My parents always told me...

If you want to keep your friends, Don't discuss politics or Religion with them. So as a general rule, I don't. But guess what everyone! Today- I'm going there!! This post shouldn't offend anyone. It's certainly not meant too.. It's just my beliefs.. I don't care what anyone else believes. Weather you be Christian, Muslim, Jew, or anything else on the spectrum of beliefs. If you are happy and not hurting anyone, Then you do you! I'm okay with that. I love you! I accept you! I appreciate you! You don't have to agree with me, or share my beliefs to be my friend. If your a good person and treat others with kindness- I think the world of you.

SO! Here we go!

I grew up in the Episcopal church. That's where I was baptized, that's where I did Sunday school (Every Sunday, oh yea!) etc. etc. You get the idea. My parents weren't extreme in Religion.. But they wanted us to have a backround in God and believe in Him. I do so appreciate that as I Feel we all do need to start somewhere with our relationship with God.

When I met my husband, who is Muslim, I explored that religion (Which, when practiced in it's true form is truly a beautiful lovely religion of peace) I have many dear friends in addition to my husband who are Muslims, and are all wonderful, loving people!

My problem with all major Religions was the dogma. The hellfire and dammnation for every small thing you may do! It was overwhelming, and scary (esp as a small child) And even now, I just have a hard time with that. Don't all holy books, all prophets, Jesus, etc. Speak of a LOVING, FORGIVING, MERCIFUL God??? Then how could this be the same God who is ready to damm you to hell for the smallest of infractions ... (We are after all human, I know I am no where near perfect and would never claim to be)

I started researching Gnostic beliefs and studying all religions in general. And I take from them my truths. That God IS there. That he is all loving, all knowing, merciful. That He can forgive where we can't imagine forgiveness, because we are human. And how could we ever? That we are his creations, and He loves us.

I'm not saying there isn't a place for the truly horrible people among us, but I do believe that even bad actions , bad things, have a purpose in this life, that maybe we just don't fully understand yet. I certainly don't have all of the answers. The fact of the matter is- None of us do. But I'm always searching for truth. And I just don't believe that a person is going to hell because they picked the wrong Religion to be a part of - No matter what that may be. Who are we to judge someone's choice? Who are we to tell someone they way they love God is wrong???

It's just mainstream Religions.. I don't know. I've seen people from every major religion kill in the name of God.. How can that be??? EVERY major Religion has done this. EVERY one. What gives any human the right to murder another, And in the name of our GOD no less. The One who created us, and loves us unconditionally. No matter what anyone says. I disagree there. We are all equal in God's eyes in my opinion. No one should take another's life.. The dogma of religion (The major ones anyways) is waht stops me from completely defining myself.

Do I celebrate Christmas, and Easter, and the like? Yes. You bet I do. That's what my traditions were growing up, and they are some of my happiest memories. I will always celebrate those wonderful days with my family. And my husband, who is Muslim, I also celebrate his holidays. Why wouldn't I? They are important to him, and therefore important to me. And I think any holiday that celebrates God and all his glory is truly wonderful.

So do not judge me for my beliefs. I won't judge you for yours. If we all have this attitude maybe we'd all get along a lot better in this world. And.. If you still really want to judge me.. that's okay. I know where I stand with God. I know He loves me. And I know He loves you too!!!

And if you don't believe in God, I love you anyways. That is your right and I don't judge anyone. Because like I said at the start- If your beliefs are not hurting anyone.. Then WHO CARES?! Certainly. Not. I!