“Kumbaya”

I just want my readers to be aware that there is more out there in the way of religions/faiths/beliefs than what they know, then what they are familiar with, and just because someone isn't a Christian doesn't mean that they are a terrorist and/or an ungodly heathen.

Here is a look at some different religions/faiths/beliefs and other’s prospective on Christianity as a whole. You never know, what you read here may just open your eyes to what is happening in the world outside your personal bubble and how the masses view your religion/faith/belief.

Let me introduce you to:

(The names/answers are color coded to make it easier to know who said what)

David Litster

I'm 44, a Navy vet, studied Physics in College but never finished, have 4 kids, will be divorced later this month.

Rich Rumple

Writer, Blogger, Comedian, Sith of Sarcasm, and Believer in Individual Thought. A traveler into the world of fiction, fantasy and 50 Shades of Sleeping. A realist and survivor of too many years of listening to the ignorance of politicians, actors, and the “I” Generation. Attended Indiana University by candlelight and oil lantern. Currently resides in the hostile land of UK fans in Kentucky.

Blog List:

That's Life ... Sometimes! http://richrumple.blogspot.com

Gabriela: The Demon Cat http://richrumple4.blogspot.com/

The Old Bastard's Outhouse http://oldbastardsouthouse.blogspot.com/

Twitter:@richrumple1

Tara Weng

Twitter: @TLWeng74

Starr Bryson

Starr works from her home in Pittsburgh as a freelance writer.  Her professional work includes editing, Social Media marketing and management, ghost writing, content management and SEO for websites, and entertainment journalism.  In the past, she has taught classes at writers’ conferences in Pittsburgh about freelancing as a career and the best practices for blogging and social media.

Starr’s creative writing ranges from humor laced snarkfests, gritty and painfully raw non-fiction all the way to the dark world of Erotica. The author behind The Insomniac's Dream, she claims blogging was only the beginning of an amazing freelancing career.

In her spare time, Starr writes fiction and is working on a paranormal novel and companion serial.  In addition, she writes short stories and manages a local writing group.  When she’s not writing, Starr is kept busy by her two hilarious and fantastically disgusting boys.

Starr enjoys adult grape juice, reading in her non-existent spare time, the occasional Netflix binge, and connecting with other writers and her readers.  She loves Halloween, Zombies, and all things horror. She aspires to be a Vampire someday.

Her claim to fame is her caustic wit, copious swears, and an ongoing battle with insomnia.  You can catch up with Starr on her blog, Facebook, and Twitter.  You can see what Starr has published by visiting her Amazon Author Page.

Stephanie Lucas

1. What is your religion/faith/belief of choice?

David Litster: I am a Latter-Day Saint, but I am heterodox.

Rich Rumple: Okay, as the Sith of Sarcasm, I would normally make fun of any and all topics.  However, with my age getting closer to the “no longer here” stage, religion is a topic I have to talk about seriously. 

I am of the Christian faith and believe in God, but refuse to label myself with denominational labels.  Those are for those that follow the words of men instead of God.  Instead, I worship within (and at home) with the help of the Bible.

Tara Weng: I am an atheist or irreligious by choice.

Starr Bryson: If asked to label myself, I would say that I’m a solitary practitioner of the Wiccan faith.   Although many of my beliefs stem from various other spiritual practices, at the end of the day, I am a Solitary Witch.

The beautiful part of being Wiccan/Pagan is the ability to pick and choose what parts of the faith fit you; your lifestyle, personal beliefs, and how you choose to practice and apply those to a spiritual lifestyle that works best for you.

There’s this old saying that if you asked any ten Wiccans about their faith, you’ll get at least fifteen different answers.  We do not have one governing body over our faith or a “Bible” with a universal set of rules.  Although we do vary from one tradition to the next – and even more so among the solitaries- there are a few ideals common to nearly all Wiccan and Pagan groups.

Most of us are an eclectic mix of the basic principles:  Karma, being responsible for your own actions, and Harm None (“and harm ye none”).  Many Wiccans believe in the power of 3 – everything you put out into the world, good or bad, will come back to you threefold.

Basically, we’re not assholes.  We truly do believe in Karma.  And much more than the Christian counterpart of “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you,” we have actual consequences for our bad behaviors.  Whatever we do, however we treat people, will return to bite us in the ass.  So we strive to be good to ourselves, one another, and the Earth. 

This is my take on the faith, ask another Witch, and you might get a different answer.  The only tried and true “rule” is the belief in harming none and Karma.

Stephanie Lucas: I live in a dual reality and coexist in several dimensions simultaneously – as an astral traveler and universal observer of energetic beings. So, whatever THAT religion is…I’m there.

2. What brought you to said religion/faith/belief?

David Litster: I was raised in the church, left when I was a teenager, and as I returned to god, this is where the spirit has led me.  As my faith matured, I have come to believe that there are myriad roads to God, and that it is never my place to judge how another gets there.

Rich Rumple: I was born of Catholic faith via my mother.  We moved from the East Coast to a small town in Indiana which had no Catholic church, so I ended up going to a non-denominational Christian church with my grandparents at times.  Over the years, I attended a Pentecostal Holiness church, an A.M.E. church in the extreme South, and various Baptist churches before finally getting fed up with the preaching that was biased and slanted towards satisfying men instead of God. 

Tara Weng: I was raised Catholic and forced to go to CCD and church while my parents did not. I didn't really buy into what the church was selling and I wasn't a fan of the way women were represented by the church.

Starr Bryson: What a long and arduous adventure this was.  I was born into a Southern Baptist family, the granddaughter of a preacher who believed in the old ways and spouted hell and brimstone from his pulpit.  Truth be told, their God scared the ever loving shit out of me.

As a teenager I dabbled in Catholicism.  I joined my best friend’s church, attended Mass with her, went to all of the summer camps for teens, and really felt I had found my place. 

But, it wasn’t exactly right, and eventually I felt out of place in the Catholic Church.  I tried other Christian branches – Pentecostal, Evangelical, Nazarene, you name it, I tried it.  I studied with friends of the Buddhist faith and even researched Mormonism, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Judaism, Jehovah’s Witnesses, and Satanism.

Note:  I did not ever follow or participate in the latter, but I was astounded at what I discovered among their doctrines and learned from the believers versus modern day society’s take on the religion.  The myths and urban legends that surround the faith are vastly different than the actual spiritual following:  I’d recommend looking it up for an educational take on something most just assume about.

As you can see, I was lost.  I was lost, my soul was lost, and my heart ached for something spiritual that felt right to me.  A faith that would resound within, and let me know I had come home.

Then one day, shortly after the death of my first son, I stumbled onto a book titled, “To Ride a Silver Broomstick” by Silver RavenWolf.  Thus began my journey into the wonderfully spiritual and magickal world of Witchcraft. 

While my faith and beliefs have changed over the years as I have changed – the basic belief in crystal magicks, spiritual meditation, and using energy for positive reinforcement remains. 

I owe my life to Wicca, in more ways than I can ever list or express my gratitude for.  This path has lifted me up when I needed it and saved me from a dark and deep world I would have fallen into on numerous occasions had it not been for my faith in Karma and positive thinking.

As a side note:  I do prefer to practice with other witches and be a part of a Coven – or a Circle- but I move around so much and tend to be a hermit that practicing solitary is what I do. 

Stephanie Lucas: Trying seven others to no level of complete satisfaction and having a solid understanding of science – that all things in the universe are energy – that make embracing my spiritual beliefs simple. Let’s face it, religions are complicated, have a LOT of rules, and even more expectations, judgments, and often promote fear.

3. How do you feel other people represent your religion/faith/belief?

David Litster: I think you are asking about the stereotypes about Mormons.  Most of the stereotypes are pretty messed up, and very inaccurate.  Even amongst ourselves, there is a perception that Mormons are all of one mind about every important thing.  Amongst other Christians, there seems to be a need to portray us as a fringe cult, too different to even be called Christian.

Rich Rumple: Lousy.  Christians seem to be getting a bad reputation for the reasons I’ve already named.  Plus, the rotation of “items of sin” seems to change with the wind.  At one time, I had deacons visit my home and tell me that Rock Music was bad, but that Country Music was good.  I got up and played some various selections for them that contradicted their statements.  Then, I asked them to show me where the Bible listed the various genres of music and the “good/bad” listing of each.  Needless to say they left proclaiming I was the evil one.  This type of twisting of the Bible and belief structure is exactly what has taken so many away from believing in God.

And, let’s not forget about all the ministers that are nothing more than money grubbing asses.  Swag man and his hooker, Bakker and his secretary, Roberts and his 700 feet tall Jesus … and who knows what other stories that supposed men of God have concocted.  Organized religion is for the fool who wishes to part with his money, the ministers that swim in it, and the accountants that count it.  It’s bound to happen though when people put their faith in the wrong place, which again, is in men instead of God.

Tara Weng: Like anything else there are those who I think are brilliant and have a lot to say (Richard Dawkins ahem erm ahem) and there are those who actively seek out religious zealots to debate in a derogatory way.

Starr Bryson: I feel that the general populace isn’t really educated on what Witchcraft, Wicca, or Paganism is.  We’re represented as everything from evil practitioners of black magic to satanic murderers offering up sacrifices.

Even when we’re not being portrayed in a very negative light, the misunderstandings of our faith go a long way to paint us in an incorrect portrait.

For the record, we do not believe in the Christian God, so logically we do not believe in the Christian Satan, and therefore we do not offer up sacrifices to the Prince of Evil.  In fact, we don’t partake in sacrifices at all.  Remember that “an harm ye none” rule?  That sort of keeps us from doing sadistically violent activities or hurting other people.

Stephanie Lucas: It’s kind of hard to find flaws with a bunch of hippies that sprinkle fairy dust, love and light. I love all of my brothers and sisters and think they represent very well. I love my Rainbow Warriors!

4. Are you open to hear what others have to say in regards to their own personal religion/faith/belief, or is it your way or the highway?

David Litster: I follow my faith for a reason, which is that I strongly believe in personal revelation, and this is where that revelation leads me.  I believe that other people can be led in other directions, and I love hearing about their relationship with God, but I dislike others trying to convince me that theirs is the only way.  So kind of both? I don't believe that it's the LDS way or the highway, but I do believe that it's 'each their own way, or the highway'.

Rich Rumple: With my religious background, I’m always open to philosophies.  Also, I lived in the Mid-East for years and was very open to the teachings of the Koran.  It made a lot of sense in some areas, but it simply wasn’t what I believed.  Huffpost is filled with those that don’t believe in anything but attacking those that do.  For a Christian to post there is like becoming a gladiator in the Coliseum of Rome.  Each has their own right to believe, or not believe as they choose.  It’s not for man to say if what they’re doing is right or wrong, but God’s judgment to be the final voice in the matter. 

Tara Weng: I'm open but don't try and proselytize...two of my biggest influences (my grandparents) were devout Catholics but they did not ever try to shove it down my throat, nor were they mad when I didn't baptize my son.

Starr Bryson: Oh!  Absolutely.  I love to hear about other religions and faiths.  I am actually interested in hearing about all of the different faiths in the world; their histories, their rituals, their Holidays.  It’s an interesting topic.

As long as it’s not being pushed upon me, or I’m being told that I’m wrong and this is the right way – I’ll listen to anyone’s views.

Stephanie Lucas: I love, honor, and cherish all humans’ right to believe whatever they want. Who am I to judge anyone? After all, I ride cotton candy dragons that chase unicorns for fun!

5. What misconception(s) about your religion/faith/belief drives you the most nuts?

David Litster: Probably that we are all the same, and that we hate people that are of other Christian faiths or who are different than us.  This isn't to say that there aren't Mormons like that, but there is a huge variety in attitudes, and it is dogmatically incorrect to accept what anyone says based on their credentials or position in the church.  Rather, it is incumbent on each person to pray and study for themselves, and we are only responsible for how well we follow Christ, according to our individual ability to understand. 

Rich Rumple: The “light at the end of the tunnel” statement makers.  I’ve been clinically dead twice, and have never experienced light or darkness.  I passed out and woke up … nothing in between.  I have a hard time believing that there’s a light awaiting us.  I believe that the final “pass out” will bring about a new awakening of some sort, in another place with increased perceptions.  I’m of the age where I need to believe this, regardless of the idiocy surrounding it.  But, to proclaim, “I saw a light guiding me…” is only something that I believe the individual either made up or dreamt.

Tara Weng: I'm so tired of people saying "well don't you want to believe in something..." sure I would love to believe that Santa Claus comes down my chimney once a year, but it doesn't make it so...also I'm all set with hearing "you're going to hell or you're a bad parent" I don't believe in a hell and my kids are very well educated.

Starr Bryson: I have to say the Satanic Rituals theory pisses me off the most.  I mean, c’mon, we’re all about love and light, and tree hugging, and positive energy . . . really?

Also get over the images of crones flying on broomsticks.  Witches look just like you and, well, me. 

Stephanie Lucas: The people that run in my metaphysical circles pretty much accept that most people think we are nuts…and we love that. As creators of our own reality, we don’t really care what anyone thinks of our beliefs.

6. For the most part the majority of religions/faiths/beliefs aren’t necessarily evil in themselves, but rather it’s the people who claim to follow these religions/faiths/beliefs who are the ones who tarnish its name, true or false?

David Litster: True.  Very, very true.  Any organization is made up of individuals, and these individuals are never truly monolithic.  While some people are reactionaries or base their decisions on fear or hate, I have great trouble believing that even a majority of people in most groups are like that.

That being said, there are a very few groups where hating people seems to be a core value (WBC, I'm calling you out).  This seems to me to be the very antithesis of what God wants from us.

Rich Rumple: True!  Religions could be looked at as “crowd control” for the masses.  I’ve heard the belief that the rich created religions to keep the poor in line, promising them riches upon death, but only if they behaved during life.  This kept them from storming the castle and robbing the king’s vault at one time. 

Extremists are bad, regardless of their base beliefs.  Why?  Because they have no tolerance for anyone else.  They have to have things their own way as they can’t believe that they’re not as perfect as they know they are.  The world needs to remember that tolerance is a word, and an ability that human beings have that other species don’t.  Practicing it might just help everyone get along a whole lot better.

Tara Weng: Mostly true although I do think some religions teach (by way of a fanatic preaching or through text) by way of preying on others' insecurities and/or education.

Starr Bryson: True.  I forget the exact statistic here, but something like 90% (I made that up) of the world’s wars, history of violence, and genocides happened in the name of one Religion or another.

At the very basic core of most religions, there’s this faith in something bigger than yourself, a creed to treat others with kindness, and a notion to spread around love.  That’s not evil. 

Stephanie Lucas: The one time I asked my father why he didn’t ever go to church he replied, “Well, girl – If I wanted to be in a room filled with hypocrites, I’d go to church. So, in his words of wisdom I will say TRUE to a greater extent than false…

7. How do you feel people of a particular religion/faith/belief treat you as an individual?

David Litster: I don't.  I have not encountered any group that treats me consistently, as a group.  There are individuals in some groups that can be quite rude, but I don't feel that the whole group does.

Rich Rumple: That’s kind of funny.  Most believers tolerate other denominations even though they disagree on various points.  However, even though a non-believer has the right to non-believe, as I state I’m a believer they begin to sharpen their claws and spring into attack mode.

This inability to tolerate is what gets to me.  If non-believers wish to pursue that avenue, it’s fine with me, but I also have a right to pursue my path without harassment.   I’m not pushing my beliefs on others, so please don’t try to prove yours to me.  It’s really that simple.

I have no problems with Jewish celebrating as they do, Muslims prayer habits and such, or really, any other quirks of individual religions.  I respect them for their faith and adherence to practicing it.  If a person doesn’t believe, I can also live with that without discussions.

However, put up a nativity scene in public, wish a person “Merry Christmas”, or post the word “God” in any public building and the non-believers become incensed and pursue legal actions.  Again, they want everyone to believe as they do and cannot tolerate it when they don’t.  Many are like a bunch of spoiled brats when it comes to having their own way.

What’s so hypocritical is that many still celebrate gift giving on Christmas, take the Christmas holidays off work, and go crazy on Black Friday.  Yet, they cannot see the hypocrisy for the perfection they believe they exude.    Perhaps if they would practice tolerance instead of selfishness, they might attract more converts. 

Tara Weng: I get shit all the time for different reasons once I say I'm an atheist.

Starr Bryson: A lot of (uneducated) Christians treat me like this horrid, evil creature from a Hans Christian Anderson fairytale, or worse, The Brothers Grimm.  They see me as “evil” and “doing the devil’s work” and as someone they need to save. 

Stephanie Lucas: Well…it depends. Certainly male Muslims in Dubai aren’t going to give you much props, nor are certain Christians if you don’t prescribe to their beliefs…Trust me, try to hook up with a person who’s extremely programmed or serious about their faith and not be willing to convert yourself to follow their beliefs – and watch that become a deal breaker. On the other hand…I find myself warmly welcomed by some of the most unexpected religious communities…they simply appreciate the genuine interest shown in becoming educated about their oft-misunderstood practices.

8. What is your outlook on Christianity as a whole, and why?

David Litster: Most Christians, and most people for that matter, don't question their own faith enough.  They spend an awful lot of energy questioning other people's faith, which isn't any of their business, when they should strive to question their own beliefs more.  Having attended a number of different denominations over the years, I have yet to encounter one that doesn't have, as an official doctrine, that they are really the only correct type of Christianity, or of Islam, or Buddhism, or whatever.  Sometimes this is very subtle, and really that bothers me more than when it is open, but I honestly believe that God is much more interested in how we treat each other than in any particular words we say.  Thus, it bothers me whenever I hear anyone preach that this dogma or that one of someone else's faith will damn them to eternal punishment.

Rich Rumple: Anything man touches he ruins.  Greed has ruled in every religion throughout history.  And, greed rules non-believers as much as the believers.

Man’s greed has created wars, executions, and suffering in the name of religion.  It seems as though it’s a way for him to validate his actions and not have to worry about the masses getting upset.  So, Christianity suffers, as will every religion, as long as man is the focal point instead of God and continues to twist the teachings.  ISIS is the latest to prove that Christianity is not alone in that! 

The sad thing is that Christianity provides the basics for life that many are missing today.  It does preach tolerance, understanding, the difference between right and wrong, and the lost practice of respect.  The last 60 years have seen a decrease in believers in the United States and everywhere else.  Take a look at today’s society and you can see where these missing teachings are so sorely needed.  Still, we ignore them … and we wonder why things are as bad as they are.  Ignorance breeds ignorance and society today is proof of that.

Tara Weng: Honestly I find it a bit odd in the sense that people will pray to a God to cure them of cancer or have their football team win a game. Also I find it more than a little disturbing when people use their God as an excuse to hate or kill. It's not my bag.

Starr Bryson: I think, at its base, the Christian religion means well.  Historically (and factually) speaking, Christianity was born out of Pagan beliefs. You can look this up, I’m not saying it to piss anyone off or start a religious war. 

They mean well.  But the fire and the brimstone aspect of the faith tends to get out of control.  Think The Crusades or The Salem Witch Trials.  Even the missionaries, though they mean well, are basically traveling to countries that have had their own belief systems and faiths that served them well for centuries and pushing the Christian God and faith on the native people.  “Saving them” from what?  Their ways worked just fine long before Christianity was invented, and will continue to serve them long after the missionaries leave their countries. 

I get that Christians think they’re helping and it’s their mission to spread The Word of God – but I feel that it’s a very pushy, self-centered, and egotistical outlook. To think that one’s way of thinking is the only way is a very narrow minded view of the world.

Stephanie Lucas: No response.

9. If you could leave people with one final thought in regard to your own personal religion/faith/belief or why it is you choose not to follow a particular religion/faith/belief, what would it be?

David Litster: Wow. Tough question.  I would want everyone to understand why I am a Christian, which really I suppose has two intertwined reasons.  First, I believe that we all repeatedly fail, and that there are consequences for that failure that are beyond any of our abilities to fix.  We need a person with an infinite ability to pay the price and suffer our consequences for us.  The intertwining reason is that I absolutely believe that Christ has paid that price for me, as an individual, and that I owe Him more than I could ever repay for that gift.  The least I can do is to give Him all the loyalty I am able, and do my best to be the person He wants me to be.  Because He made it possible for me to try again, and not suffer for my past mistakes, I owe it to Him to move past those mistakes, and try again every day to not make more of them.

Rich Rumple: I’ve been a non-believer, a believer, a follower of men, and a completely confused individual.  Yet, when I sit down and wonder “what next”, a prayer never hurts.  I don’t go to church as I’m sickened by how it has become a showplace of the latest fashions and a hiding place for thieves dressed as the elite of society.  And, man has proven himself unable to preach the words of the Bible without twisting them for his own beliefs and ideal structure. 

Yet, I believe that man had to start somewhere.  A speck of dust … a spark from another planet … a rotation of the Planet of the Apes?   Who knows?  Scientists are constantly proving themselves wrong, and are men … with the greatest egos of all the species. 

At my age, I’m going to believe.  My time on this planet is getting shorter every second.  I don’t have time for any more flip-flopping.  If I’m right then I am hopefully preparing myself for a better life.  If I’m wrong, I’m no worse off.  In fact, by showing others respect, understanding multiple points of view, knowing the difference between right and wrong, and demonstrating tolerance, I’m doing my best to set an example that others can follow, if they wish.  It’s not a life of extremism, but one of less stress and much inner peace.  The lives of others are not mine to judge.  However, watching mankind as a “progressive society” is always good for a good laugh.   And that never hurt anyone.

Tara Weng: I want to do good in the world because I believe in empathy and compassion not because I'm trying to get somewhere good beyond this life. I don't rag on people for their choices and I expect the same respect in kind. Practice what your preach--if you believe in salvation--be someone's savior right here and now.

Starr Bryson: I’m all about living and let live; as long as you’re not hurting anyone else.  I promise, I’m not in a dark forest cackling over a cauldron wishing evil on you and your family.

Chances are, I’m meditating in the sunlight over crystals, sending out waves of positive energy, love, and light to those who need it most in their lives.

And contrary to popular belief, we cannot perform a spell on, or for, anyone without their express permission.  Not even a healing spell.  But we do send out positive energy to those who need it.  It’s similar to prayer, if you need a visual aid.

We believe in everyone else believing in whatever it is they need to get by in life, to get through the hard times, the dark moments, and come out the other side in one piece.   Whatever your faith is, practice in love and light.

Blessed be.

Stephanie Lucas: Go with your instincts and don’t allow pre-conceived familial obligations concerning religion override what makes you feel most at peace. Far too many wars begin with staunch religious beliefs, maybe it’s time to give peace a chance and free yourself.

I am hoping to show all those haters out there, that there are many people who love and respect others and their religions/faiths/beliefs, even if they don't share that said religion/faith/belief as their own.

Just to give you an idea of how religion, or the lack thereof, is viewed from the prospective of outsiders looking in, I just wanted to let you know what the two biggest statements were that I heard the most while trying to put this piece together.

 The first, "You know I'm…"

As if to warn me, like I would be such a closed-minded person that by finding out that someone within my inner circle had a different religion/faith/belief than mine would cause me to separate myself from them and/or think differently about them.

The second, "Don't try to change me" 

As if my plan, sadly solely based on the fact that I consider myself a Christian, was to convert others to my faith of choice, like I had some sort of ulterior motive or some kind of evil master plan to take over the world.

Don’t misunderstand me, I know these thoughts are warranted, and I’m not at all surprised by them, especially in our world today, but I just find it very unfortunate and sad to say the least.

The morale of this blog piece, don’t fear, condemn and/or pass judgment on what you don’t know, and don’t assume that just because some of us share the same faith that we must all be cut from the same cloth.

MJM

“The Antichrist”

As it is written in 1 John 4:1 “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world” we as followers of God need to be diligent in making sure that the people/organizations who are claiming to be of God are just that, and not a false prophets.

We need to make sure they are leading us down the right path and not one that only leads to meet their own needs and personal desires.

God calls us his sheep, but that doesn't mean that he wants us to mindlessly follow anyone who claims to be doing his work, he wants us to proceed with caution and question them to make sure their motives are clean and pure. 

   

Here are a couple of examples of people/organizations that speak with a forked tongue and hope to lead you astray, to deceive you and to ultimately make you one of their followers.

First we have the Westboro Baptist Church.

They keep their hatred and twisted views behind the guise of a church; they pretend to be something they’re not all with the hopes of leading people off the mark.

They claim to have your best interests in mind; they only do what they do to make the world a better place and to guarantee you a spot in heaven.

What they don’t tell you is that your actions are not of God, but rather against God, and in the end they will leave you standing in front of Him to answer for your behavior, and He won’t accept “because I didn't know any better” as an excuse.

They preach hate and separation, and they do so with evil intentions and without any concern for your soul. 

Next we have the Reverend (and I use that term loosely) Al Sharpton.

He spends his time promoting anger, getting people riled up and fighting unnecessary and unjust wars, all so that he can keep deposits from his god coming in.

This man doesn't care about the issues we face, he doesn't care about the wellbeing of the world we all share, he only cares about the color of one’s skin and if there is the possibility of a profit.

He doesn't see us as equals, and definitely not as brothers and sisters, only as a paycheck and a way to get more exposure for himself and his own personal agenda.

Where is he when there are no TV cameras, when there is no money to be made, when the skin of the victim(s) is anything but black?

The antichrist comes in many different shapes and forms, many different occupations and backgrounds, and is not always as transparent as they two I've listed above.

You will encounter many wolves in sheep’s clothing on your journey in this life of ours, so make sure to keep your eyes open.

When it comes to your soul, remember the words of the poet Dylan Thomas and do not go gentle into that good night, and rage against the dying of the light.

You don’t believe any of this, you think I am completely out of my mind?

Well I challenge you to find out for yourself, go to the source and question them, I encourage you to make sure I am not misleading you.

MJM

“Proverbs”

Here are some words of wisdom that I felt lead to share with those of a faith, and those without one, because information is never a bad thing regardless of where you stand on the matter.

“A few bad apples spoil the bunch”

Unfortunately there are people who claim to be a follower of one religion or another, who due to their actions and self-absorbed motives, end up ultimately tarnishing its name and leave outsiders looking in with total disdain and disgust.

We must do our best to be able to separate ourselves from these ”bad apples” and see the faith for what it truly is.

We should decide which works best for us and our personal needs and not concern ourselves with what others are doing.

“Freedom of choice”

The thing about religion is that for the most part it is not a choice; it is something that we are forced into at a young age, it is ingrained into our brains and becomes a part of who we are all thanks to our parents/guardians.

Whether or not that changes, all depends on the individual and their mindset when they reach the age of reason.

Now this is not a knock at the parents because obviously most of them do it out of love for their children, not some kind of pride and/or selfish motives.

We as individuals must understand this and when we are ready we must decide which direction to proceed, even if that means leaving all faiths behind.

 “Do we have to pray just to make it today?”

Whether prayer should or shouldn't be allowed in school is a hot button topic that is constantly being brought to the forefront of our society due to parent’s personal beliefs, or lack thereof, and unfortunate events that take place around in the world around us.

Honestly there is no simple way to answer this, because regardless of the answer one side or the other is going to feel as if they were wronged.

We should just allow the children ten minutes or so of quiet time to do with as they feel lead to, if that means praying then have at it, and if not then they can utilize that time as they feel fit.

If as a parent this is something you feel strongly about, then enroll your child in a school that caters to the particular religion you follow.

“Creationism vs. Evolution”

This is another hot button topic that can go either way, and as I said above in regard to prayer being allowed in school or not, there is no clear cut answer to this question that would leave everyone involved happy.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with believing that a divine entity created the world, especially if that helps your journey through it more tolerable, but you must also allow for scientific reasoning that shows that evolution is possible, and if fact has happened.

Believe it or not, it is entirely possible to believe both philosophies, and in some cases it even makes things a little easier to understand.

“Take me to church”

Is it completely necessary to attend church every chance one gets to be consider a true believer, a dedicated servant?

Some would have you believe it is, that if you decide not to attend that you are less of a follower, that you are not doing your Godly duty.

However, the reality of it all is that it is not a requirement to be considered a faithful follower, but rather a place to go to be around other like-minded individuals, kind of like belonging to a club.

Church is all around us, God is everywhere and not just confined to the walls of a church and/or any other religious structure.

“Holy War”

There is no such thing, war can’t be holy.

People use this term to justify their cause for going to war, for causing destruction and chaos throughout the world all in the name of their God.

God is love, forgiveness and acceptance, not violence, vengeance and hate.

Unfortunately it’s the corrupt individuals who are falsely waiving a religion’s banner that incorporate war into it to meet their own personal needs and agendas.  

I know that there are times where people have no other choice but to defend their stance, to rise up against the adversaries all with hopes of maintaining and/or achieving spiritual freedom, but for the most part this is not the case most of the time.

“Where do you go when you die?”

Whether or not someone goes to heaven (or spiritual equivalent depending of their faith) when they die is not a matter for the masses to decide, but rather a matter between them and their maker alone.

We have no right or authority to tell others where they will go when they crossover to the other side, regardless of how much we feel we do.

God knows our heart, He is aware of the steps we had to take and the adversities we faced on our journey, and according to some even orchestrates our every move along the way.

Since He started us on our way, and has been with us the whole time guiding us, I would say it’s only fitting that where the story ends is up to Him.

“Signs, signs, everywhere there's signs”

Too many of these so-called religious people holding up signs to get their points across.

Now I know some of you may wonder why this is a bad thing, and honestly if it’s done correctly it’s not, but when it’s done foolishly it ends up only hurting the faith/message more so than do it any good.

People need to remember to keep their own personal beliefs out of it, and when hate supersedes love the message is not worth broadcasting and better just kept to one’s self.  

(The End)

So there you have it my friends. I hope you enjoyed what I had to share, and please feel free to let me know your thoughts.

MJM

“Coexist”

Remember when we were kids and one of our playmates would get into trouble and their parents would scold them as a result of it right in front of us?

We of course would intervene and add or two cents like we were something special, only to be followed by the authority figure telling us to mind our own business and to let them handle it.

Well that is also sound advice when it comes to sticking our noses into another’s choice of religion, or lack thereof.

We may not believe in what they believe in, we may even think it’s a complete lie, but that is not for us to decide and not for us to attack, and to think otherwise is utterly repulsive and completely disgraceful to say the least.

It’s not our place to tell others what to do or not to do, no matter how much we feel it is.

I know that may be a shock to your ego but it’s true.

We need to learn to live and let live, to coexist, and not try to force our beliefs onto others, especially when they don’t ask for our help and/or input.

If anything this kind of behavior does nothing more than to turn people off from the particular faith you claim to endorse, needless to say it does more harm than good.

We should be tolerant of people’s choices, allow them the same respect and understanding that we would want in return.

Besides, if we are not perfect, we sin every day and are constantly evolving in our own faith, how can we honestly think that we are in any position to teach and/or guide other individuals in what we believe is the so-called right way to live?

People spend so much time trying to convert others while all the time avoiding the problem areas in their own lives, overlooking their own downfalls at the expense of another’s assumable faults.

We shouldn’t tell our neighbors how to manage their lawn when their grass is lush and green, while we are standing in weeds and dirt, it just doesn’t make sense.

Once we all start living our own lives and not worrying about what others are doing we will truly find peace within this world of ours.

Most of the animosity that we endure as people comes from our differences as individuals, we clash when it comes to our beliefs and feel the only thing to do is to destroy the alternative.

Religion is about loving your fellow man, treating them as you would want to be treated, however with all the smoke, gun fire and condemnation you would never know it.

Focus on yourself, make your life the best it could possibly be and freely follow whatever faith you feel lead to follow, but also remember to give others that same privilege.

Final thought, it’s totally understandable that we firmly accept our faith (or lack thereof), believe it to be gospel, because if we didn’t it would be foolish on our behalf, but unfortunately that doesn’t make it the ultimate truth, whether we like it or not.

Do what you need to do to survive this world, but don’t expect others to follow you as if you’re the shepherd and they are you’re lost sheep, and they don’t deserve to be lead to slaughter because they tend to their own flock either.

Don’t rain on someone else’s parade, allow them to march to beat of their own drum, and if this philosophy is reciprocated we will all be in a better place because of it.

MJM

"Tis the Season of Grieving"

With the holiday season here upon us, amongst all the celebrating and warm wishes, we must remember that not everyone is filled with holiday cheer and are having a holly jolly good time. By this I don’t mean that we have a Scrooge on our hands, who instead of wishing everyone a happy holiday is going around shouting bah humbug while wearing an unpleasant scowl across their face but rather people who are hurting inside and can’t bring themselves to open up about it out of fear of ridicule and/or judgment by their peers.

This world makes people feel bad about expressing their feelings, that something is wrong with them if they are not of the same mindset as the masses and that unfortunately is the reason why most avoid being transparent. Because of this they keep their true identify hidden and I don’t mean one of superpowers and superior crime fighting abilities but more so one of overwhelming sorrow and soul shattering pain, their own personal mental war.

No matter who is around them and/or what gift they unwrap the anguish that burns inside of them will not simmer, if anything it burns hotter and more out of control during this time of year. For most it is hard to believe that during times of such happiness that someone could be suffering so, but this is reality and a truly dangerous one at that. They are a ticking time bomb waiting to go off and without someone to cut the correct wire they will someday explode, leaving nothing more than a memory and a trail of broken hearts and tortured souls with so many unanswered questions and regrets.

So act now, show the people in your life how much they mean to you while they are still here to appreciate it; don’t wait until they are six feet under and you are left talking to a tombstone. Be aware of the body language, pay attention to the subtle clues and most importantly don't be afraid to get involved and if necessary help them find professional help. Sometimes a shoulder to lean on and an open ear could do wonders for someone’s mental state, it could be the best gift they received all year and in some cases even a lifesaving one.

Also these individuals can be anyone from anonymous stranger, someone you may see on a regular basis but not give much thought to, or even a friend or family member, you just never know. This problem is not exclusive to one group or another, so don’t believe that this couldn’t happen to you or your friends/family because doing so would be completely foolish and possibly have devastating consequences.

While you're thinking of what you want for Christmas there are others who are fighting with thoughts of suicide. Look after each other this holiday season and don't risk getting the gift you always wanted but losing the person you forever loved. This holiday season encourage your loved ones to have anything but a "silent night", encourage them to share their feelings and to let you know if there are any problems they are experiencing emotionally, mentally and/or physically. Don't just go through the motions, truly love.

Our brothers and sisters are hurting and as we worry about what gifts to buy each other and who’s bringing what to the family dinner they are searching for a reason to continue on. We don't need to be visited by three spirits to know something has to change, be like the Grinch and let your heart grow three sizes this holiday season, trust me the world will be a better place because of it. 

MJM

“Why?”

When were younger we questioned everything, even the simplest things, but then we get older and we stop, we just accept everything as truth, which is very unfortunate to say the least.

We must not lose that child-like mind, we must continue to question the information that is given to us, and not just allow others to spoon feed it to us with our eyes tightly closed, which in turn leaves our minds vulnerable to attacks and misguidance.

This is ever so important when you are dealing with people of faith, and not because they are all bad and/or looking to cause problems in your life, but because you don’t want to be fooled by false prophets and led astray.

We are not to take the whole ”sheep” metaphor literally, God wants us to learn and evolve in our faith, he doesn’t want us to be mindless sheep who just take everything that is told to them as gospel and create their lives around it.

He wouldn’t have blessed us with a brain if he didn’t want us to use it, to think for ourselves, to research and investigate what is being told to us and not just accept it as fact.

I know it’s scary to question authority, especially if it comes in the form of your pastor with a whole congregation backing them up, but for your spiritual health and well-being it is something that totally needs to be done, it is a necessity.

Don’t be afraid to ask why, to question what is being told to you, because no matter who is preaching it or what book it’s written in nothing is completely foolproof, especially when man is involved.

Your goal should not to be a spiritual zombie, someone who walks around without a thought in their head and a mentality only to blindly feed on the flesh that everyone else is eating.

You should strive to be much more, an individual who thinks for themselves and truly understands what they are eating and more importantly, why they are eating it.

Break free from the flock, educate yourself properly so that you can better understand why things are the way they are and what it means to truly be a man/woman of faith.

There’s nothing wrong with being a follower of one religion or another, or not following any at all, just make sure that you are doing so with open eyes and because of a decision that was made with an educated mindset and not because someone else told you to.

I am not trying to get you to debunk your faith, to make you doubt everything you’ve been taught and to make you cynical, but rather to help you become stronger spiritually and to see things how they truly are and not just as you were told to view them.

Be who you are, live your life as you feel fit, just make sure you’re aware of why it is you’re taking the steps you’re taking, because if you walk blindly through life you run the risk you seriously hurting yourself and/or others around you.

Know why you’re doing it, don’t be afraid to speak up and go against the grain, because even if man shuns you, God never will.

MJM

“In Your Face”

A person’s faith, or lack thereof, is a personal choice and should be treated as such.

Religion is a tool for our benefit, to help us live a better life and for spiritual enlightenment and mental growth.

To give us strength, purpose and inner peace in this overly cruel and uncompassionate world of ours, a crutch if you will, to aid us and to assist our weary legs on the difficult journey that we have ahead of us.

It is not meant to be a gavel and a shovel, we are not to judge and condemn others just because they believe differently than we do, that is not what it’s all about and to believe otherwise is completely foolish.

Many people treat religion as a deed restricted community, they believe their yard is where it should be, bright green and well maintained on the surface but underneath the roots are dying and brittle, but they still feel it necessary to go around and point out all the yards that are less than perfect.

When it comes to religion, this is one time where that the old adage “if you didn't bring enough for everyone you shouldn't have brought any at all” doesn’t hold true, feel free to be as stingy as you like and to keep it all for yourself, trust me I don’t think anyone will mind.

It is vitally important to remember that our faith should not be used as a weapon; a means of attacking others who do not share our beliefs with the hopes of browbeating them into submission and making them more like us.

Avoid the spiritual beat downs, the faith brutalities, at all costs because they do no one any good and ultimately do more harm for our cause then they do anything positive.

An outreached hand does more good than a clenched up fist, live and let live, love and show compassion towards others and their way of life and you’d be pleasantly surprised by the outcome.

Actions speak louder than words; you can sometimes say more with your mouth closed than you can with it open.

When you go around spreading hate like fertilizer (which is exactly what it is) and judging others as if your name was Judy, then that's what you'll get back.

There’s no problem with discussing your faith with others if and when the topic presents itself, but don’t go around trying to force feed it to them, because the end result will not be a pretty one.

When you’re trying to bring people to your cause or to your vision you must lead by example, not by force, you catch more flies with honey than you do with a flyswatter, so think before you act.

MJM