What do you believe in...

[peacechicka1]

Or where are your beliefs?

I, personally, believe in God. I would not call myself a Christian because so many people label me as being a church-goer, someone who never cusses, reads the Bible or does Bible study, etc. I am totally the opposite. Just one of those loving, treehugging Jesus Freaks.

I believe Jesus as my God, however I do NOT EVER shove it down people's throats.

I believe in RESPECTING Mother Nature/Mother Earth. I even call the Earth our Mother.

I respect every single person's beliefs as long as they do not disturb the peace or kill anyone. I go by Jesus' word, which is love thy neighbor as thy self and your enemy. I have friends that are Wiccan, Buddist, Hindu, Athiest and I think they are awesome people.

I haven't even read the whole Bible! So who am I to judge anyone, even if I did read it, I would still respect you all...

So now that I have told you a little about my beliefs or whatnot, tell me about your's ~ This world is soooo big and interesting beyond belief, and with soooooo many lovely brothers & sisters to share it with ~ So tell me without fear of me making fun/bashing you. I love hearing about what everyone believes in because difference is something that is awesome in this world! Yay Diversity!

(This isnt a bible discussion or a session where someone asks me something about Christianity and me answering, this is me listening to what others believe in and talking to them about it!)

Chitter Chatter on!


Peace
*Peacechicka*
ONE <3

[xexon]

I have no beliefs.

It's not that I believe in nothing, it's that I have no need of beliefs.

Beliefs are attachments. Lenses, which focus your attention to a confined area.

Since this is a world of dual natures, the ability to focus has to be steered to reflect what one believes to be of a positive or negative nature.

Where is the freedom in that?



x

[hippie_chick666]

I am still working on getting rid of that crutch, although there is no work to be done. I am slowly realizing the apparent paradoxes of this world, one step at a time. The secret: look within.

Peace and love

[Okiefreak]

I have no beliefs.
I find that hard to believe!

[Bl4ck3n3D]

I agree with xexon.

Besides, I could not define my "beliefs" if I wanted to.

[peacechicka1]

I am not that religious at all, I love being free from being labelled a christian, and people usually accept me as I am. Some people are like " well you are a christian then blah blah blah.." No I am who I am and want to be.

I like hearing people's responses/beliefs, tell on!

[Eugene]

Obama and Santa Claus.

[radareyes]

I have no beliefs.

It's not that I believe in nothing, it's that I have no need of beliefs.

Beliefs are attachments. Lenses, which focus your attention to a confined area.

Since this is a world of dual natures, the ability to focus has to be steered to reflect what one believes to be of a positive or negative nature.

Where is the freedom in that?



x

Beliefs aren't attachments. However, one can form attachments to beliefs. The freedom lies not in abandoning beliefs, but in realizing that your identity is not derived from them.

Travis

[peacechicka1]

I agree on that, I am not attached to Christianity, I am loved by my God, but not some religion. Just because I believe in God, doesnt mean I act Godly and perfect, never.

[babyhellfire]

I don't know.Something between agnostic,and Buddhist..just my own path i will probably never feel comfortable labeling

[heywood floyd]

I believe in keeping your mind open, following your instincts and listening to what other people say only if you're 100 percent certain that they themselves know.

[themnax]

not pretending to know what is not known, but also that there are many things we don't need to even pretend to know in order to feel and experience.

that it is possible, even probable, for one or more, really powerful and wishing us no harm to exist, without any system of organized belief having to have the slightest idea what it is talking about.

that whatever does exist, the avoidance of screwing everything up for each other, reamains up to us.

that lots of little furry invisible friends exist too, and none of them are at war with anybody.

=^^=
.../\...

[peacechicka1]

If you are talking about animals, I admire animals more than humanity because they are so pure & act totally to their nature. They don't backstab, and if they do it's to eat...but anyway

I ,myself, am not a big fan of organized religion, and i hate extremism in defense of any religion, that's no virtue...

Live and let live sounds groovy to me! ~

[memo]

I guess I would be considered an atheist. I lack a belief in any god or supernatural being(s). I believe there are things which cannot be explained and things beyond my comprehension but I do not pretend to know whether or not there is a god. Some would consider that stance as agnostic but when you get down to the base of the matter, agnostics are atheists because of a lack of belief. We can argue semantics over what atheism/agnosticism is/isn't and the strong/weak aspects but not professing to any belief boils down to atheism. With that said, I have no problem with someone that believes in whatever, as long as they adhere to logic and reason. The problem arises when they insist their world view is the only correct view and force their view unto others.

[peacechicka1]

that's groovy memo ~ you are what you are. The problem I have with "organized religion" is that it can lead to extremism which shows no virtues at all and starts wars. I love my God, however I would NEVER shove my beliefs down people's throats.

[Hryhorii]

I, personally, believe in God. I would not call myself a Christian because so many people label me as being a church-goer, someone who never cusses, reads the Bible or does Bible study, etc. I am totally the opposite. Just one of those loving, treehugging Jesus Freaks.
I never understood this. Why are you afraid apparently to call yourself a Christian? Would a Muslim who doesn't bomb people not call him/herself a Muslim simply because he doesn't want to be labeled. No, he/she would fight the label (metaphoically). They would live a peaceful life, a kind life, explaining their faith when someone makes inaccurate comments, while respecting others.

Would an atheist not want to call himself an atheist if they found Dawkins distasteful and not want to be labeled as an arrogant, hateful, and possess a holier-than-thou attitude? No. That is just stupid. I don't understand why Christians do not want to be called Christians.

[Hryhorii]

If you are talking about animals, I admire animals more than humanity because they are so pure & act totally to their nature. They don't backstab, and if they do it's to eat...but anyway
People are as pure as animals. The only reason we see animals as "pure" is because we forget that we have the same inate drives as them. We desire to pass on our genes. How do we do that? We have lots of sex (if we are boys). Girls of mamillian species usually try to pick one good mate (and if possible, make him stick around to help withe the offspring).

How do boys attract females to have lots of sex. Money. how do you get money? Well one way is to backstab people to get ahead. (Please note I did not imply that women are attracted to money. Women would be attracted to the prospect of a mate that can help raise children...)

Love complicates everything, and clouds all of our "animal" desires.

[Hryhorii]

that's groovy memo ~ you are what you are. The problem I have with "organized religion" is that it can lead to extremism which shows no virtues at all and starts wars. I love my God, however I would NEVER shove my beliefs down people's throats.
How does organized religion lead to extremism. Desire for power, to better your own situation, etc. leads to extremism.

As long as there was totemism, there has been organized religion. Basically as long as there has been any form of spirituality, there has been organized religion (in the sense that the sacred and profane are seperated by distinct boundaries and they each have specific decorum codes)

[Okiefreak]

How does organized religion lead to extremism. Desire for power, to better your own situation, etc. leads to extremism.As long as there was totemism, there has been organized religion. Basically as long as there has been any form of spirituality, there has been organized religion (in the sense that the sacred and profane are seperated by distinct boundaries and they each have specific decorum codes)I think what most people mean by organized religion is institutionally organized religion. When certain people like shamans began to specialized in offering spiritual advice and rituals, organized religion began. These specialists develop a vested interest in preserving and expanding their role, since it offers status, power, and often wealth. They may earn their keep, by helping people find meaning, solace, and a sense of control over their lives and environment. But being human, these "holy people" face constant temptation to abuse their power, consciously or unconsciously. Then we get extremism. But the same thing happens in government hierarchies and economic hierarchies, too. Think Dick Cheney and Halliburton.

[Hryhorii]

I think what most people mean by organized religion is institutionally organized religion. When certain people like shamans began to specialized in offering spiritual advice and rituals, organized religion began. These specialists develop a vested interest in preserving and expanding their role, since it offers status, power, and often wealth. They may earn their keep, by helping people find meaning, solace, and a sense of control over their lives and environment. But being human, these "holy people" face constant temptation to abuse their power, consciously or unconsciously. Then we get extremism. But the same thing happens in government hierarchies and economic hierarchies, too. Think Dick Cheney and Halliburton.
Ok, yes. I see what you mean by the difference between an organized hierarchy as opposed to accepted cultural norms in relation to the sacred.

I still disagree that having or belonging to an organized religion leads to extremism, I think extremism is not hindered by organized religion (which can have people all patting each other on the back for a hypothetical extremist cause), but that doesn't necessarily mean causation.

[Okiefreak]

Ok, yes. I see what you mean by the difference between an organized hierarchy as opposed to accepted cultural norms in relation to the sacred.

I still disagree that having or belonging to an organized religion leads to extremism, I think extremism is not hindered by organized religion (which can have people all patting each other on the back for a hypothetical extremist cause), but that doesn't necessarily mean causation.The term "extremism" is difficult. I think there can be lots of extremists outside organized religion. I guess you could consider Jesus and Mohammed as "extremists' in one sense of the word, in insisting on radical, uncompromising change in the religious status quo. Cults and sects typically begin as loosely organized groupings around a leader, and we don't generally think of them at that stage as "organized religion". And there can be "lone wolf" fanatics, as well. I guess I was thinking of the development of Christianity, from Jesus' disciples and the informal groupings of Nazarenes and Ebionites in the first century to the Church of the fourth century and afterwards. The persecutions of heretics began when the Church felt powerful enough to move against the oppostion. Extremism, in this sense, involves violence and intolerance.

[radareyes]

I still disagree that having or belonging to an organized religion leads to extremism, I think extremism is not hindered by organized religion (which can have people all patting each other on the back for a hypothetical extremist cause), but that doesn't necessarily mean causation.


I believe if you look at the exact quote by peacechicka1 you'll find that it says that organized religion can lead to extremism. No one ever said anything about organized religion dictating the existence of extremism.

One thing that can be truthfully said about organized religion however: dependency on it precludes the possibility of an authentic relationship with spirit, which can never be confined by the structural framework inherent in any given organized religion.

Travis

[Hryhorii]

I believe if you look at the exact quote by peacechicka1 you'll find that it says that organized religion can lead to extremism. No one ever said anything about organized religion dictating the existence of extremism.
That is true as well.

I basically concede my post questioning peachchicka's comments pertaining to extremism and organized religion.

[radareyes]

That is true as well.

I basically concede my post questioning peachchicka's comments pertaining to extremism and organized religion.

Wow, I'm impressed. Excercising the humility necessary to concede a position during a debate/argument is rare in real life and almost unheard of during internet-based exchanges. Nice job. :)

Travis

[KJohns24029]

I was raised christian and then went satanist in high school. Half way through hig school I decided to be agnostic but I didn't really care cause I was always on drugs. Then I became buddhist for a while and realozed its not for me. Now I'm agnostic again. There is a higher power/powers but not that of orginized religion in my opinion.

[peacechicka1]

Sorry I have missed this debate, sadly, but I have been busy...

Well, what I mean, to clear things up, about "organized religion" and "extremism", is you simply dont go around knocking on doors and putting a bible, torah, quran, whatever in someone's face. It's just rude for one, and very aggitating for 2. You dont raid into the streets saying "anyone who doesnt accept islam will die." That's just taking your beliefs too far. I have NO problem with people believing in a religion at all, I just don't think that it is morally right to proclaim one religion should be supreme over all, or shoving it down people's throats, or anything along those lines.

If they live peacefully with my decision to believe in God, and I respect them as well, then it should NEVER matter what any one believes. I am tolerant with all beliefs AS long as the followers don't try to kill me, burn my house down, or anything EXTREME like that. That's just crazy to do.

And you asked me, Hryhorii, why I don't consider myself a Christian ( not to bring old things up)...

Well, it is basically my personal choice, and I dont expect anybody to understand at all. I just dont like being labelled a Christian because people, for the most part perhaps, think of me a church-going, bible thumping, goodygoody. Which I am NOT at all. I am not perfect whatsoever, lol. But that could be the closest explanation as to why I dont consider myself a Christian, take it or leave. =)


Peace

[radareyes]

I was raised christian and then went satanist in high school. Half way through hig school I decided to be agnostic but I didn't really care cause I was always on drugs. Then I became buddhist for a while and realozed its not for me. Now I'm agnostic again. There is a higher power/powers but not that of orginized religion in my opinion.

Ever thought about checking out shamanism? It's not satanist, but it does circumvent the rigid dogmatism of organized Christianity. It's also not Buddhist, but like Buddhism it recognizes the omnipresent nature of spirit/tao/love/consciousness, which it seems to me you may be alluding to in your final statement.

Not to mention the fact that some branches of shamanism incorporate the use of psychotropic drugs for the purposes of inducing higher states of consciousness.

There's a path for everyone I say. :)

Travis

[Hryhorii]

I am not perfect whatsoever, lol.
I do not think any Christian should claim this anyways. I still do not understand though. Oh well...

[peacechicka1]

yeah oh well, like i said i dont expect anybody to understand, just live & let live =) Peace bro

[gesone]

I believe that everyone should follow their own path at all times to avoid regrets.

[peacechicka1]

indeed gesome.

[Okiefreak]

misfeed

[Holy Ancient Megumi]

lakota traditons

[Varuna]

I believe in God. I believe God is a name for the omni-transcendent unity, the primal quality, of all things, therefore, no one can define God. EVERY definition is incomplete in comparison to the reality.

I believe the measure of one's development, of one's humanity, is directly evident in their primal (spiritual, intellectual, existential?) relationship to "God." What one thinks "God" is, what one understands, how one behaves, who one IS in relationship to the divine, all of these things are what makes one fully human.

I believe Jesus was fully human. An extraordinary Rabbi who sacrificed everything he had in order to bring humanity at least one step (or as many steps as one would take) closer to realizing the essence and nature of "God."

Of course, if God transcends all "things" then God transcends Jesus. I respect, admire and love the man as much as anyone, and I firmly believe Jesus is just as much an incarnation of God as any other human being, but I have to believe "God" is more than even Jesus' definition. Christianity is a great thing, but I believe there is more than all that is defined by Christian belief. Who knows?

I also live in awe of nature. I have no clue how to create anything as good as nature. Whatever entity or process has brought all of this into being is beyond me and my humble talents.

I believe every religion offers great wisdom to anyone who would genuinely love to know it. I also believe every religion can be, and has been, unfortunately, abused by those who fear more than they love.

With absolute sincerity of purpose, I have lived with and studied Christianity, Buddhism, Rastafarianism, Hinduism, and (with somewhat less direct experience) Islam. I spent a few teenage years as a deeply mired agnostic and once, for reasons I no longer remember, even thought I may be an Atheist. I still have a deep respect and admiration for each of these traditions, though, personally, I would have to tune out far too much to really accept Atheism at face value.

I am now deeply involved in the study and practice of Judaism. From the most primal level to the most abstract, it is far more than I thought any "religion" could be.

I have read and studied the every word of the Torah several times, with a Rabbi. I have also read and studied the Gospels (especially Matthew), The Bhagavad Gita, The Ramayana, The Dhammapada, the Tao Te Ching and numerous inspired writings by such Mystics as Abraham Joshua Heschel, Alan Watts, Maimonides, J. Krishnamurti, Adin Steinsaltz, William Sloan Coffin, and Rabbi M. M. Schneerson.

In my humble opinion, no one has captured the entirety of the divine in a single book, but there is extraordinary insight available to anyone who seeks it.

Peace and Love