine is, and what the conditions are for being saved. Even people within the same faith often disagree among themselves. It seems that no one really has a clue. Old teachings and doctrines are recycled from one generation to the next and generally do not change.
Scientists almost universally agree across every branch of science. Each branch validates the others. Studies done by different scientists yield the same results. Each new scientific claim is tested to be repeatable. If enough different people get the same independent results, then it is accepted. As newer discoveries are made, older ideas are put aside.
Benefits:
Religion really has no benefits other than giving people a sense of superiority and false hope. In fact, religion has been one of the main driving forces behind most of the wars and violence in human history.
Science provides countless benefits. To name a few: corrective eye wear and surgery, automobiles, airplanes, computers, internet, e-mail, cell phones, heat and light, medicine, vaccines, information storage and retrieval, and much, much more.
Other:
Religious teachings are all expected to be taken on faith, even when there is no supporting evidence.
Science is firmly built upon reason, studies, and evidence.
Religion whines that creationism isn't taught in schools.
Science couldn't care less if evolution isn't taught in churches.
Religion teaches that faith can move mountains.
This has never been observed in the natural world.
Religion teaches that natural disasters are the result of god's wrath.
Science understands and can explain the causes of these disasters.
Religion teaches that animals can talk.
This has never been observed in the natural world.
Religion teaches that all evil came from a fruit tree.
This has never been observed in the natural world.
Religion teaches that it is possible for a virgin to be pregnant.
This has never been observed in the natural world.
Religion teaches that dead things can come back to life.
This has never been observed in the natural world.
Religion uses science to promote itself (microphones, televisions, recording devices, printing, and claims that science "proves" god).
Science has never once used religion or faith to promote itself. Anyone claiming that science has proved god is LYING!
Religion is threatened by science.
Science is completely independent of religion.
Religion is based on feelings, faith, the impossible, the invisible, and the incomprehensible.
Science is based upon what can be seen observed and tested.
Religion determines the conclusions, then searches for evidence to fit.
Science looks at the evidence to determine what is most likely correct.
The Bottom Line:
Religion claims to be the ultimate source of unchanging truth and yet those involved in it often disagree on basic concepts. Religion claims to be infallible and the power of god is said to be able to do anything. Even the religious will admit that there is no evidence for this, and they take every day happenstance as evidence that their beliefs are correct. Religion provides people with the idea that they alone are right and therefore superior.
Science does not claim to be the ultimate source of truth. Science is always expanding and adding to existing ideas and information. Scientists are largely in agreement among themselves and across different branches. Science provides a greater understanding of our natural world and has provided countless benefits to all humankind.
“Science flies you to the Moon. Religion flies you into Buildings.”
Creation:
Religion states that god built the world in 7 days only 6,000 years ago. There is no evidence for this other than a really old book that just says so.
Science states that the earth is about 4 billion years old. There are mountains of evidence and studies to support this.
Life on Earth:
Religion teaches that god created each creature on the Earth separately. This is taught in the Bible but it provides is no supporting evidence. It is simply a story.
Science teaches that all life on Earth evolved from a common ancestor. This is universally accepted in the scientific community as fact. However, this is not just because everyone believes it, so it must be true. Instead, it is because almost every branch of science validates it separately.
Origin of Man:
Religion teaches that the first man, Adam, was formed out of clay by god and he came alive after god blew on it. Even religious people know this is not how men are formed. Woman was formed when god took a rib out of Adam and turned it into a woman. Even religious people know this is not how women are formed.
Science teaches that human beings evolved from other life forms over a period of millions of years. Again, this is not just a popular belief, but the culmination of thousands of studies that all arrive at exactly the same conclusion.
Origin of God:
Religion teaches that god has always existed and created everything. Religion claims that the true test of human's worthiness to go to heaven is, in fact, all based on blind faith. If you believe in something you cannot see or prove, this is considered a virtue.
Science has no comment on the origin of god since science does not deal with the supernatural. Science only studies what can be observed and tested. If god could be observed, science would study him. Those people who identify themselves as "free-thinkers" believe that god and religion first came about by early humans asking the questions of why we are here and making up stories to answer those questions. Modern science now has much more informed and accurate answers to these questions.
Agreeability:
There are thousands of different religions that all disagree with each other on who god is, what his doctrine is, and what the conditions are for being saved. Even people within the same faith often disagree among themselves. It seems that no one really has a clue. Old teachings and doctrines are recycled from one generation to the next and generally do not change.
Scientists almost universally agree across every branch of science. Each branch validates the others. Studies done by different scientists yield the same results. Each new scientific claim is tested to be repeatable. If enough different people get the same independent results, then it is accepted. As newer discoveries are made, older ideas are put aside.
Benefits:
Religion really has no benefits other than giving people a sense of superiority and false hope. In fact, religion has been one of the main driving forces behind most of the wars and violence in human history.
Science provides countless benefits. To name a few: corrective eye wear and surgery, automobiles, airplanes, computers, internet, e-mail, cell phones, heat and light, medicine, vaccines, information storage and retrieval, and much, much more.
Other:
Religious teachings are all expected to be taken on faith, even when there is no supporting evidence.
Science is firmly built upon reason, studies, and evidence.
Religion whines that creationism isn't taught in schools.
Science couldn't care less if evolution isn't taught in churches.
Religion teaches that faith can move mountains.
This has never been observed in the natural world.
Religion teaches that natural disasters are the result of god's wrath.
Science understands and can explain the causes of these disasters.
Religion teaches that animals can talk.
This has never been observed in the natural world.
Religion teaches that all evil came from a fruit tree.
This has never been observed in the natural world.
Religion teaches that it is possible for a virgin to be pregnant.
This has never been observed in the natural world.
Religion teaches that dead things can come back to life.
This has never been observed in the natural world.
Religion uses science to promote itself (microphones, televisions, recording devices, printing, and claims that science "proves" god).
Science has never once used religion or faith to promote itself. Anyone claiming that science has proved god is LYING!
Religion is threatened by science.
Science is completely independent of religion.
Religion is based on feelings, faith, the impossible, the invisible, and the incomprehensible.
Science is based upon what can be seen observed and tested.
Religion determines the conclusions, then searches for evidence to fit.
Science looks at the evidence to determine what is most likely correct.
The Bottom Line:
Religion claims to be the ultimate source of unchanging truth and yet those involved in it often disagree on basic concepts. Religion claims to be infallible and the power of god is said to be able to do anything. Even the religious will admit that there is no evidence for this, and they take every day happenstance as evidence that their beliefs are correct. Religion provides people with the idea that they alone are right and therefore superior.
Science does not claim to be the ultimate source of truth. Science is always expanding and adding to existing ideas and information. Scientists are largely in agreement among themselves and across different branches. Science provides a greater understanding of our natural world and has provided countless benefits to all humankind.
“Science flies you to the Moon. Religion flies you into Buildings.”
Friday, January 9, 2015
Oh, To Understand the Religious Mind!
I can't believe I haven't posted since November!
I've been wondering lately - but am too lazy at the moment to go find out - if there is a book about the "Science of Religion".
It would be fascinating to find out if there have ever been any scientific studies on the religious mind and what it is exactly that causes people to cling so desperately to the "truths" they have been raised in from infancy.
Why does the human mind so easily believe such nonsense? Why is it so difficult, nearly impossible in fact, to pull people's minds out of this delusion? Why do people ignore simple facts and believe in ancient myths? Even when presented with the common sense arguments that their beliefs are false, they cling to them desperately. In fact, it only makes their resolve to believe even stronger.
There never has been - and I daresay there never will be - any evidence AT ALL that religion is true and god exists. Religious people often make the claim "there is indisputable evidence of X, Y, and Z" but when asked to produce said evidence they either can't, won't, or just make extremely ignorant arguments.
I am absolutely baffled that we live in such an age where information is so abundant that we have virtually unlimited knowledge streaming right into our homes (thanks to science), and yet the world is still full of people who would give their lives in defense of stone-age stories.
I am dumbfounded.
In fact, that brings a thought to mind. I'm not that great of an artist, so I will write a cartoon with no pictures (if anyone could help, that would be awesome!)
Picture a young religious boy being talked to by his religious leader.
Leader: "With the word of the Lord, you can confound the unbeliever, the wise, and the learned."
Picture now this boy debating with an atheist.
The boy makes some comment and backs it up with a verse from scripture.
The atheist walks away, speechless.
The boy thinks to himself, "He is confounded!"
The atheist thinks to himself, "I am dumbfounded!"
I've been wondering lately - but am too lazy at the moment to go find out - if there is a book about the "Science of Religion".
It would be fascinating to find out if there have ever been any scientific studies on the religious mind and what it is exactly that causes people to cling so desperately to the "truths" they have been raised in from infancy.
Why does the human mind so easily believe such nonsense? Why is it so difficult, nearly impossible in fact, to pull people's minds out of this delusion? Why do people ignore simple facts and believe in ancient myths? Even when presented with the common sense arguments that their beliefs are false, they cling to them desperately. In fact, it only makes their resolve to believe even stronger.
There never has been - and I daresay there never will be - any evidence AT ALL that religion is true and god exists. Religious people often make the claim "there is indisputable evidence of X, Y, and Z" but when asked to produce said evidence they either can't, won't, or just make extremely ignorant arguments.
I am absolutely baffled that we live in such an age where information is so abundant that we have virtually unlimited knowledge streaming right into our homes (thanks to science), and yet the world is still full of people who would give their lives in defense of stone-age stories.
I am dumbfounded.
In fact, that brings a thought to mind. I'm not that great of an artist, so I will write a cartoon with no pictures (if anyone could help, that would be awesome!)
Picture a young religious boy being talked to by his religious leader.
Leader: "With the word of the Lord, you can confound the unbeliever, the wise, and the learned."
Picture now this boy debating with an atheist.
The boy makes some comment and backs it up with a verse from scripture.
The atheist walks away, speechless.
The boy thinks to himself, "He is confounded!"
The atheist thinks to himself, "I am dumbfounded!"
Sunday, November 30, 2014
Christian Love At It's Finest
The following is a word for word email exchange (irrevalent details removed) that I had with a woman a few weeks ago who is obviously Christian. This will blow your mind.
Her: "I believe if I ask anything in Jesus name it shall be received."
Me: "We live in the 21st century.. the information age. We are a little too advanced to be believing in stone-age myths, and talking snakes, and pregnant virgins."
Her: "Wow I took a screen shot of this for safe keeps. It is the folk like yourself that I am intrigued by... I used to be you no sky daddies, but that flying spaghetti monster.
"I hope one day you get to witness the truth of his existence that remove all doubt to activate the change in your life. Everyone get it, I saved this email because when you do get it. It will be fun to laugh at it. Haha"
Me: "So that is your only motivation? To be right? To rub it in my face? That's pathetic. If there is a god, he is facepalming himself right now. His message was to love; not rejoice in the demise of others. You really don't get it, do you?
"Do you know what I get if I'm right? Nothing. If there is no afterlife, I don't get to rub it in anyone's face because none of us will even be there.
"Pride... that is one of Satan's favorite sins.. If there is an afterlife and a judgment and a heaven, I'm closer to getting it than you are.
"Tell me something... If you used to be a FSM follower, what is the event that changed your mind?
I used to be a Jesus follower until I turned on my brain and realized that god having his favorite son tortured to death is not only brutal and disturbing, it is so man made. How exactly does Jesus getting nailed to a cross somehow magically undo all the sin and evil that exists in the world? (That sin exists in the first place because a naked woman was talked into eating an apple by a talking snake). Just tell me that doesn't reek of... stupid.
"Yes, I hope I also get to see the truth of his existence because at that very moment, I will believe.. until then it is a fairy tale and god is just an imaginary friend for grownups.
"Now, since you believe that Jesus will give you anything you ask for, ask him to visit me. If he does, I'll humbly admit that you are right. If he doesn't, well, you can still enjoy basking in your own arrogance anyway."
No further response.
Her: "I believe if I ask anything in Jesus name it shall be received."
Me: "We live in the 21st century.. the information age. We are a little too advanced to be believing in stone-age myths, and talking snakes, and pregnant virgins."
Her: "Wow I took a screen shot of this for safe keeps. It is the folk like yourself that I am intrigued by... I used to be you no sky daddies, but that flying spaghetti monster.
"I hope one day you get to witness the truth of his existence that remove all doubt to activate the change in your life. Everyone get it, I saved this email because when you do get it. It will be fun to laugh at it. Haha"
Me: "So that is your only motivation? To be right? To rub it in my face? That's pathetic. If there is a god, he is facepalming himself right now. His message was to love; not rejoice in the demise of others. You really don't get it, do you?
"Do you know what I get if I'm right? Nothing. If there is no afterlife, I don't get to rub it in anyone's face because none of us will even be there.
"Pride... that is one of Satan's favorite sins.. If there is an afterlife and a judgment and a heaven, I'm closer to getting it than you are.
"Tell me something... If you used to be a FSM follower, what is the event that changed your mind?
I used to be a Jesus follower until I turned on my brain and realized that god having his favorite son tortured to death is not only brutal and disturbing, it is so man made. How exactly does Jesus getting nailed to a cross somehow magically undo all the sin and evil that exists in the world? (That sin exists in the first place because a naked woman was talked into eating an apple by a talking snake). Just tell me that doesn't reek of... stupid.
"Yes, I hope I also get to see the truth of his existence because at that very moment, I will believe.. until then it is a fairy tale and god is just an imaginary friend for grownups.
"Now, since you believe that Jesus will give you anything you ask for, ask him to visit me. If he does, I'll humbly admit that you are right. If he doesn't, well, you can still enjoy basking in your own arrogance anyway."
No further response.
Sunday, November 23, 2014
Why Jesus Dying For You Is Not As Heroic As It Sounds
Or, Why The Resurrection of Jesus Really Isn't That Great
Even back in my believing days, I had a question:
If Jesus loved me and died for my sins, (which is very sweet of him to do) and he had power over death, why is that such a big deal? Why is it a sacrifice if he could just come back to life again?
Jesus has power over death. He dies for me. He comes back to life a few days later.
That's like someone with unlimited resources giving $1,000 to a charity and then taking it back a few days later. If you have the ability to come back to life whenever you want then 1) you're not really dead, but more importantly 2) dying for someone or something isn't anything noble. It's not a sacrifice if you can give something but then take it right back.
It seems that there is no sacrifice at all of the part of Jesus. The soldiers throughout history who have died for our freedoms sacrificed much more than Jesus because they are permanently dead. They gave their LIVES for a cause. JESUS JUST LET US BORROW HIS FOR A WEEKEND! That's not a sacrifice!
Okay, okay, even if the story of the resurrection really was true, that's cool and all. Jesus can come back to life. Wow, I wish I had that power. If someone really did have power over death, there is no question that would be amazing and miraculous. But why does Jesus get all this hype and praise for doing something that, to him, is just another day at the beach?
And why was all this necessary in the first place? God's great "plan" to counteract the effects of sin are to have Jesus tortured to death... Ok, and what is that supposed to accomplish? How does Jesus' death translate into salvation for everyone who believes it happened? And why is belief the only condition on which this "sacrifice" is predicated?
The more I think about it, the more absurd it becomes and the more questions are raised. But the main point of this post is to show that:
EVEN IF THE WHOLE STORY WAS TRUE, JESUS DIDN'T SACRIFICE SHIT FOR YOU!!!
Even back in my believing days, I had a question:
If Jesus loved me and died for my sins, (which is very sweet of him to do) and he had power over death, why is that such a big deal? Why is it a sacrifice if he could just come back to life again?
Jesus has power over death. He dies for me. He comes back to life a few days later.
That's like someone with unlimited resources giving $1,000 to a charity and then taking it back a few days later. If you have the ability to come back to life whenever you want then 1) you're not really dead, but more importantly 2) dying for someone or something isn't anything noble. It's not a sacrifice if you can give something but then take it right back.
It seems that there is no sacrifice at all of the part of Jesus. The soldiers throughout history who have died for our freedoms sacrificed much more than Jesus because they are permanently dead. They gave their LIVES for a cause. JESUS JUST LET US BORROW HIS FOR A WEEKEND! That's not a sacrifice!
Okay, okay, even if the story of the resurrection really was true, that's cool and all. Jesus can come back to life. Wow, I wish I had that power. If someone really did have power over death, there is no question that would be amazing and miraculous. But why does Jesus get all this hype and praise for doing something that, to him, is just another day at the beach?
And why was all this necessary in the first place? God's great "plan" to counteract the effects of sin are to have Jesus tortured to death... Ok, and what is that supposed to accomplish? How does Jesus' death translate into salvation for everyone who believes it happened? And why is belief the only condition on which this "sacrifice" is predicated?
The more I think about it, the more absurd it becomes and the more questions are raised. But the main point of this post is to show that:
EVEN IF THE WHOLE STORY WAS TRUE, JESUS DIDN'T SACRIFICE SHIT FOR YOU!!!
Sunday, November 16, 2014
The Missing Secret Ingredient: The Real Reason Why Diets Don't Work
They are missing faith!
Browsing through the book section of the nearby grocery store, I came across this precious gem: The Pray Fit Diet: The Revolutionary Faith-Based Plan to Balance Your Plate and Shed Weight.
Seriously? I have a million thoughts on this and don't even know where to begin. I need faith in order to balance my plate? I need religion in order to exercise and live a healthier life? If I don't lose weight using this system, is it because I didn't have enough faith? Am I supposed to pray and have god give me the will power to eat better and exercise? What if you're not Christian? Does that mean all non-Christians are doomed to a life of being overweight?
I didn't even pick up the book to read the back cover, I was so busy just face-palming myself. So I admit that I have no idea what is contained on the pages of this book. But if it is anything like the other "faith-based" stuff I've seen, then it's virtually worthless.
I just don't get it. How is faith supposed to help anyone lose weight? How are these two concepts (health and religion) even remotely connected to each other?
I would argue that they are not! In fact, I know a good, many LDS people who strictly follow the Word of Wisdom. In exchange for following it, they are promised that they will "run and not be weary and will walk and not faint". However, I have literally known some people who cannot walk because they are so out of shape and yet they follow the Word of Wisdom.
Other religions forbid certain food. Pork is a meal rejected by Jews and Hindus and perhaps others. The Bible forbids the eating of shellfish. But there is no scientific study that I am aware of that shows any of these things are actually bad for the body when eaten in moderation. Even alcohol can be beneficial.
I am going to try it. A faith-based diet. I am going to have hope and faith that over the next six months, I will shed some of my extra. I am going to put it all into god's hands. In other words, I plan to do absolutely nothing and expect that I will get positive results. Remember, if it's faith-based, then you cannot add any works to it. If I put in any effort, then that means I don't trust in god.
The sad part is that I am sure there are actually people who buy this book and think it will work. I mean, there is nothing wrong with wanting to get into better shape, but there is one way that is done: eat better and be more active. That is what works.
If it ain't broke, don't fix it. The way to get in better shape ain't broke. It doesn't need to be fixed. If you want to lose weight, go make it happen. But trying to use faith is just another way to say you want to do nothing and still get the results.
Sheesh.....
Browsing through the book section of the nearby grocery store, I came across this precious gem: The Pray Fit Diet: The Revolutionary Faith-Based Plan to Balance Your Plate and Shed Weight.
Seriously? I have a million thoughts on this and don't even know where to begin. I need faith in order to balance my plate? I need religion in order to exercise and live a healthier life? If I don't lose weight using this system, is it because I didn't have enough faith? Am I supposed to pray and have god give me the will power to eat better and exercise? What if you're not Christian? Does that mean all non-Christians are doomed to a life of being overweight?
I didn't even pick up the book to read the back cover, I was so busy just face-palming myself. So I admit that I have no idea what is contained on the pages of this book. But if it is anything like the other "faith-based" stuff I've seen, then it's virtually worthless.
I just don't get it. How is faith supposed to help anyone lose weight? How are these two concepts (health and religion) even remotely connected to each other?
I would argue that they are not! In fact, I know a good, many LDS people who strictly follow the Word of Wisdom. In exchange for following it, they are promised that they will "run and not be weary and will walk and not faint". However, I have literally known some people who cannot walk because they are so out of shape and yet they follow the Word of Wisdom.
Other religions forbid certain food. Pork is a meal rejected by Jews and Hindus and perhaps others. The Bible forbids the eating of shellfish. But there is no scientific study that I am aware of that shows any of these things are actually bad for the body when eaten in moderation. Even alcohol can be beneficial.
I am going to try it. A faith-based diet. I am going to have hope and faith that over the next six months, I will shed some of my extra. I am going to put it all into god's hands. In other words, I plan to do absolutely nothing and expect that I will get positive results. Remember, if it's faith-based, then you cannot add any works to it. If I put in any effort, then that means I don't trust in god.
The sad part is that I am sure there are actually people who buy this book and think it will work. I mean, there is nothing wrong with wanting to get into better shape, but there is one way that is done: eat better and be more active. That is what works.
If it ain't broke, don't fix it. The way to get in better shape ain't broke. It doesn't need to be fixed. If you want to lose weight, go make it happen. But trying to use faith is just another way to say you want to do nothing and still get the results.
Sheesh.....
Sunday, October 26, 2014
A Proud Missionary Mom
Within the last month, I have had a cousin enter the MTC and travel to his assigned mission.
His mother - my aunt - is one proud missionary mother. Almost every day she posts on FB something about his mission, how choice and righteous he is, how proud she is, blah blah blah.
I have noticed that the LDS church isn't just a church. It isn't just a lifestyle.
It is their identity.
I know that her proud feelings as a missionary mother are genuine. I'm not trying to downplay them or make her look bad.
She is a missionary mother! It is her short moment to be in the spot light. To a Mormon parent, there is almost no higher honor than raising a child who serves a faithful mission. And she is certainly taking every opportunity to make sure every body knows it!
I just can't help but think that if a person received true joy from their child serving a faithful mission, wouldn't that joy be it's own reward? There would be no need to smear it all over FB. It almost seems to me like a desperate cry for validation.
Because that's what Mormon life is really all about. Fitting in. Conformity. Appearances.
I would really appreciate your thoughts. Am I reading too much into it? Am I being too critical?
His mother - my aunt - is one proud missionary mother. Almost every day she posts on FB something about his mission, how choice and righteous he is, how proud she is, blah blah blah.
I have noticed that the LDS church isn't just a church. It isn't just a lifestyle.
It is their identity.
I know that her proud feelings as a missionary mother are genuine. I'm not trying to downplay them or make her look bad.
She is a missionary mother! It is her short moment to be in the spot light. To a Mormon parent, there is almost no higher honor than raising a child who serves a faithful mission. And she is certainly taking every opportunity to make sure every body knows it!
I just can't help but think that if a person received true joy from their child serving a faithful mission, wouldn't that joy be it's own reward? There would be no need to smear it all over FB. It almost seems to me like a desperate cry for validation.
Because that's what Mormon life is really all about. Fitting in. Conformity. Appearances.
I would really appreciate your thoughts. Am I reading too much into it? Am I being too critical?
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
Freedom
I want to talk about freedom. I'm not even sure what I want to say really. I just remember being taught that to obey the commandments was not a restriction - as it seems at first glance - but rather it is freedom.
It does seem like a restriction to the young boy or girl who wants to explore forbidden things.
But on second thought, it does make some sense. Abstaining from sex and alcohol definitely does have it's pluses.
As an ex-Mormon, I never cease to feel the overwhelming sense of relief that comes from having the oppressive church off my shoulders. But, ironically, I continue to live a moral life that is not unlike the teachings of the church.
I partake of the occasional alcoholic drink. I have a coffee almost every morning. While I do engage in sexual activity, it is responsible and careful.
Yes, in many ways, living the Mormon gospel is somewhat freedom. It may seem restricting but the avoiding of these things very well could prevent real disaster in the future.
However, engaging in these activities is also not wrong if done carefully and responsibly.
I would argue that it is not the action itself which is dangerous. Nor is it the possible negative outcomes. We all need to live and learn. Sometimes the only way is the hard way.
I would argue that the dangerousness of it all is the horrible guilt and shame that the church heaps freely upon those who slip. It is the being made to feel unclean, unworthy, and unrighteous. Putting a child through this guilt is ABUSE! It takes a long time, if ever, to undo all the self-loathing and feelings of failure and despair.
If you are a Mormon parent reading these word right now, I would encourage you to look past your need to defend your beliefs and take a good, hard look at what you are doing to your children.
You are teaching them to hate themselves simply for having normal feelings and desires. Guide your children in their young decisions. Correct them if necessary. But DO NOT EVER make them feel like less of a person. It does damage that could easily affect them for the rest of their lives.
The Mormon gospel is supposed to be the only source of true joy and happiness. Yet, I look at Mormon people, and I do not see happiness. I see a bunch of people with self-esteems shot to hell. Each of them is running around desperately trying to appear worthy and righteous. To keep up appearances. This is not healthy and it certainly is not freedom.
It does seem like a restriction to the young boy or girl who wants to explore forbidden things.
But on second thought, it does make some sense. Abstaining from sex and alcohol definitely does have it's pluses.
As an ex-Mormon, I never cease to feel the overwhelming sense of relief that comes from having the oppressive church off my shoulders. But, ironically, I continue to live a moral life that is not unlike the teachings of the church.
I partake of the occasional alcoholic drink. I have a coffee almost every morning. While I do engage in sexual activity, it is responsible and careful.
Yes, in many ways, living the Mormon gospel is somewhat freedom. It may seem restricting but the avoiding of these things very well could prevent real disaster in the future.
However, engaging in these activities is also not wrong if done carefully and responsibly.
I would argue that it is not the action itself which is dangerous. Nor is it the possible negative outcomes. We all need to live and learn. Sometimes the only way is the hard way.
I would argue that the dangerousness of it all is the horrible guilt and shame that the church heaps freely upon those who slip. It is the being made to feel unclean, unworthy, and unrighteous. Putting a child through this guilt is ABUSE! It takes a long time, if ever, to undo all the self-loathing and feelings of failure and despair.
If you are a Mormon parent reading these word right now, I would encourage you to look past your need to defend your beliefs and take a good, hard look at what you are doing to your children.
You are teaching them to hate themselves simply for having normal feelings and desires. Guide your children in their young decisions. Correct them if necessary. But DO NOT EVER make them feel like less of a person. It does damage that could easily affect them for the rest of their lives.
The Mormon gospel is supposed to be the only source of true joy and happiness. Yet, I look at Mormon people, and I do not see happiness. I see a bunch of people with self-esteems shot to hell. Each of them is running around desperately trying to appear worthy and righteous. To keep up appearances. This is not healthy and it certainly is not freedom.
Thursday, September 25, 2014
"Bless You"
Is it just me, or is it terribly annoying when someone says "Bless You" whenever you sneeze? I realize it is a social courtesy of politeness, but is it really necessary? What is the purpose of blessing someone for a natural bodily function? How come we don't have social niceties for when someone burps, or coughs, or farts?
I'm not necessarily offended when someone says "Bless You." I know they are simply trying to be polite. But it does get old having to thank someone for giving me an undesired and unnecessary blessing. Does anyone else feel this way?
Why do we do it?
A quick internet search revealed a few possible origins for this practice. One of which was the bubonic plague in which a sneeze meant you were probably infected and a "bless you" was used in hopes of warding off the disease.
Another possible origin is the folk belief that a sneeze open up a person's soul and would therefore allow evil spirits to enter the body. "Bless You" was believed to be a sort of shield against evil.
Of course now, thanks to science, we know that a "Bless You" does not stop an illness from spreading. And religion has always had irrational beliefs that have no evidence that they actually work or are even necessary.
Whatever the source, it is an unnecessary social pleasantry that I would personally love to see disappear.
Thoughts?
I'm not necessarily offended when someone says "Bless You." I know they are simply trying to be polite. But it does get old having to thank someone for giving me an undesired and unnecessary blessing. Does anyone else feel this way?
Why do we do it?
A quick internet search revealed a few possible origins for this practice. One of which was the bubonic plague in which a sneeze meant you were probably infected and a "bless you" was used in hopes of warding off the disease.
Another possible origin is the folk belief that a sneeze open up a person's soul and would therefore allow evil spirits to enter the body. "Bless You" was believed to be a sort of shield against evil.
Of course now, thanks to science, we know that a "Bless You" does not stop an illness from spreading. And religion has always had irrational beliefs that have no evidence that they actually work or are even necessary.
Whatever the source, it is an unnecessary social pleasantry that I would personally love to see disappear.
Thoughts?
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