The reason I am considering joining the Catholic faith is because of things solely to do with the Catholic faith, not simply only Christian values, but rather, those that I find common only in Catholicism... and i really don't particularly appreciate being told what to do with my faith, despite the fact you may not have been trying to do such. There's still a great many things I'm exploring, but what i ultimately decide to do is ultimately MY choice, not yours... Besides this, what Arguas said is overall fairly accurate.. I detest it when people attempt to force faith upon others...it is actually sad...
Anyway! Enough of the religious talk... I just played quite a bit of Chronotrigger....ton of fun! and tomorrow i'm gonna go to the mall and replace my copy of Wild Arms 3, and I finally got to the part in the dungeons where there's a save point for Chronotrigger... I wasn't able to use the penand paper save thing in the menu for some reason..maybe there's some fancy button combo i need to use, but any ordinary one just won't work..
Also just got done playing Golf Monopoly with my mom and her boyfriend.. it was a lot of fun Anybody play golf???
Seriously, the topic of religion is kind of depressing and quite volatile... especially for a place like the Coffeehouse... I would actually prefer we not talk about this kind of thing, just to spare people's feelings, as I've already come close to slightly taking offense, due to my father and Arguas being Catholic, and I just personally feel strongly about certain things, and I COULD ramble on and on about my particular beliefs, but I don't really want to, honestly.
Congratulations on the placing. Its funny with vore though, i couldve swore it was a dying breed.
Me too, but I don't really know why. But it does have quite a favorable matchup against me and my mana-hungry (and Karoo-heavy) deck. It was the only deck I thought I could have problems with before the tournament started, so I ran 8 anti-Vore cards in my sideboard. But when they fail to show up, things get difficult.
Quote from kevinliu2333 »
@Sene: Congrats on the 2nd place in your FNM and keep it up you will become an excellent magic player.
Well thats great that your going to sleep really well tonight its always good to have plenty of rest before the next day i am happy for you.
Thanks Well, I slept 14 hours I think, it was very nice to sleep in a bed again
Quote from Mortal Wombat »
@Strongbad: I know that Arguas is a fairly religious Christian, but I don't know about others here. I'm neither a Christian nor very religious, so I can't join. And Vore = Magnivore decks. They use a bunch of land kill spells and Wildfire to control the board then slap down a big Magnivore. Some run Tron and all run Signets.
I am not Christian, so I can't join Strongbad's clan either... I'm sorry about that I'm atheist. So if I were to join that clan, my posts could border on trolling.
Quote from 2QT2BSTR8 »
So, as I stated yesterday, I myself have been having this idea for a clan. Basically, I am a huge fan of Angels, especially the ones in Magic: The Gathering. I wanted to create a clan for all of us who are like me, and love and adore MTG Angels. We could talk some of the people who design banners into making banners with our favorite angels and the Clan name in it. The clan would basically discuss various decks over Magic's life that featured or were based around angels, discuss current decks, favorite angel artwork, the presence of Angels in Time Spiral, and we would basically just hang out and discuss everyday things in the game and anything else we feel like talking about. Would love to have some help with this project, and I have ideas for leadership roles within the clan. So, if anyone else thinks this would be an okay idea, let me know, and I can fill out an application.
It seems like a very good idea, but you know... only one clan at a time... I'm in 499... So I can't join. But I'd like to become a friend
Quote from 2QT2BSTR8 »
@ Everyone- You know, I am so confused right now. I am looking for something that I feel like playing in Type 2, but all of that Solar Pox/Flare/Fire/whatever the heck decks, and the U/G aggro, and Fader, all those decks bore me. Whats a decent deck worth trying right now that I could test out?
Looking for a deck that won't bore you? A deck that I've been very happy with so far, which is both strong and cool to play is "That Girl". I can give you my decklist, which I'm currently running (but remember my metagame is a control-heavy one):
2 Confiscate = greatness against control or mid-range decks. Sacred Mesa mocks Martyr decks. The only other card I have considered is Bogardan Hellkite, but which I haven't tested, because I have none.
I really like this deck, it’s great fun to play with, much because of Confiscates, which I’ve done amazing things with. Yesterday, I stole both a Sunforger and a Sunhome, Fortress of the Legion to make Lightning Angel 7/4 and double strike. Against another opponent, I stole his Doubling Season not only to set him back, but I also had Sacred Mesa in play, and that was game pretty quickly. I’ve also used it to steal troublesome Debtors’ Knells, Sacred Mesas, Akromas, and countless other cards.
Quote from 2QT2BSTR8 »
@ Everyone- Hey, are any of you playing in the Extended PTQ season coming up?
I'll play, but I'm not sure with what deck. I have a The Rock deck I really love (but I have to remove some cards for it to be legal), and I have TEPS, and I have Psychatog (both Madness and classic). I'm steering towards TEPS right now, because I love Mind's Desire.
Homosexuality: Not a sin. It's just difference.
I have too little time to read all your walls of text, I'll get back to them later if I find I have some opinions on them.
@Danica. I have been raised in the Catholic faith, and my mom converted when I was a young child. I asked her a few years ago, when I was having trouble with the Church, why she decided to join it. She informed me that she had checked out several different Christian Churches, but the Catholic one just felt more like a home. She said it fit like a glove, and she has enjoyed it ever since.
So that is what I think you should look for. Follow your heart, and it will tell you what the right decision is.
I apologize for continuing this conversation, but it's something important to me, and I felt I should chime in.
Good morning everyone! Such a full conversation today! Now I know why Mamelon is the best Debater. Still, quite a bit of a read this morning. I'll drop my 2 cents, then we can all roll on to the next topic.
Homosexuality: I'm gonna be with the majority here when I say it's not a sinful or even a socially unacceptible or shameful thing. Homosexuality really shouldn't be someone ELSE's business. If you're gay, then that's a decision you make. The only people that it should matter to that you like other guys or girls are the people you're with, really. Everyone else should just let it be. Of course, we're a long way from that, but I don't care who you like to ****. It's not my business.
Christianity: I gave it a try. I really, really did. I would go into detail about my ordeal with Christianity but I would be painting a bad picture of a bad place. Let me just say that my experience with it has left me doubtful at the least. I've decided to follow my own unwritten form of personal faith. I do not worship anything; I pray, but I do not expect results. I acknowledge the possibility of God, but that's the extent of it. I am agnostic.
Okay, let's see... Gayness and religion are very touchy topics, which Mamelon has already stated. So it's possible that I may offend someone with this post (Warning!).
First, my opinion on religion: I am not religious. It is possible that I was once, but when I started to think and figure out religion, when I was 12-13 years old, I decided that I don't believe in supernatural beings at all. Such as spirits, undead, ghosts, and gods. Why? Because it isn't logical. It isn't logical that an invisible being created the world out of nothing. Invisible - in the meaning of transparent? I don't think so. And if not, it has to mean that it doesn't exist.
I believe that religion was invented by the ancient wise men of their tribes. If there was a question they couldn't answer, it was very easy to just say it's the god of this and that that has made it so. Such as lightning, sunrise/sunset. Everyone believed them, of course, and this gave them more power and higher positions in the society. I have no evidence of this, obviously, but I think it's logical.
I think there was a person called Jesus 2000 years ago, and he did a lot of good things, and was a very wise person. But I don't believe in all the miracles, and that he was sent by a God person. As the story about him passed from person to person and finally to the ones writing it down, it changed from the truth into something close to a legend.
This counts for every religion, but they all have different stories.
The Church had much more power before than it has now, but I would say it's the origin (indirectly or directly) of some of the "fear" humans have for different people - like gays. When the Church has said that being gay is a sin, then they are right, many people think. But it is wrong. Being gay is not a sin, it's not an offense, it should be tolerated and respected. I see no reason why being gay is wrong, other than it does not create any children, which is in my opinion, no reason at all.
I have many more opinions than that, but I'm not very good at write them down and explain them, and especially not in English...
One thing I'll say is that Catholics tend to have better social services for their parishioners than members of some Protestant groups. This is important to me because I grew up on welfare and Food Stamps, and ate a LOT of suppers at St. James Kitchen.
Disclaimer: The following is just my opinion, I'm not stating any of this as hard fact, just an impression I've gotten in my old age
Some Protestant groups have more of an individualistic, materialistic mindset and some do not require any act of charity or compassion at all. While they may have the benefit of a more indulgent and liberal set of beliefs and values, they don't seem to me as cohesive or supportive. There's definitely a bit of class consciousness even among Protestants - you don't often see an inner-city Lutheran church serving impoverished Lutherans the same way you see the African churches and Catholics with their kitchens and charity drives.
That said, there is nothing quite as fearsome as a nun with a ruler :shudder:
Not to throw the topic in a different direction, but the topic of homosexuality and religion is really, really touchy with me, mainly due to the fact that I'm stubborn and usually don't change my opinions.
So in other news, what are your guys' thoughts on the planeshifted cards and the like that seems to be showing up in Ye Olde Rumor Mill? I personally like the thought of a Drop of Honey in white.... It'll fit well in control
Also, TP Update: I now have finished the Cave of Ordeals, have all 20 hearts, caught all 24 bugs, have killed 36 Poes, have the Magic Armor (which I apologize earlier for, mainly due to the fact that it saved my ass in the Cave of Ordeals. I kinda didn't realized it made you invincible :D), Have the Giant Quiver, have the Giant Bomb Bags, have all three bomb bags, all 4 bottles... ya you get the picture Although I don't have either the frog lure or the Sinking Lure yet for fishing. And I have to kill all the poes. Other than that, I just have the end of the game
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Uncle [T]utor of the [T]'s Winner of Weekly Contest 46!
I think PC will do exactly what every recent sey has done. it will make white more annoying, and yet blue will still be dominant.
All the other colors are basically just there for fun.
Although that statement holds a lot of validity, I still think the other colors are gonna get their due process. Let's face it, getting counterspells in other colors is always a good thing.
And what I think is funny is that people the bling dragons will be added in Dragonstorm... when you have Bogardan Hellkites that kill them faster
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Uncle [T]utor of the [T]'s Winner of Weekly Contest 46!
I would try martyr tron or just martyr. If you love laughing at your opponents burn spells at 180 or so life, its the deck for you. its also quite foolproof.
@ Alacar: Thanks. I was pretty bored when i made it... Let the eyebleeding begin!
@ Arguas: Hate to say it, but i was on advanced :/
Did you read the part where I said you click Back 3 times and there's your post? Remember to log in again before you click back. There'll be your post
The reason I am considering joining the Catholic faith is because of things solely to do with the Catholic faith, not simply only Christian values, but rather, those that I find common only in Catholicism... and i really don't particularly appreciate being told what to do with my faith, despite the fact you may not have been trying to do such. There's still a great many things I'm exploring, but what i ultimately decide to do is ultimately MY choice, not yours... Besides this, what Arguas said is overall fairly accurate.. I detest it when people attempt to force faith upon others...it is actually sad...
Anyway! Enough of the religious talk... I just played quite a bit of Chronotrigger....ton of fun! and tomorrow i'm gonna go to the mall and replace my copy of Wild Arms 3, and I finally got to the part in the dungeons where there's a save point for Chronotrigger... I wasn't able to use the penand paper save thing in the menu for some reason..maybe there's some fancy button combo i need to use, but any ordinary one just won't work...
Seriously, the topic of religion is kind of depressing and quite volatile... especially for a place like the Coffeehouse... I would actually prefer we not talk about this kind of thing, just to spare people's feelings, as I've already come close to slightly taking offense, due to my father and Arguas being Catholic, and I just personally feel strongly about certain things, and I COULD ramble on and on about my particular beliefs, but I don't really want to, honestly.
Bleh..gnite.
Just wanted to say Danica a couple of things here... 1) Although it looks like you're trying to tone down the religion discussion, it looks like 80% of your post is also about it However, thank you for backing up what I said on that subject 2) sometimes I have a hard time not being insulted by this stuff too, but everyone wants to express their own beliefs, and that's something I remember too. As I said before, if you choose it as your faith, it's your choice, and everyone here is simply providing their opinions. So far, it doesn't look like the conversation has gotten too far out of control... right?
One thing I'll say is that Catholics tend to have better social services for their parishioners than members of some Protestant groups. This is important to me because I grew up on welfare and Food Stamps, and ate a LOT of suppers at St. James Kitchen.
Disclaimer: The following is just my opinion, I'm not stating any of this as hard fact, just an impression I've gotten in my old age
Some Protestant groups have more of an individualistic, materialistic mindset and some do not require any act of charity or compassion at all. While they may have the benefit of a more indulgent and liberal set of beliefs and values, they don't seem to me as cohesive or supportive. There's definitely a bit of class consciousness even among Protestants - you don't often see an inner-city Lutheran church serving impoverished Lutherans the same way you see the African churches and Catholics with their kitchens and charity drives.
That said, there is nothing quite as fearsome as a nun with a ruler :shudder:
Ah, both a good and bad example of people in faith. It shows you that churches are the people who run them, and therefore are quite diverse.
Also, to Omna, I was thinking I would talk to you more about this when we expected to, but to be honest I'm more insulted by how your mom is treating your new hobbies than the talk about religion Seriously, you know that I could go on and on about what video games have done for me, and not only am I living proof of it, but I can also show her things that she would never expect that would maybe change her views on it. Seriously, I think I've gotten my mom to appreciate it at least enough now! The solution is Final Fantasy X music I'm dead serious too.
Wow, it's actually snowing here... It's been a while since I've seen it.
My interest in the three-colored dragon lies in the fact that I run WBR Control. He'd be a perfect fit. I just hope the card will be good. But, judging by the other laked dragons, i do not think it will disappoint.
@Mamelon: Color me impressed. That's enough writing for a short paper, and it'd probably win you some points with whoever you turned it in to.
I'm off work now and am about to head over to Walmart to see whether my estranged father's christmas money has arrived. I still need to check back a few pages, but I'm happy to quit the discussion we were on, since it is ever so sensitive an area.
As for the Planar Chaos cards, I really like their idea of using a white font to indicate cards that are being reprinted into a different color. The blue Funeral Charm clone, Pirate Charm, for example, looks neat with the white font. I also find the prerelease card interesting, because it indicates an "enemy color" cycle of Invasion-esque dragons. My brother will be happy to get a dragon as the prerelease card.
The reason I am considering joining the Catholic faith is because of things solely to do with the Catholic faith, not simply only Christian values, but rather, those that I find common only in Catholicism... and i really don't particularly appreciate being told what to do with my faith, despite the fact you may not have been trying to do such. There's still a great many things I'm exploring, but what i ultimately decide to do is ultimately MY choice, not yours...
First of all, I apologize for anything I said that may have offended you. It was not my intention at all to put you or Catholicism down. I've often been told my posts articulate what other people are thinking better than their own posts, but in this case the reverse was true. Pretty much everyone who has posted on the topic has communicated what I was thinking in a more balanced and respectful manner than I did. So, thank you folks.
That said, I would like to point out that it's rather unfair to open a topic for discussion and then be upset with people who discuss that topic. Though others had brought up the topic of Christianity via the possible new clan discussion, it was you who introduced Catholicism and exploring faith as a topic. I understand that one's choice of faith is an intensely personal matter, but you were the one who made that personal matter public. If you didn't want any input from anybody else on the subject, then it would have made more sense to not bring it up at all.
But you know what? This Coffeehouse is supposed to be about creating and fostering friendships, isn't it? Striving to keep a friendly and pleasant atmosphere is great, but real freindships are formed from the tough stuff in life. Real friends have fights, tell each other when they're being stupid, talk about the touchy subjects, etc., and they do it without being disrespectful. I don't see why it should be any different here, at least among the folks who come here regularly and have gotten to know each other pretty well. Though I don't really know you well, Danica, I have gotten to know you a lot better than the majority of my other online acquaintances and I honestly care about your well being. If I've not earned the right to discuss the touchier topics with you, then so be it. I'll faithfully do my part to keep the Coffeehouse controversy-free. I guess at some point, though, friendliness and fun at the cost of meaningful discussion just starts to feel superficial. Maybe it's just me.
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The Golden Rule of forums: If you're going to be rude, be right. If you might be wrong, be polite.
But you know what? This Coffeehouse is supposed to be about creating and fostering friendships, isn't it? Striving to keep a friendly and pleasant atmosphere is great, but real freindships are formed from the tough stuff in life. Real friends have fights, tell each other when they're being stupid, talk about the touchy subjects, etc., and they do it without being disrespectful. I don't see why it should be any different here, at least among the folks who come here regularly and have gotten to know each other pretty well. Though I don't really know you well, Danica, I have gotten to know you a lot better than the majority of my other online acquaintances and I honestly care about your well being. If I've not earned the right to discuss the touchier topics with you, then so be it. I'll faithfully do my part to keep the Coffeehouse controversy-free. I guess at some point, though, friendliness and fun at the cost of meaningful discussion just starts to feel superficial. Maybe it's just me.
Thats a good point Kraj, although personally I'd prefer that if both sides want to continue a respectful arguement they do it in pm form. Simply because its more than likely not including the whole house and I'd rather not have the atmosphere changed by an arguement for too long.
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I'll bet you wish you had a non-unglued/unhinged card that shared your first name.
The reason I introduced Catholicism was because I felt like putting my two cents in, as everyone else did, also mainly to put forth a correction on MW's part...and I'm not trying to go against what the CoffeeHouse stands for in any way, but I don't like to see something be carried on forever in this form, as its often done in the past... We've had this experience before, and it can be difficult to get people to switch subjects, so i was trying to do that as quickly as possible.... basically comment on the fact that I have some religious considerations of my own, and then begin slowly to move the process onwards.... My apologies if it seems I am not furthering the mission of the CoffeeHouse by this.
@Arguas, bout my mom: I know!!! Its so frustrating.... I wish there was a way she could see what kinds of benefits I get from gaming... I DID try to show her Katamari Damacy, and she thought it was "cute cuz you don't kill things".... which only made me sigh in exasperation.. sometimes i honestly wish you were here to back me up on this thing! And I'm sure we'll talk more about that in a day or two.
As for me, I haven't had the chance to check out the Planar Chaos stuff (boy am i excited, tho!!!) .. and as we already have a carpool lined up, we will definitely be going to the Prerelease... I'm so jazzed... Crimson, any chance of you makin' it to this one? So i'll be checking out the PC stuff when I get back to Rochester most likely...
Also, now I need to go out to lunch with the females of my family (mom, grandma, aunt and older cousin) .... we're going to a nice sandwich spot with live music called "Avalon"... anyway.... Golf monopoly was fun last nihgt... then i think we're going to the mall... its a shame cuz an old friend will be dropping through on the way back into town, but I doubti will be here.. so i'll be picking up another copy of Wild ARMs 3 and stuff... anyway...
good afternoon everybody! I have some errands to do today but then i will probably play dragon quest 7 and possibly final fantasy 12 as well. I was also might play wild arms alter code f again to see if i can finish more sidequests.
I probably will be gone for most of the afternoon but i will see you all soon though. Have a good weekend everyone! *blows kisses to everyone in the coffeehouse*
Not to throw the topic in a different direction, but the topic of homosexuality and religion is really, really touchy with me, mainly due to the fact that I'm stubborn and usually don't change my opinions.
So in other news, what are your guys' thoughts on the planeshifted cards and the like that seems to be showing up in Ye Olde Rumor Mill? I personally like the thought of a Drop of Honey in white.... It'll fit well in control
Also, TP Update: I now have finished the Cave of Ordeals, have all 20 hearts, caught all 24 bugs, have killed 36 Poes, have the Magic Armor (which I apologize earlier for, mainly due to the fact that it saved my ass in the Cave of Ordeals. I kinda didn't realized it made you invincible :D), Have the Giant Quiver, have the Giant Bomb Bags, have all three bomb bags, all 4 bottles... ya you get the picture Although I don't have either the frog lure or the Sinking Lure yet for fishing. And I have to kill all the poes. Other than that, I just have the end of the game
Thats kind of funny. Did you use a guide or anything? (Ugh guides <_<)
Yeah im only on the lakebed temple <_< The zora armor makes you look like a girl Lol.
Alot of the planeshifted cards havent impressed me so far. was hoping crovax would be better. Its a shame. Drop of honey in white would be absolutely insane. no doubt.
Thats kind of funny. Did you use a guide or anything? (Ugh guides <_<)
Yeah im only on the lakebed temple <_< The zora armor makes you look like a girl Lol.
Alot of the planeshifted cards havent impressed me so far. was hoping crovax would be better. Its a shame. Drop of honey in white would be absolutely insane. no doubt.
Nah, I didn't :D. I'll just tell you right now the Zora Armor makes you look like more of a ninja then youll ever be
And yay for Drop of Honey in white!
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Uncle [T]utor of the [T]'s Winner of Weekly Contest 46!
Well, personally, I'm not gonna go into the whole Religion thing. It'd be really long-winded and probably incoherent.
As for other news, I'm still loving DQ8 and enjoying the snow outside. Yes, it snowed again. In fact, its still snowing right now! Last I heard, it was a total of 14 inches so far. I'll see if I can get a picture or two on here later on.
But you know what? This Coffeehouse is supposed to be about creating and fostering friendships, isn't it? Striving to keep a friendly and pleasant atmosphere is great, but real freindships are formed from the tough stuff in life. Real friends have fights, tell each other when they're being stupid, talk about the touchy subjects, etc., and they do it without being disrespectful. I don't see why it should be any different here, at least among the folks who come here regularly and have gotten to know each other pretty well. Though I don't really know you well, Danica, I have gotten to know you a lot better than the majority of my other online acquaintances and I honestly care about your well being. If I've not earned the right to discuss the touchier topics with you, then so be it. I'll faithfully do my part to keep the Coffeehouse controversy-free. I guess at some point, though, friendliness and fun at the cost of meaningful discussion just starts to feel superficial. Maybe it's just me.
I guess it depends on the delivery is all. You raise a strong point here, but I think what Omna is trying to say is that we don't want to discourage people from coming due to heated internal disputes. From what I understand, debate and discussion and forming friendships is fine, but I just think that Omna and I are a little concerned about things becoming more than that.
Well, personally, I'm not gonna go into the whole Religion thing. It'd be really long-winded and probably incoherent.
As for other news, I'm still loving DQ8 and enjoying the snow outside. Yes, it snowed again. In fact, its still snowing right now! Last I heard, it was a total of 14 inches so far. I'll see if I can get a picture or two on here later on.
*sputter*
No snow all year in MN or the East Coast but you guys are getting a nice snowpack up in them deserts
I just spent 4 hours dying slowly to some kid playing the Dutch in AOE III. He's a Major... gathered half a million in resources before mopping us up - 3 vs. 1
Alacar needs help! He's been doing so much other stuff that he's neglecting the Core set!
What's left in Core: 9 blue uncommons
9 blue rares
9 black uncommons
3 black rares
7 red rares
4 green commons
5 green uncommons
5 green rares
9 common artifacts
I will post what's in Core so far if anyone wants to know.
Of course there is a difference. Im Catholic not a protestant
Catholic and Protestant are both subtypes of Christian. Distinguishing someone is not a "fairly religious Christian" but a "fairly religious Catholic" is only adding nuance. There only difference between being Christian and being Catholic is one of detail.
Quote from Faerie Lord »
About Homosexuality. Personally, i have nothing against homosexuals. As long as they don't flaunt and try to convert everyone to homosexuality, i support them totally.
This is a vicious comment because you implicate that there is some tendency among homosexual people to try and "convert" others. There's no need to imply that, especially since it's not accurate, so you only demonstrate your bias.
Quote from Faerie Lord »
This is a part, for example in which i don't totally agree with the Catholic system. It is quoted in the bible that homosexuality is a sin but in a very vague way. Saint Paul once said it...if i can only find that. But in those ages lots of things were considered sins, so how can they keep such things literal. If we where to remain the same as 1940 years ago approx, we would be considering stars as evil!
Paul told a tale of people who were inflamed by overwhelming lust, including homosexual lust, as as a kind of symptom of defiance against God. The application of this anecdote to homosexuals in general I have already discussed.
However, Catholic moral belief isn't wholly based on Biblical anecdotes. As I've already explained, it's coherent with their moral paradigm as a whole (with a few exceptions). Their paradigm isn't Biblically necessary, not really, but it does entail certain ideas about sex and reproduction, all of which implicate comdemnation of non-heterosexual sex.
Quote from Omna15 »
Seriously, the topic of religion is kind of depressing and quite volatile... especially for a place like the Coffeehouse... I would actually prefer we not talk about this kind of thing, just to spare people's feelings, as I've already come close to slightly taking offense, due to my father and Arguas being Catholic, and I just personally feel strongly about certain things, and I COULD ramble on and on about my particular beliefs, but I don't really want to, honestly.
The way to avoid offending people when discussing controversies is to remain sensitive and calm and express things in a clear, neutrally-toned way.
It's really not fair to speak your piece on the matter and say "let's not talk about this anymore, I might be offended." It's probably safe to say that nearly everyone here has already been offended. Negative comments made so far regarding Christians have been extremely mild compared to negative comments made about homosexuals. People don't really like others disagreeing with them, especially since most tend to phrase their disagreements as statements of fact rather than statements of feeling.
Quote from Alacar Leoricar »
you're gay, then that's a decision you make.
Not really. I won't go into the full exposition that I've constructed before in Debate, but the possibility of sexual inclinations being a matter of conscious decision is miserable. Even if being non-heterosexuality isn't inborn, it's most probably at least a learned behavior.
Quote from SnoopDoggAtog »
Some Protestant groups have more of an individualistic, materialistic mindset and some do not require any act of charity or compassion at all. While they may have the benefit of a more indulgent and liberal set of beliefs and values, they don't seem to me as cohesive or supportive. There's definitely a bit of class consciousness even among Protestants - you don't often see an inner-city Lutheran church serving impoverished Lutherans the same way you see the African churches and Catholics with their kitchens and charity drives.
I've often found this, too. Many Protestant groups seem extremely concerned with their religious liberty, and less so with humanitarian effort and behavior. However, I've known several Baptist Churches who put a lot of time, money, and sweat into helping the poor, uneducated, and unhealthy, so it's not really a rule about Protestantism. Most Protestant Churches are far less organized than the Catholic Church, which makes a difference.
Protest groups have a huge amount of variation, so it gets confusing.
Quote from Mr. Stuff »
@Mamelon: Color me impressed. That's enough writing for a short paper, and it'd probably win you some points with whoever you turned it in to.
Thank you. What can I say, I get into stuff.
Unfortunately, I doubt many people even read it. Oh, well.
Quote from Kraj »
That said, I would like to point out that it's rather unfair to open a topic for discussion and then be upset with people who discuss that topic.
I concur. *nod, nod*
Quote from Kraj »
But you know what? This Coffeehouse is supposed to be about creating and fostering friendships, isn't it? Striving to keep a friendly and pleasant atmosphere is great, but real freindships are formed from the tough stuff in life. Real friends have fights, tell each other when they're being stupid, talk about the touchy subjects, etc., and they do it without being disrespectful. I don't see why it should be any different here, at least among the folks who come here regularly and have gotten to know each other pretty well. Though I don't really know you well, Danica, I have gotten to know you a lot better than the majority of my other online acquaintances and I honestly care about your well being. If I've not earned the right to discuss the touchier topics with you, then so be it. I'll faithfully do my part to keep the Coffeehouse controversy-free. I guess at some point, though, friendliness and fun at the cost of meaningful discussion just starts to feel superficial. Maybe it's just me.
This is a good point. I think the best way to cope with controversy that does come up is to be very aware that it is a controversy, and do your best to remain open-minded and receptive.
Quote from Omna15 »
My apologies if it seems I am not furthering the mission of the CoffeeHouse by this.
All that I yearn for, for richer or poorer, is to be the light that you see. All that I yearn for, for richer or poorer, is to be the peace that you feel. All that I yearn for, for richer or poorer, is to fill your heart on my own.
But the rainbow is an image of hope for many reasons, as it is a brilliant sight coming out of oftimes dismal weather.
I kinda feel bad about evening mentioning the whole homosexuality thing. I feel like I opened the floodgates a bit too much, which in turn created a heated debate. Lets discuss something more pertinent, like how good looking I am or something....
Anyway, yeah, so anyone who would like to be a friend to my clan or help me get it off the ground, please pm me. I would really like help in coming up with a wicked name, and a cool banner idea. Just let me know.
And while I was at work, I decided what I am going to play in the current standard environment. And that deck is ( drum roll please)........."This Girl!" Thanks to the helpful suggestion of another person here ( and you know who you are), I am going to play the deck Flores played. It looks good ( would probably look tons better completely foil, dont you think?), and from what I have heard from various people, it is extremely viable. Why not? I will give it a try.
This is a vicious comment because you implicate that there is some tendency among homosexual people to try and "convert" others. There's no need to imply that, especially since it's not accurate, so you only demonstrate your bias.
Viscious? Viscious is bringing up a rather popular stereotype into the conversation. I'm not saying he's right. That's what its a stereotype and not a fact after all... it isn't necessarily right.
The truth is some do in fact try to do this - either out of a joking nature taken all wrong or because they seriously try to do this. I'm not kidding. It's a stereotype for a reason people. The majority are jokes taken wrong and this is the problem. People need to lighten up - seriously.
The way to avoid offending people when discussing controversies is to remain sensitive and calm and express things in a clear, neutrally-toned way.
It's really not fair to speak your piece on the matter and say "let's not talk about this anymore, I might be offended." It's probably safe to say that nearly everyone here has already been offended. Negative comments made so far regarding Christians have been extremely mild compared to negative comments made about homosexuals. People don't really like others disagreeing with them, especially since most tend to phrase their disagreements as statements of fact rather than statements of feeling.
I couldn't agree more with above statement.
Quote from Not really. I won"t go into the full exposition that I"ve constructed before in Debate, but the possibility of sexual inclinations being a matter of conscious decision is miserable. Even if being non-heterosexuality isn"t inborn, it"s most probably at least a learned behavior. [/quote »
Word, yo! (Some rebuttal this is turning out to be.)
[quote] Thank you. What can I say, I get into stuff.
Unfortunately, I doubt many people even read it. Oh, well.
I hardly read any of it. Sorry. I'd say i'd go back and read it all but that'd be a lie. I just can't sit down and read anything that long without being distracted or something of that nature. Partial laziness too... There - at least I admitted it. It's really a shame tho that some people are like that but its the way we are in this hectic world and frankly I've come to accept it.
I doubt anyone will read this too tho the way its shaping....
We have a mission?
I believe it's to bring together people of differing backgrounds and talk about things we have in common. Or better yet to foster talk about any topic - civilly.
Religion: Yes I'm gonna give my views on this finally. I figure I owe at least that much after the topic passed on for so long.
Frankly, I think it all started as a way to teach the masses tons of lessons in a way they would understand and to have a belief system that discouraged "bad behavior." To keep this short I'll use homosexuality as an example and hopefully not offend anyone.
Let's face it - if the entire population of the world was only homosexual some feeling would definitely be lost in the reproductive cycle of humanity. Possibly a very bad world ending scenario if you weren't all that educated at the time. Which not many were (at least compared to people of today). So to make sure this didn't happen the writer of the bible (or the actual people in the story depending on whether it was exaggerated) made homosexuality activity a sin. And bam - a fable/story is born.
Does this mean that I don't believe in a God? Nope! I just think it's a little odd how the bible (and other such religious books) happen to have so many life lessons that seem to be very perfect in teaching said lessons.
Does this make me crazy? Possibly but I'll leave that up to you to decide.
Flame away!
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Anyway! Enough of the religious talk... I just played quite a bit of Chronotrigger....ton of fun! and tomorrow i'm gonna go to the mall and replace my copy of Wild Arms 3, and I finally got to the part in the dungeons where there's a save point for Chronotrigger... I wasn't able to use the penand paper save thing in the menu for some reason..maybe there's some fancy button combo i need to use, but any ordinary one just won't work..
Also just got done playing Golf Monopoly with my mom and her boyfriend.. it was a lot of fun Anybody play golf???
Seriously, the topic of religion is kind of depressing and quite volatile... especially for a place like the Coffeehouse... I would actually prefer we not talk about this kind of thing, just to spare people's feelings, as I've already come close to slightly taking offense, due to my father and Arguas being Catholic, and I just personally feel strongly about certain things, and I COULD ramble on and on about my particular beliefs, but I don't really want to, honestly.
Bleh..gnite.
Magic Coffeehouse!
Come in, sit down, relax, get to know somebody!
Open Three and a Half Years as of October 19, 2009!
Banner by PurpleD and avatar/custom by Tanthalas
Congratulations on the placing. Its funny with vore though, i couldve swore it was a dying breed.
Me too, but I don't really know why. But it does have quite a favorable matchup against me and my mana-hungry (and Karoo-heavy) deck. It was the only deck I thought I could have problems with before the tournament started, so I ran 8 anti-Vore cards in my sideboard. But when they fail to show up, things get difficult.
Well thats great that your going to sleep really well tonight its always good to have plenty of rest before the next day i am happy for you.
Thanks Well, I slept 14 hours I think, it was very nice to sleep in a bed again
I am not Christian, so I can't join Strongbad's clan either... I'm sorry about that I'm atheist. So if I were to join that clan, my posts could border on trolling.
It seems like a very good idea, but you know... only one clan at a time... I'm in 499... So I can't join. But I'd like to become a friend
Looking for a deck that won't bore you? A deck that I've been very happy with so far, which is both strong and cool to play is "That Girl". I can give you my decklist, which I'm currently running (but remember my metagame is a control-heavy one):
4x Hallowed Fountain
4x Sacred Foundry
3x Steam Vents
1x Battlefield Forge
4x Flagstones of Trokair
2x Boros Garrison
1x Izzet Boilerworks
1x Azorius Chancery
2x Plains
1x Mountain
1x Island
4x Court Hussar
4x Firemane Angel
4x Lightning Angel
Other spells (23)
4x Compulsive Research
4x Demonfire
3x Boros Signet
2x Azorius Signet
2x Confiscate
4x Lightning Helix
4x Wrath of God
1x Sacred Mesa
2 Confiscate = greatness against control or mid-range decks. Sacred Mesa mocks Martyr decks. The only other card I have considered is Bogardan Hellkite, but which I haven't tested, because I have none.
I really like this deck, it’s great fun to play with, much because of Confiscates, which I’ve done amazing things with. Yesterday, I stole both a Sunforger and a Sunhome, Fortress of the Legion to make Lightning Angel 7/4 and double strike. Against another opponent, I stole his Doubling Season not only to set him back, but I also had Sacred Mesa in play, and that was game pretty quickly. I’ve also used it to steal troublesome Debtors’ Knells, Sacred Mesas, Akromas, and countless other cards.
I'll play, but I'm not sure with what deck. I have a The Rock deck I really love (but I have to remove some cards for it to be legal), and I have TEPS, and I have Psychatog (both Madness and classic). I'm steering towards TEPS right now, because I love Mind's Desire.
Homosexuality: Not a sin. It's just difference.
I have too little time to read all your walls of text, I'll get back to them later if I find I have some opinions on them.
So that is what I think you should look for. Follow your heart, and it will tell you what the right decision is.
I apologize for continuing this conversation, but it's something important to me, and I felt I should chime in.
Homosexuality: I'm gonna be with the majority here when I say it's not a sinful or even a socially unacceptible or shameful thing. Homosexuality really shouldn't be someone ELSE's business. If you're gay, then that's a decision you make. The only people that it should matter to that you like other guys or girls are the people you're with, really. Everyone else should just let it be. Of course, we're a long way from that, but I don't care who you like to ****. It's not my business.
Christianity: I gave it a try. I really, really did. I would go into detail about my ordeal with Christianity but I would be painting a bad picture of a bad place. Let me just say that my experience with it has left me doubtful at the least. I've decided to follow my own unwritten form of personal faith. I do not worship anything; I pray, but I do not expect results. I acknowledge the possibility of God, but that's the extent of it. I am agnostic.
Now to go downstairs. Later all.
Like freeform roleplaying? Try Darkness Befalls Us
Ryttare Kelasin Luna Orelinalei
First, my opinion on religion: I am not religious. It is possible that I was once, but when I started to think and figure out religion, when I was 12-13 years old, I decided that I don't believe in supernatural beings at all. Such as spirits, undead, ghosts, and gods. Why? Because it isn't logical. It isn't logical that an invisible being created the world out of nothing. Invisible - in the meaning of transparent? I don't think so. And if not, it has to mean that it doesn't exist.
I believe that religion was invented by the ancient wise men of their tribes. If there was a question they couldn't answer, it was very easy to just say it's the god of this and that that has made it so. Such as lightning, sunrise/sunset. Everyone believed them, of course, and this gave them more power and higher positions in the society. I have no evidence of this, obviously, but I think it's logical.
I think there was a person called Jesus 2000 years ago, and he did a lot of good things, and was a very wise person. But I don't believe in all the miracles, and that he was sent by a God person. As the story about him passed from person to person and finally to the ones writing it down, it changed from the truth into something close to a legend.
This counts for every religion, but they all have different stories.
The Church had much more power before than it has now, but I would say it's the origin (indirectly or directly) of some of the "fear" humans have for different people - like gays. When the Church has said that being gay is a sin, then they are right, many people think. But it is wrong. Being gay is not a sin, it's not an offense, it should be tolerated and respected. I see no reason why being gay is wrong, other than it does not create any children, which is in my opinion, no reason at all.
I have many more opinions than that, but I'm not very good at write them down and explain them, and especially not in English...
Disclaimer: The following is just my opinion, I'm not stating any of this as hard fact, just an impression I've gotten in my old age
Some Protestant groups have more of an individualistic, materialistic mindset and some do not require any act of charity or compassion at all. While they may have the benefit of a more indulgent and liberal set of beliefs and values, they don't seem to me as cohesive or supportive. There's definitely a bit of class consciousness even among Protestants - you don't often see an inner-city Lutheran church serving impoverished Lutherans the same way you see the African churches and Catholics with their kitchens and charity drives.
That said, there is nothing quite as fearsome as a nun with a ruler :shudder:
So in other news, what are your guys' thoughts on the planeshifted cards and the like that seems to be showing up in Ye Olde Rumor Mill? I personally like the thought of a Drop of Honey in white.... It'll fit well in control
Also, TP Update: I now have finished the Cave of Ordeals, have all 20 hearts, caught all 24 bugs, have killed 36 Poes, have the Magic Armor (which I apologize earlier for, mainly due to the fact that it saved my ass in the Cave of Ordeals. I kinda didn't realized it made you invincible :D), Have the Giant Quiver, have the Giant Bomb Bags, have all three bomb bags, all 4 bottles... ya you get the picture Although I don't have either the frog lure or the Sinking Lure yet for fishing. And I have to kill all the poes. Other than that, I just have the end of the game
Winner of Weekly Contest 46!
All the other colors are basically just there for fun.
Oh, and all of the three-colored dragons has got me excited. Especially the :symw::symb::symr: one.
Although that statement holds a lot of validity, I still think the other colors are gonna get their due process. Let's face it, getting counterspells in other colors is always a good thing.
And what I think is funny is that people the bling dragons will be added in Dragonstorm... when you have Bogardan Hellkites that kill them faster
Winner of Weekly Contest 46!
Did you read the part where I said you click Back 3 times and there's your post? Remember to log in again before you click back. There'll be your post
Just wanted to say Danica a couple of things here... 1) Although it looks like you're trying to tone down the religion discussion, it looks like 80% of your post is also about it However, thank you for backing up what I said on that subject 2) sometimes I have a hard time not being insulted by this stuff too, but everyone wants to express their own beliefs, and that's something I remember too. As I said before, if you choose it as your faith, it's your choice, and everyone here is simply providing their opinions. So far, it doesn't look like the conversation has gotten too far out of control... right?
Ah, both a good and bad example of people in faith. It shows you that churches are the people who run them, and therefore are quite diverse.
Also, to Omna, I was thinking I would talk to you more about this when we expected to, but to be honest I'm more insulted by how your mom is treating your new hobbies than the talk about religion Seriously, you know that I could go on and on about what video games have done for me, and not only am I living proof of it, but I can also show her things that she would never expect that would maybe change her views on it. Seriously, I think I've gotten my mom to appreciate it at least enough now! The solution is Final Fantasy X music I'm dead serious too.
Wow, it's actually snowing here... It's been a while since I've seen it.
Former R&D Development Team W leader
For your information, it's pronounced Argh + was.
Proud Co-Founder of
Magic Coffeehouse!
Come in, sit down, relax, get to know somebody!
I'm off work now and am about to head over to Walmart to see whether my estranged father's christmas money has arrived. I still need to check back a few pages, but I'm happy to quit the discussion we were on, since it is ever so sensitive an area.
As for the Planar Chaos cards, I really like their idea of using a white font to indicate cards that are being reprinted into a different color. The blue Funeral Charm clone, Pirate Charm, for example, looks neat with the white font. I also find the prerelease card interesting, because it indicates an "enemy color" cycle of Invasion-esque dragons. My brother will be happy to get a dragon as the prerelease card.
First of all, I apologize for anything I said that may have offended you. It was not my intention at all to put you or Catholicism down. I've often been told my posts articulate what other people are thinking better than their own posts, but in this case the reverse was true. Pretty much everyone who has posted on the topic has communicated what I was thinking in a more balanced and respectful manner than I did. So, thank you folks.
That said, I would like to point out that it's rather unfair to open a topic for discussion and then be upset with people who discuss that topic. Though others had brought up the topic of Christianity via the possible new clan discussion, it was you who introduced Catholicism and exploring faith as a topic. I understand that one's choice of faith is an intensely personal matter, but you were the one who made that personal matter public. If you didn't want any input from anybody else on the subject, then it would have made more sense to not bring it up at all.
But you know what? This Coffeehouse is supposed to be about creating and fostering friendships, isn't it? Striving to keep a friendly and pleasant atmosphere is great, but real freindships are formed from the tough stuff in life. Real friends have fights, tell each other when they're being stupid, talk about the touchy subjects, etc., and they do it without being disrespectful. I don't see why it should be any different here, at least among the folks who come here regularly and have gotten to know each other pretty well. Though I don't really know you well, Danica, I have gotten to know you a lot better than the majority of my other online acquaintances and I honestly care about your well being. If I've not earned the right to discuss the touchier topics with you, then so be it. I'll faithfully do my part to keep the Coffeehouse controversy-free. I guess at some point, though, friendliness and fun at the cost of meaningful discussion just starts to feel superficial. Maybe it's just me.
Current New Favorite Person™: Mallory Archer
She knows why.
Thats a good point Kraj, although personally I'd prefer that if both sides want to continue a respectful arguement they do it in pm form. Simply because its more than likely not including the whole house and I'd rather not have the atmosphere changed by an arguement for too long.
@Arguas, bout my mom: I know!!! Its so frustrating.... I wish there was a way she could see what kinds of benefits I get from gaming... I DID try to show her Katamari Damacy, and she thought it was "cute cuz you don't kill things".... which only made me sigh in exasperation.. sometimes i honestly wish you were here to back me up on this thing! And I'm sure we'll talk more about that in a day or two.
As for me, I haven't had the chance to check out the Planar Chaos stuff (boy am i excited, tho!!!) .. and as we already have a carpool lined up, we will definitely be going to the Prerelease... I'm so jazzed... Crimson, any chance of you makin' it to this one? So i'll be checking out the PC stuff when I get back to Rochester most likely...
Also, now I need to go out to lunch with the females of my family (mom, grandma, aunt and older cousin) .... we're going to a nice sandwich spot with live music called "Avalon"... anyway.... Golf monopoly was fun last nihgt... then i think we're going to the mall... its a shame cuz an old friend will be dropping through on the way back into town, but I doubti will be here.. so i'll be picking up another copy of Wild ARMs 3 and stuff... anyway...
Have a good day all!
Magic Coffeehouse!
Come in, sit down, relax, get to know somebody!
Open Three and a Half Years as of October 19, 2009!
Banner by PurpleD and avatar/custom by Tanthalas
I probably will be gone for most of the afternoon but i will see you all soon though. Have a good weekend everyone! *blows kisses to everyone in the coffeehouse*
Love,
Cecilia
Thats kind of funny. Did you use a guide or anything? (Ugh guides <_<)
Yeah im only on the lakebed temple <_< The zora armor makes you look like a girl Lol.
Alot of the planeshifted cards havent impressed me so far. was hoping crovax would be better. Its a shame. Drop of honey in white would be absolutely insane. no doubt.
Nah, I didn't :D. I'll just tell you right now the Zora Armor makes you look like more of a ninja then youll ever be
And yay for Drop of Honey in white!
Winner of Weekly Contest 46!
As for other news, I'm still loving DQ8 and enjoying the snow outside. Yes, it snowed again. In fact, its still snowing right now! Last I heard, it was a total of 14 inches so far. I'll see if I can get a picture or two on here later on.
Windmills do not work that way!
I guess it depends on the delivery is all. You raise a strong point here, but I think what Omna is trying to say is that we don't want to discourage people from coming due to heated internal disputes. From what I understand, debate and discussion and forming friendships is fine, but I just think that Omna and I are a little concerned about things becoming more than that.
Your point is perfectly valid though
Drop of Honey in White??? SIGN ME UP!
Former R&D Development Team W leader
For your information, it's pronounced Argh + was.
Proud Co-Founder of
Magic Coffeehouse!
Come in, sit down, relax, get to know somebody!
*sputter*
No snow all year in MN or the East Coast but you guys are getting a nice snowpack up in them deserts
I just spent 4 hours dying slowly to some kid playing the Dutch in AOE III. He's a Major... gathered half a million in resources before mopping us up - 3 vs. 1
What's left in Core:
9 blue uncommons
9 blue rares
9 black uncommons
3 black rares
7 red rares
4 green commons
5 green uncommons
5 green rares
9 common artifacts
I will post what's in Core so far if anyone wants to know.
Like freeform roleplaying? Try Darkness Befalls Us
Ryttare Kelasin Luna Orelinalei
Catholic and Protestant are both subtypes of Christian. Distinguishing someone is not a "fairly religious Christian" but a "fairly religious Catholic" is only adding nuance. There only difference between being Christian and being Catholic is one of detail.
This is a vicious comment because you implicate that there is some tendency among homosexual people to try and "convert" others. There's no need to imply that, especially since it's not accurate, so you only demonstrate your bias.
Paul told a tale of people who were inflamed by overwhelming lust, including homosexual lust, as as a kind of symptom of defiance against God. The application of this anecdote to homosexuals in general I have already discussed.
However, Catholic moral belief isn't wholly based on Biblical anecdotes. As I've already explained, it's coherent with their moral paradigm as a whole (with a few exceptions). Their paradigm isn't Biblically necessary, not really, but it does entail certain ideas about sex and reproduction, all of which implicate comdemnation of non-heterosexual sex.
The way to avoid offending people when discussing controversies is to remain sensitive and calm and express things in a clear, neutrally-toned way.
It's really not fair to speak your piece on the matter and say "let's not talk about this anymore, I might be offended." It's probably safe to say that nearly everyone here has already been offended. Negative comments made so far regarding Christians have been extremely mild compared to negative comments made about homosexuals. People don't really like others disagreeing with them, especially since most tend to phrase their disagreements as statements of fact rather than statements of feeling.
Not really. I won't go into the full exposition that I've constructed before in Debate, but the possibility of sexual inclinations being a matter of conscious decision is miserable. Even if being non-heterosexuality isn't inborn, it's most probably at least a learned behavior.
I've often found this, too. Many Protestant groups seem extremely concerned with their religious liberty, and less so with humanitarian effort and behavior. However, I've known several Baptist Churches who put a lot of time, money, and sweat into helping the poor, uneducated, and unhealthy, so it's not really a rule about Protestantism. Most Protestant Churches are far less organized than the Catholic Church, which makes a difference.
Protest groups have a huge amount of variation, so it gets confusing.
Thank you. What can I say, I get into stuff.
Unfortunately, I doubt many people even read it. Oh, well.
I concur. *nod, nod*
This is a good point. I think the best way to cope with controversy that does come up is to be very aware that it is a controversy, and do your best to remain open-minded and receptive.
We have a mission?
All that I yearn for, for richer or poorer, is to be the peace that you feel.
All that I yearn for, for richer or poorer, is to fill your heart on my own.
Gaymers | Magic Coffeehouse | Little Jar of Mamelon | Natural 20
Anyway, yeah, so anyone who would like to be a friend to my clan or help me get it off the ground, please pm me. I would really like help in coming up with a wicked name, and a cool banner idea. Just let me know.
And while I was at work, I decided what I am going to play in the current standard environment. And that deck is ( drum roll please)........."This Girl!" Thanks to the helpful suggestion of another person here ( and you know who you are), I am going to play the deck Flores played. It looks good ( would probably look tons better completely foil, dont you think?), and from what I have heard from various people, it is extremely viable. Why not? I will give it a try.
my trade thread:http://forums.mtgsalvation.com/showthread.php?t=327326
I want to thank R&Doom for my signature. Thanks a lot!
Viscious? Viscious is bringing up a rather popular stereotype into the conversation. I'm not saying he's right. That's what its a stereotype and not a fact after all... it isn't necessarily right.
The truth is some do in fact try to do this - either out of a joking nature taken all wrong or because they seriously try to do this. I'm not kidding. It's a stereotype for a reason people. The majority are jokes taken wrong and this is the problem. People need to lighten up - seriously.
I couldn't agree more with above statement.
I hardly read any of it. Sorry. I'd say i'd go back and read it all but that'd be a lie. I just can't sit down and read anything that long without being distracted or something of that nature. Partial laziness too... There - at least I admitted it. It's really a shame tho that some people are like that but its the way we are in this hectic world and frankly I've come to accept it.
I doubt anyone will read this too tho the way its shaping....
I believe it's to bring together people of differing backgrounds and talk about things we have in common. Or better yet to foster talk about any topic - civilly.
Religion: Yes I'm gonna give my views on this finally. I figure I owe at least that much after the topic passed on for so long.
Frankly, I think it all started as a way to teach the masses tons of lessons in a way they would understand and to have a belief system that discouraged "bad behavior." To keep this short I'll use homosexuality as an example and hopefully not offend anyone.
Let's face it - if the entire population of the world was only homosexual some feeling would definitely be lost in the reproductive cycle of humanity. Possibly a very bad world ending scenario if you weren't all that educated at the time. Which not many were (at least compared to people of today). So to make sure this didn't happen the writer of the bible (or the actual people in the story depending on whether it was exaggerated) made homosexuality activity a sin. And bam - a fable/story is born.
Does this mean that I don't believe in a God? Nope! I just think it's a little odd how the bible (and other such religious books) happen to have so many life lessons that seem to be very perfect in teaching said lessons.
Does this make me crazy? Possibly but I'll leave that up to you to decide.
Flame away!