Posted by Todd (63.10.28.180) on August 22, 1999 at 23:13:21:
In Reply to: Every Word We Speak posted by A Dame on August 22, 1999 at 22:54:03:
Well put, Susan.
I've avoided addressing the religous posts because I am one of the 'unbelievers'. Please note, I didn't say non-believer. I have yet to decide how I feel, so I suppose agnostic is the closest term to describe me. I do believe in many things, however, and here are a few:
One needn't accept all the tenets of formal religion to see the wisdom and validity in the precepts most religions proffer. Tolerance, compassion, love for one's fellow man/woman and the offer of a helping hand when needed need not be exclusive to those who believe in a higher power.
Prejudice, bigotry and discrimination are wrong. No further explanation needed. Anyone who believes in religious ideology and gets down on one who doesn't is just as wrong as one who doesn't believe getting down on one who does.
The world is a huge, wonderful place. It has room for not only all of us, but all of our beliefs, ideas, dreams, desires, accomplishments, failures, passions and regrets. Stand up for that which you believe. Defend my right to believe that which I do, as I will defend your right to believe that which you will. Do not attempt to sway or change me, as I will not attempt to sway or change you, for true change comes only from within. Accept my offerings in the spirit in which they are given-as my experiences, thoughts, opinions and often idle mental wanderings, as I will accept your's as they are offered.
In a recent post, Cathy explained her beliefs and position very clearly, concisely and non-judgementally. She included a comment that she welcomed philosophical discussions. She and I had once such, albeit brief, discussion in Rochester. She earned my undying respect through the way in which she presented her case. I only hope I came close to causing her to feel the same.
KTSSU,
T