Religion on the forum? Your thoughts?

[skypup]

I just checked and there is no reference to religion in the code of conduct. I find others' talk of their own religious beliefs appropriate in their threads or when responding in kind on another's thread. I find it inappropriate when not invited.

Here is what got me thinking about this, posted on a thread with no religious content before this:
"Always remember that the battle is not ours, it's God's!!!"

That just crosses a line for me. It's directive about how to think. It's assumptive about what is true.

It is, I know, meant well. But...

Your thoughts?

[momof3]

I think it should be taken in the manner it is used. Most likely in a supportive "I'm praying for you" way. I'm sure some take offense to the swearing used by members.

my feeling is as long as someone isn't purposely trying to offend others, it's okay.

[sjring]

As long as someone isn't trying to push a particular theological belief, or coming across as "holier than thou" I don't personally have a problem.

Just be sensitive that your religious beliefs may not be the same as those who you are responding to.

[sadysue]

I think one of the great things about this forum is the honesty and openess it offers everyone. You can say just about anything without people taking offense. Talk about poop, sex, drugs, family, food, pets, jobs, social security, doctors, education, you name it! Religion is just another part of life's make up - just don't try to sell me anything because it may not necessarily be part of mine! LOL But I understand it is important to many people. I think we are all smart enough to know when to draw the line. Love this group.

[jjinmd]

I think it should be taken in the manner it is used. Most likely in a supportive "I'm praying for you" way. I'm sure some take offense to the swearing used by members.

my feeling is as long as someone isn't purposely trying to offend others, it's okay.

I think this is a good approach. These online forums where you have "one thing" in common with all the other members are often tricky because it is easy to forget how completely different the rest of our lives might be. I have been a member of a parenting forum for 8 years, and it has a blow up with lots of hurt feelings at least once a year...almost always driven by 1) political differences, 2) religious differences, or 3) socio-economic differences and how they get expressed. A dose of tolerance and benefit of the doubt for our differences goes a long way, I think, as long as the respect is mutual.

[skypup]

edited original post to be more clear...

[BrownBagger]

People are free to express their emotions, beliefs and ideas on the board any way they like, as long as they don't harass others or say things that are patently offensive or untrue. Over the years we have had threads devoted (if you will) to religion and faith, and I think everyone respected the right of those so inclined to discuss and share their beliefs.

All that said, religion--like politics--can inspire some truly ugly exchanges. Personally, I'm not here to talk about either one, so I try to avoid confrontation. Everyone should.

[KWT]

Funny you should bring that up Theresa, this where I usually get into trouble here, I could go on and on but it wouldn't make a difference. I often feel like when someone uses the the phrase" praise be to God" after a good scan or something similar it's kind of like "God likes me the mostess" what about all of the unanswered prayers? Why is God so discriminatory? And why are you so afraid of dyeing if this wonderful Disneyland in the sky is what's waiting for you and your family? I'd be on the first trip up if I believed. I've come to take " I'm praying for you" as just a good will gesture" it's better than; "better you than me" Id like to think I'm the kind of guy who would run into a burning building to help out a stranger and my moral compass is intact. So I'm good without God. If he did exist Im very unimpressed with the way things are turning out.

[BrownBagger]

If he did exist Im very unimpressed with the way things are turning out.

Kind of like you, Kenny, the dude works in strange ways. Always has.

Seriously, I'd lighten up. I don't feel anyone is judging us atheist, liberal types.

[KWT]

If he did exist Im very unimpressed with the way things are turning out.

Kind of like you, Kenny, the dude works in strange ways. Always has.

Seriously, I'd lighten up. I don't feel anyone is judging us atheist, liberal types.

I'm pretty sure that us freethinkers are definitely judged. I wish the best for everyone here irregardless of their political or religious views. If you put enough rats in a box there's going to be a little conflict. On that note I'm going to go light up!

[skypup]

I'm in favor of all types of people supporting each other -- have all the religious threads you want! Truly! Just don't pass it around uninvited and perhaps unwelcome. The weird thing, perhaps, is that I'm actually spiritual (can't say religious so much), but please don't tell me who to believe In or vote for. Ha!

BB, lighten up I will. Kenny, light up I will later. Right now I'm about to get stuck for the juice. Ugh

[canadiandaughter]

My thoughts are that as long as it isn't being shoved down your throat it's ok. If someone said you need to go to church or pray more, that crosses the line. It's the same with everything, in moderation is ok.

[elise]

when someone uses the the phrase" praise be to God" after a good scan or something similar it's kind of like "God likes me the mostess" what about all of the unanswered prayers? ... If he did exist Im very unimpressed with the way things are turning out.

OMG Kenny, you and I are on the same page!! I'm not sure how to fully explain my feelings about religion on this forum. For one, I think we're all in a crappy boat and if what keeps you afloat is your belief in a higher being, that's none of my business. I do feel like it's a slap in the face when God is praised for clean scans etc because I think good news comes because treatment worked, surgery was done, or just because we sometimes just hit good luck. Our bodies react in just the right way. But that's just me. I'm ok with just walking away from a conversation that includes God.

Now can we officially reinstate swearing?? I miss it.

[Carolinabluetec]

I choose to believe in a higher power and an afterlife. After all what harm can it do? If the aforementioned does not exist, it just means that I was wrong. I have no problem if someone wants to express Christian, Buddhist, Atheist, Taoist, Muslim, Mormon, Scientology or whatever beliefs. Just don't try to convert me or chop my head off.

[Voxx66]

It generally doesn't bother me. I have my own beliefs and they would make little sense to most anyone else. I try to cut bitter atheists slack just as I cut devout religious types slack. Unless someone makes the mistake of directly challenging me. Then I feel like permission has been given to let loose ha.