Stephen Crabbe did not present a logical analysis. He did not try to impose his view on others. He simply and beautifully told the way he felt and gave me the idea of the process which led to his connection with the Anglican church.

Although I don't have the same feelings I appreciate his feelings and his expression of those feelings. I hope he writes more.

Bearing such personal information publicly takes REAL courage. Well done.

But I like to think that if I was tempted to publicise my own irrational beliefs -- yes, I have them, like everyone else -- some kind friend would tell me that it wasn't a terribly good idea. It's not a moral issue, it's just a charitable urge to prevent people making themselves look foolish.

Q: Why Jon J do you feel the article was based upon irrational beliefs? Also, why the term 'foolish'? Why feel embarrassed for a person who writes an article based upon his/her own experiences, thoughts and beliefs?

Wonderful writing, your articles are fabulous.
I hope you have much more for us on OLO!

Beautifully written, Stephen ... a nice story.

But hey, we're back in the REAL world now, where false religion dogma is still being forced into young minds, as it was in yours, it seems.

You say "the music, symbols and language took hold of me". Well, I see the effects of early brainwashing. You don't mention the savagery and contradictions found in the bible.

I, too, have been told a few times by well-meaning believers that "I would make a great Christian". I tell them that they would make great atheists. That's the difference.

I can understand how some can let go of their rationality and be seduced by the "loving" fellowship of believers, but honestly Stephen, have you seen how these same believers carry on when you're NOT one of their own flock? It's not pretty!

Non-believers have no reason to harbour hatred against other human beings like that. Only self-righteous believers do that.

Talking about what we call god, is a bit like saying that trees are not alive, and we cannot see the trees for the forest. All living things are so unique in that they exist by the magic of nature, I doubt that man could manufacture any of these, and I doubt that nature can be described by any other than the work of god, remembering that the name "God" was derived and accepted by man. When you start confusing the houses of religion, you would be better off by first reading through the portion of the bible "The Gospel according to St Matthew", Chapter 23. I believe it condemns most of these "churches" which seem to being intent on aiming to instill in you that "They" are the chosen ones, and you should take notice and obey them.