I Just Don't Understand It!
From the POV of a nonbeliever3 total reviews
Comment from T B Botts
Hello Charlotte,
I've been deleting posts right and left tonight because I can't possibly review them all. A number of people write poems, and while I do read them, I prefer stories, or articles such as the one you've written. I'm so glad I didn't delete this without first giving a thorough read.
First, I want to thank you for your honest post. I think that unless we can be honest with each other, there is no sense in even having a conversation. That being said, I'll express my feelings and beliefs.
I do believe in God, that He is a living spirit that loves all of His creation. As a Christian, I believe that He sent His son Jesus to earth to die in our place, since there is no way that humans can be perfect, we needed a substitute.
I can certainly understand having questions about the existence of God, but in all honesty, if one looks just at the natural world around us, the seasons, the amount and diversity of life, the way the stars shine at night, the planets and galaxies, the sea and the weather, everything about this earth says that there is a caring, loving God who created all of it. It didn't come about by accident.
I have a book before me written by the grandson of the man who founded Our Daily Bread, a monthly devotional that helped me in a very dark time of my life. It's called- Been Thinking About. In the first chapter, titled, Imponderables, the first question the author asks is- "Where did God come from? Could a creator who made the earth out of nothing come from nowhere? Even a lowly mosquito doesn't just happen without a spawning pond or puddle."
He goes on to ask, "What was this God doing for the eternity before us?"
I can't go in to a lot more detail, it's getting late and I could be here all night writing, which I don't have the energy to do.
I don't know if you're familiar with the book of Job in the bible. The bible says he was a righteous man, and yet the Lord let him suffer the loss of his wealth, his children, his friends and his health. It doesn't sound like a very compassionate God does it? Nonetheless, at one point, near the end of the book, God confronts Job and asks him where he was when God was laying the foundation of the earth, and set the boundaries for the seas. He questions him on many other things, and in the end gives him twice as much as he had before. Its an unfortunate thing that bad things happen in the world, or what appears bad to us. God doesn't give us the answer to all of our questions, whether we think it's fair or not. I know that He would welcome your questions if you were to ask. You might not get answers to everything, but perhaps you would come away with a better understanding. I don't know if the book is still in publication, but if you would like a copy, I would be honored to buy you one if I can find it. Again, thanks so much for your honest post. I'm going to be praying for you and your son.
Have a blessed evening.
Tom
reply by the author on 11-Dec-2024
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Hello Charlotte,
I've been deleting posts right and left tonight because I can't possibly review them all. A number of people write poems, and while I do read them, I prefer stories, or articles such as the one you've written. I'm so glad I didn't delete this without first giving a thorough read.
First, I want to thank you for your honest post. I think that unless we can be honest with each other, there is no sense in even having a conversation. That being said, I'll express my feelings and beliefs.
I do believe in God, that He is a living spirit that loves all of His creation. As a Christian, I believe that He sent His son Jesus to earth to die in our place, since there is no way that humans can be perfect, we needed a substitute.
I can certainly understand having questions about the existence of God, but in all honesty, if one looks just at the natural world around us, the seasons, the amount and diversity of life, the way the stars shine at night, the planets and galaxies, the sea and the weather, everything about this earth says that there is a caring, loving God who created all of it. It didn't come about by accident.
I have a book before me written by the grandson of the man who founded Our Daily Bread, a monthly devotional that helped me in a very dark time of my life. It's called- Been Thinking About. In the first chapter, titled, Imponderables, the first question the author asks is- "Where did God come from? Could a creator who made the earth out of nothing come from nowhere? Even a lowly mosquito doesn't just happen without a spawning pond or puddle."
He goes on to ask, "What was this God doing for the eternity before us?"
I can't go in to a lot more detail, it's getting late and I could be here all night writing, which I don't have the energy to do.
I don't know if you're familiar with the book of Job in the bible. The bible says he was a righteous man, and yet the Lord let him suffer the loss of his wealth, his children, his friends and his health. It doesn't sound like a very compassionate God does it? Nonetheless, at one point, near the end of the book, God confronts Job and asks him where he was when God was laying the foundation of the earth, and set the boundaries for the seas. He questions him on many other things, and in the end gives him twice as much as he had before. Its an unfortunate thing that bad things happen in the world, or what appears bad to us. God doesn't give us the answer to all of our questions, whether we think it's fair or not. I know that He would welcome your questions if you were to ask. You might not get answers to everything, but perhaps you would come away with a better understanding. I don't know if the book is still in publication, but if you would like a copy, I would be honored to buy you one if I can find it. Again, thanks so much for your honest post. I'm going to be praying for you and your son.
Have a blessed evening.
Tom
Comment Written 11-Dec-2024
reply by the author on 11-Dec-2024
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Oh Tom,
You're such a lovely man, thank you so much (again!) for your extremely kind words.
I spent 6 years in a convent boarding school, which gave me a very good insight into catholic religious beliefs, though my learning was concentrated more on the New Testament than the Old - ha ha I even got a 1 (the highest rating) in religious studies in the end of school exams.
Since then I have looked quite deeply into other forms of Christianity and other beliefs. But I think perhaps my brain has always been too analytical to just accept what I'm told without question. And I'm afraid those questions brought me to where I am today, an atheist.
Having said that, I would like to stress that at no time do I, nor have I ever tried to dissuade others from their beliefs, that wouldn't be right - Ben is a staunch believer and often wants to discuss religion with me but, as I know the strong influence I have on him, I always decline, which always disappoints him, but I refuse to influence him in his own choices and beliefs.
I have some Romany Gypsy friends in France who are deeply religious - Pentecostal I believe, they're such lovely people. One day, on relating the story of a miracle to me, one of the younger men suddenly said, "I'm not trying to convert you Charlotte, I just think it's such a shame that you won't be with us in paradise." I thought that was so lovely! :)
So, save your money Tom and buy something nice for yourself instead - as a gift from me, in appreciation of your kindness and generosity.
Charlotte
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Hello Charlotte,
thanks so much for writing back. I love the sincerity with which you write. I sometimes think more damage has been done in the name of the Lord than can possibly be imagined. The time I spent on the Christian farm was incredibly stressful, often. So much so that I had contemplated suicide at one point. Then I just decided I wasn't going to kill myself, I was going to kill the person who was giving me such grief. Fortunately, I came to my senses. I had a hard time imagining that God could allow some of the things that went on there. I made up my mind when I left though that I wasn't going to throw out the baby with the bath water so to speak. The fact that things weren't as they should have been in my mind didn't mean that God didn't love me. As I think I mentioned, I was distressed and angry when I left and it prompted me to write my first book. If you were comfortable giving me your address, I would be delighted to send you a complimentary copy. You might find we have a lot in common. I had a reputation on the farm of being a non-conformist which didn't set well with the eldership. One way or another, I'm so pleased that I'm learning a little about you. I absolutely love your honest heart gal.
Blessings,
Tom
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I'm so sorry Tom, that you had such a bad time there, and horrified to think you might have taken your own life because of it - but very pleased however that you decided against killing the perpetrator!! :)
I would love to read your memoir of that time in your life, I do find cults fascinating - though probably because I've never experienced one! But I don't live in the US, I'm in England, and knowing the cost of postage between our two countries I couldn't possibly accept such a kind and generous offer. Is it available to buy online?
I'd never thought of myself as non-conformist, but you're right, I am and always have been - but personally I think that's a good thing (who wants to be like everyone else anyway?) and I'm very pleased that you are too!
Have a wonderful day,
Charlotte
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Hello Charlotte,
I sell them on Amazon, but then Amazon just turns around and orders them from me, after taking a large percentage of the profit. You're right about the postage. I sent a copy to Wendy Gordon in Australia, and it was about $40.00 for postage, almost three times what the book was worth. Should you ever make a trip to the U S, give me advanced notice, and I'll make arrangements for one to be waiting for you.
I think there is a lot to be said about not going along with the crowd, especially when they're going in the wrong direction.
Have a blessed day gal.
Tom
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Yeah, right! 40 dollars is just a ridiculous price! I will certainly let you know if ever I find myself on US soil :)
Ha ha yes the crowd DO go the wrong direction!! How very well put!
Have a great day yourself.
Charlotte
Comment from Michael Ludwinder
Your writing brings up some deep questions! I really felt your raw emotion as you questioned the idea of faith - especially in the face of tragedy. The story of the fire was especially powerful and it really stuck with me. Your words make you think. Faith can be so hard to understand when bad things happen and I admire how you shared that. Your honesty in your writing really shines through!
reply by the author on 11-Dec-2024
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Your writing brings up some deep questions! I really felt your raw emotion as you questioned the idea of faith - especially in the face of tragedy. The story of the fire was especially powerful and it really stuck with me. Your words make you think. Faith can be so hard to understand when bad things happen and I admire how you shared that. Your honesty in your writing really shines through!
Comment Written 09-Dec-2024
reply by the author on 11-Dec-2024
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Thank you so much for your kind words Michael.
I was a bit nervous about posting it knowing how many members are deeply religious, so I'm glad it hasn't caused anyone any offence - sometimes my total honesty gets me into trouble! :)
Charlotte
Comment from Peter Jarvis
Your entry for the Faith Flash contest is a compelling and provocative reflection on the complexities of faith, especially in the face of tragedy. Your story of the devout old lady and the devastating fire powerfully illustrates your struggle to understand and reconcile the concept of unwavering faith with the harsh realities of life.
Your writing raises important and thought-provoking questions about the nature of faith, the reasons people hold onto it, and the role it plays in their lives. You eloquently express your personal perspective and skepticism, while also acknowledging the diverse beliefs and choices of others.
The narrative is poignant and heart-wrenching, capturing the reader's attention and encouraging them to reflect on their own views about faith. The conclusion, where you express your desire for clarity on God's motives, underscores the human quest for understanding and meaning in the face of inexplicable events.
reply by the author on 11-Dec-2024
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Your entry for the Faith Flash contest is a compelling and provocative reflection on the complexities of faith, especially in the face of tragedy. Your story of the devout old lady and the devastating fire powerfully illustrates your struggle to understand and reconcile the concept of unwavering faith with the harsh realities of life.
Your writing raises important and thought-provoking questions about the nature of faith, the reasons people hold onto it, and the role it plays in their lives. You eloquently express your personal perspective and skepticism, while also acknowledging the diverse beliefs and choices of others.
The narrative is poignant and heart-wrenching, capturing the reader's attention and encouraging them to reflect on their own views about faith. The conclusion, where you express your desire for clarity on God's motives, underscores the human quest for understanding and meaning in the face of inexplicable events.
Comment Written 09-Dec-2024
reply by the author on 11-Dec-2024
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Hi Peter,
Thank you so much for your extremely eloquent review. I appreciate your kind words very much, particularly the lack of condemnation of my own words nor any persuasion to change my opinions.
I hope you have a wonderful day.
Charlotte
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Hi Charlotte
I worked in prisons for 26 years and have stared at the very epitome of evil. I join you in your thoughts
Take care and stay safe
Blessings
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Oh wow Peter, what an experience! Have you written of your time there? It would make fascinating reading, particularly for those of us who have never had such an experience and have no a clue as to the day to day life involved in a job like that.
I'm pleased I'm not alone in my thoughts :)
Charlotte