metaphorically I presume, as unless you can transcend space and time - which given this thread is entirely possible - I see that a physical slap may be difficult, at least in the here and now.
I thought that's where you were going with this...well I think it's nothing more than human nature - either instinctive or taught - that we seem to "need" a belief and one that is structured at that. As we get older many rebel at having it "forced down their throats" whereas others embrace the regimentation of the system.
and to add to Lorraine's question, Gibs, are you simply saying that you find it unnecessary to label oneself as a particular denomination regardless of faith?
Few, if any, of us agree completely with our government yet, we are proud to call ourselves Canadians. Yes, there are holes in this loose analogy but, is the concept not really the same?
Having been on the receiving end more times than the giving end I can only say that candor & honesty show the other person the most respect.
Lying in an attempt to save their feelings may seem logical at the time but the bottom line is the same: you're breaking up with them. A lie will either be seen through at the time or realized later and only make it worse.
Feelings will be hurt either way so, show respect for the other and tell the truth (although some lies of omission may be permitted!)
I most certainly am not saying that. The core essence of Christianity is the belief of Christ. I'm referring to certain rules as Rene was pointing out earlier for example. I don't agree with the church's stand on priests being married, women in the priesthood or their view on birth control. None of these preclude me from "labeling" myself as both Catholic and Christian, nor do they affect my faith or beliefs.
"why not just believe what you believe, and set aside the church and label of being a Catholic?"
Indeed, many do just that however, many also require a certain structure to follow their faith or guidance or facilitating. Others may prefer to follow their faith in the presence of others that share the same.
If that person does not follow or believe everything that the church teaches them is that really a problem?
Well said there Rene, now my 2 cents worth as I missed all of this last night:
Gibs, Let me get this straight…my neighbour (hypothetically) is a staunch Catholic and adheres to all its’ tenets and practices blindly his faith. I, on the other hand, take issue and disagree with numerous laws of the Catholic Religion. My neighbour, while going through the motions blindly and with little thought is then perceived as a Catholic whereas I, who’s faith may be considered stronger, in that I give thought to my relationship with God, am not.
Practicing of faith does not need to be an “all or nothing” proposition as you seem to interpret it. As Jonquille noted, there will always be those Priests that would agree with you and demand full adherence to the Catholic faith. Somewhere around the corner though, will be another that has more liberal views and will accept you.
I interpret the quotation from the beginning of this thread as asking if it is possible to reach a state of awareness of oneself, God and both together. How is this state then to be defined or measured? As such it is both intangible and personal and therefore, no one but oneself can answer the question.
Having said that though, the statement and it’s implications appear subjective causing dichotomy…
right....let's all feed the Taliban and with appetites sated they will all raise a glass and lay down their arms...
Would that it were that easy, spidermoose.
Witness - as but one small example - the unrest in Somalia in the early 90's: corrupt warlords battling for power and seizing humanitarian aid food shipments under the noses of the UN.
It is a simple fact that military intervention will always be needed to assist those that cannot defend themselves from corrupt and unjust regimes.
Correct me if I am wrong - what with not being a psychologist and all - but is resorting to name calling not the first step in realizing that one is losing an argument or debate?
arthurdent Forum Posts (490)
sis has a tattoo?!?!? 
RE: Losing your religion?
metaphorically I presume, as unless you can transcend space and time - which given this thread is entirely possible - I see that a physical slap may be difficult, at least in the here and now.