by Jared Harvey

Created on: February 16, 2009   Last Updated: April 01, 2009

There are generally two things in this world that I don't like: Religion and Extremists. Actually let me narrow that down: Christians and Extremists. Now, I'm not trying to harass or attack anyone out there, however a lot of christians and extremists do. I'm expecting to see a lot of flame coming from this just because I don't believe in the same things as these people.

I am all for people believing in what they think is holy and good. That is awesome! You are trying to better yourself according to your beliefs. However some people take it too far and start trying to convert others. I don't try to convert you to becoming an Atheist, so why would you try and convert me into a Christian? Please don't tell me that I am a bad person and you are trying to "save" me. If I needed saving I would call ghostbusters. Furthermore, this trend of misusing religion is evident in politics and business. By business, I refer to churches. If someone wants to practice their religion, do they need a hi-tech recreation center to do so? There is a local church around here that has PS3's X-Box's, 55'' Flat Screens... it's ridiculous. I'm pretty sure all you need to worship is a bible and some good faith. What some of these corrupt churches are trying to do is lure kids in and make them future donors to the "cause". Shouldn't a kid just go to church because he believes? As far as politics goes, you ever hear how many times politicians will say "god bless america", "god as my witness", etc.? They are using the word "god" as a marketing scheme. As soon as they say that, all the religious people are on board.

I guess im just trying to point out how commercial religion has become. It should just be faith that makes you want to go to church, not the latest gaming system. Religion is ideally a great thing; it supports being a good person and generally having a kind outlook on life. However, realistically, it is one of the biggest scams this world has ever known. People abuse their influence over others to profit themselves with whatever it is they are after. Whether it is money, or a small boys butthole. Stop turning something that should be wonderful into a tool to scam people!

Oh, and extremists... I don't understand. People are not evil or stupid because they don't have the same ideologic beliefs as you. If people want to practice religion, that's their choice. If someone wants to be atheist, let them be. If someone doesn't choose the same presidential candidate as you, it doesn't mean their ignorant or vile, it just means they might have other priorities. If someone likes rap, and you hate it, it doesn't mean they are gang-bangers and drug pushers, they just like rap. If someone likes metal, it doesn't mean they are redneck white people looking to get in a fight. C'mon people!

You'd be amazed how much more pleasant the world would be if people would just learn to accept that they aren't the all-knowing. Just have an open mind! You might enjoy the diverse experiences you have with your fellow people.

...Just a thought.

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