Chapter on isms
Read Author Notes first, please.28 total reviews
Comment from juliaSjames
John
This is entirely too long, not only as a posting, but also as a chapter if/when you publish. I believe that I once mentioned to you that in work as complex and "meaty" as yours, it would be helpful to add sub titles both as a guide to the reader, and to aid you in construction and flow of your thoughts.
Do you think it helps to include sweeping statements such as "Most Christians ate stuck in a childish fantasy world."? Is not this the judgmental voice of Ego? I haven't commented on your views on other religions because I am not well enough acquainted with their tenets.
Nevertheless, based on the accumulation of data and your attempt to create an integral and integrated essay from such diverse sources, I still rate this as excellent.
reply by the author on 30-May-2011
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John
This is entirely too long, not only as a posting, but also as a chapter if/when you publish. I believe that I once mentioned to you that in work as complex and "meaty" as yours, it would be helpful to add sub titles both as a guide to the reader, and to aid you in construction and flow of your thoughts.
Do you think it helps to include sweeping statements such as "Most Christians ate stuck in a childish fantasy world."? Is not this the judgmental voice of Ego? I haven't commented on your views on other religions because I am not well enough acquainted with their tenets.
Nevertheless, based on the accumulation of data and your attempt to create an integral and integrated essay from such diverse sources, I still rate this as excellent.
Comment Written 29-May-2011
reply by the author on 30-May-2011
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This is the toughest chapter without doubt. Too many emotions get in the way of clear thinking sometimes. I am getting great help in cleaning it up. Thank...John
Comment from WilliamDeen
I have often felt saddened by the limitations one places on themselves by belonging to a particular religion or denomination. Telling and teaching yourself, this is the only way to spiritual happiness. How mind boggling to think they refuse to accept, even denounce, another way of thinking.
Even more concerning to me, is the hypocrisy of those who claim to believe or claim to be christians. Especially when their actions, life, and in particular, political affiliations go against that which they preach.
How can one claim to be pro-life and at the same time be for war?
How can someone ask, and live a life based on, What Would Jesus Do?, then politically be against social justice?
I find these positions taken to be infuriating in the least.
At any rate, I have added my 2 cents worth.
A very well written piece with exceptional points to ponder and a push towards true enlightenment and universal understanding. Thought provoking and interesting.
Thanks for sharing.
billy
reply by the author on 29-May-2011
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I have often felt saddened by the limitations one places on themselves by belonging to a particular religion or denomination. Telling and teaching yourself, this is the only way to spiritual happiness. How mind boggling to think they refuse to accept, even denounce, another way of thinking.
Even more concerning to me, is the hypocrisy of those who claim to believe or claim to be christians. Especially when their actions, life, and in particular, political affiliations go against that which they preach.
How can one claim to be pro-life and at the same time be for war?
How can someone ask, and live a life based on, What Would Jesus Do?, then politically be against social justice?
I find these positions taken to be infuriating in the least.
At any rate, I have added my 2 cents worth.
A very well written piece with exceptional points to ponder and a push towards true enlightenment and universal understanding. Thought provoking and interesting.
Thanks for sharing.
billy
Comment Written 29-May-2011
reply by the author on 29-May-2011
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It is quite difficult for me to winnow through all the studies and find simple enough words to convey what I know to be true. If it is true for me, it must be true for all. Tough nut to crack. Thanks...John
Comment from amahra
If you went to another planet and saw a rock lying about, this wouldn't necessarily mean anything. But if you'd discovered a mechanical toy or some other complex gadget placed strategically, you would assume there was or had been some intelligent life form, because this couldn't have happened on its own. At least, no intelligent person would assume that.
How anyone can look at the complexity of the human brain, let alone the entire body, and still believe mankind just happened out of the blue with no intelligent assistant, is either asleep at the wheel of reasoning or a Bona fide idiot. Belief in God is the first sign of wisdom. God said, "I will hide my truth from the wise (here, meaning those who think they've arrived at the pinnacle of knowledge) and reveal it only unto Babes (meaning those who are sincerely searching for truth)." There is "NO" TRUTH without God and the Person of His Son, Jesus. It's sad those who think as you do "will" realize that TRUTH after you die. May God bless you with Wisdom someday my friend.
reply by the author on 29-May-2011
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If you went to another planet and saw a rock lying about, this wouldn't necessarily mean anything. But if you'd discovered a mechanical toy or some other complex gadget placed strategically, you would assume there was or had been some intelligent life form, because this couldn't have happened on its own. At least, no intelligent person would assume that.
How anyone can look at the complexity of the human brain, let alone the entire body, and still believe mankind just happened out of the blue with no intelligent assistant, is either asleep at the wheel of reasoning or a Bona fide idiot. Belief in God is the first sign of wisdom. God said, "I will hide my truth from the wise (here, meaning those who think they've arrived at the pinnacle of knowledge) and reveal it only unto Babes (meaning those who are sincerely searching for truth)." There is "NO" TRUTH without God and the Person of His Son, Jesus. It's sad those who think as you do "will" realize that TRUTH after you die. May God bless you with Wisdom someday my friend.
Comment Written 29-May-2011
reply by the author on 29-May-2011
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It is quite difficult for me to winnow through all the studies and find simple enough words to convey what I know to be true. If it is true for me, it must be true for all. Tough nut to crack. Thanks...John
Comment from missyvamp
"What all belief systems , not only religions, do is define the size of our prison." I totally agree. I myself abandoned organized religion years ago, but through the miracles of our existence, scientifically and mathematically explained, led to me to believe (yes, BELIEVE) that there is some sort of Creator. I simply know not what that thing is. Are we an alien child's science project? A computer program along the lines of "the Matrix"? (would we not, to an ant or other tiny living thing, seem like an alien and/or god to them?) I do not know. I do still pray, in hopes of being heard and just in case "someone" is listening, but I do not "believe" in it.
I still, however, have an open mind--I am open to LOGICAL (not religious) arguments about our existence and our world.
Atheism is to me yet another religion. It holds tightly to a rigid belief system disguised as non-belief and 'believers' are just as fervent and desirous of spreading THEIR word as are the very believers they so hold in disdain, disregard, and disbelief.
But isn't disbelief a belief in and of itself, making even you a 'believer' of sorts? You seemed to implicate that even known facts like two plus two equals four is a belief, yet you follow science and (seemingly) the teachings and/or rules of a faith that you call a 'non-religion.' Again, are you not a believer then?
A great piece. Great vocabulary, intelligent, and well-researched.
There were mistakes in here (you did say it was unedited), and (probably due to the fact that you are combining different works) it is repetitive in places. Also, in my opinion, you should choose a different title...there are no 'isms' discussed here (such as sexism and racism) other than the religious variety. I'd call it "religious isms" or something like that...something that lets the reader know more plainly what they will be reading about. You may choose to leave out the 'isms' altogether. Just a thought.
reply by the author on 29-May-2011
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"What all belief systems , not only religions, do is define the size of our prison." I totally agree. I myself abandoned organized religion years ago, but through the miracles of our existence, scientifically and mathematically explained, led to me to believe (yes, BELIEVE) that there is some sort of Creator. I simply know not what that thing is. Are we an alien child's science project? A computer program along the lines of "the Matrix"? (would we not, to an ant or other tiny living thing, seem like an alien and/or god to them?) I do not know. I do still pray, in hopes of being heard and just in case "someone" is listening, but I do not "believe" in it.
I still, however, have an open mind--I am open to LOGICAL (not religious) arguments about our existence and our world.
Atheism is to me yet another religion. It holds tightly to a rigid belief system disguised as non-belief and 'believers' are just as fervent and desirous of spreading THEIR word as are the very believers they so hold in disdain, disregard, and disbelief.
But isn't disbelief a belief in and of itself, making even you a 'believer' of sorts? You seemed to implicate that even known facts like two plus two equals four is a belief, yet you follow science and (seemingly) the teachings and/or rules of a faith that you call a 'non-religion.' Again, are you not a believer then?
A great piece. Great vocabulary, intelligent, and well-researched.
There were mistakes in here (you did say it was unedited), and (probably due to the fact that you are combining different works) it is repetitive in places. Also, in my opinion, you should choose a different title...there are no 'isms' discussed here (such as sexism and racism) other than the religious variety. I'd call it "religious isms" or something like that...something that lets the reader know more plainly what they will be reading about. You may choose to leave out the 'isms' altogether. Just a thought.
Comment Written 29-May-2011
reply by the author on 29-May-2011
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It is quite difficult for me to winnow through all the studies and find simple enough words to convey what I know to be true. If it is true for me, it must be true for all. Tough nut to crack. Thanks...John
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um...I appreciate your reply but you didn't answer my question, far as I can tell...are you saying I need to figure it out for myself? That would leave it open to interpretation and may not adhere to your intended philosophy...plus my brain doesn't work as well as it used to...
...Or are you saying that YOU need to give it more thought??
Comment from glpar
I've read through this twice and know you have put much thought into it. I'm afraid I find it confusing with quotes from so many sources and by the time I get to the end I'm afraid I'm just as I said, confused. As for following John Lennon's thoughts.......good luck with that. As for the writing. I see no nits with that. Maybe it's just a wee bit deep for me. Good luck with your book.
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reply by the author on 29-May-2011
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I've read through this twice and know you have put much thought into it. I'm afraid I find it confusing with quotes from so many sources and by the time I get to the end I'm afraid I'm just as I said, confused. As for following John Lennon's thoughts.......good luck with that. As for the writing. I see no nits with that. Maybe it's just a wee bit deep for me. Good luck with your book.
This rating does not count towards story rating or author rank.
The highest and the lowest rating are not included in calculations.
Comment Written 29-May-2011
reply by the author on 29-May-2011
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Thanks...John
Comment from mumsyone
I don't know what to say, except for the fact that I didn't know much about John Lennon or his "beliefs" until I read this. Now I'm totally convinced that I don't want to know any more about him or his beliefs.
I have to be honest and say I didn't read all the way to the end, as this is very long and, frankly, I lost interest somewhere along the way. Nevertheless, I am rating it on your excellent writing, not in any way on the content.
reply by the author on 29-May-2011
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I don't know what to say, except for the fact that I didn't know much about John Lennon or his "beliefs" until I read this. Now I'm totally convinced that I don't want to know any more about him or his beliefs.
I have to be honest and say I didn't read all the way to the end, as this is very long and, frankly, I lost interest somewhere along the way. Nevertheless, I am rating it on your excellent writing, not in any way on the content.
Comment Written 29-May-2011
reply by the author on 29-May-2011
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Thanks...John
Comment from Deejharrington
Wow! I'm speechless to explain how and why so many of what you've written about has smacked me in the head. I kept nodding and saying "yes" out loud. There is so much that needs contemplation and further study. The one statement that will stay with me was, "The only thing that dies if your past" It just resonated with Truth. Thank you for sharing all your studying and learning with us. To say it opened my mind is to put it mildly.
deb
reply by the author on 29-May-2011
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Wow! I'm speechless to explain how and why so many of what you've written about has smacked me in the head. I kept nodding and saying "yes" out loud. There is so much that needs contemplation and further study. The one statement that will stay with me was, "The only thing that dies if your past" It just resonated with Truth. Thank you for sharing all your studying and learning with us. To say it opened my mind is to put it mildly.
deb
Comment Written 29-May-2011
reply by the author on 29-May-2011
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You encourage me. Thanks...John
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You're welcome
deb
Comment from Kingsland
The only way to finding oneself is to find nothing. You need to get rid of all of your preconceived ideas that are clouding the mind. Religion has and will continue to cloud so many perspectives. I am one that looks at the teachings of men, like Jesus and Gandhi. To find a better way of being. Religions like to put their own stamp on their own truths. The only truth that really matters is the truth that hasn't been weaved into a falsehood. It is so very easy to put your own spin on truth. That is what most religions will do. This was a rather lengthy article, but I really enjoyed pursuing it. First you need to find nothing and then you'll be open for everything...
Just around the Corner
Two hundred million miles
Is just around the corner in outer space
Just exactly what does that mean to the human race
Distance is all relative to where you are at your time and place
A tall mountain
A grain of sand
What is in the grand scope that is planned?
In our plane of existence, what can be controlled?
What is young?
What has age?
What is in our control?
Nothing and everything
Some thing's are better left un-tread
Other things are better yet, put to bed
Distance is a measure
Time is our pleasure
Two hundred million miles to roam in a galaxy zone
Do we have an answer?
Do we know what flies?
Do we know what's inside the human mind?
So many questions in a vast distance
Put into a position of resistance
Words fly with meanings
Into this screening
All that is never deemed
Two hundred million miles that is never seen
With all of these questions
We look for some truth
With this vast distance
All is just around the corner
John Allen Kingsland
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The highest and the lowest rating are not included in calculations.
reply by the author on 29-May-2011
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The only way to finding oneself is to find nothing. You need to get rid of all of your preconceived ideas that are clouding the mind. Religion has and will continue to cloud so many perspectives. I am one that looks at the teachings of men, like Jesus and Gandhi. To find a better way of being. Religions like to put their own stamp on their own truths. The only truth that really matters is the truth that hasn't been weaved into a falsehood. It is so very easy to put your own spin on truth. That is what most religions will do. This was a rather lengthy article, but I really enjoyed pursuing it. First you need to find nothing and then you'll be open for everything...
Just around the Corner
Two hundred million miles
Is just around the corner in outer space
Just exactly what does that mean to the human race
Distance is all relative to where you are at your time and place
A tall mountain
A grain of sand
What is in the grand scope that is planned?
In our plane of existence, what can be controlled?
What is young?
What has age?
What is in our control?
Nothing and everything
Some thing's are better left un-tread
Other things are better yet, put to bed
Distance is a measure
Time is our pleasure
Two hundred million miles to roam in a galaxy zone
Do we have an answer?
Do we know what flies?
Do we know what's inside the human mind?
So many questions in a vast distance
Put into a position of resistance
Words fly with meanings
Into this screening
All that is never deemed
Two hundred million miles that is never seen
With all of these questions
We look for some truth
With this vast distance
All is just around the corner
John Allen Kingsland
This rating does not count towards story rating or author rank.
The highest and the lowest rating are not included in calculations.
Comment Written 29-May-2011
reply by the author on 29-May-2011
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hank you so much for taking the time...John