In Reply to: Re: Further discussion with Porcelain Doll and Ray from below posted by George on July 06, 2003 at 10:57:22:
Yes, this board certainly was specifically created for Christian discussion and I don't think it was so much the content of what Occam said so much as the presentation style, which came across as condescending. Content-wise it was merely a discussion on the merits of Buddhism compared to Christianity, but the tone came across in an offensive way. Occam, you said:
"I hear you saying that you don’t want to be a cheerleader for any philosophy that may not fit your listener’s lifestyle. So how can you endorse Buddhism?"
I think what you're saying here, Occam, is, "If you don't want to cheerlead any philosophy, how can you cheerlead for Buddhism?" Not a deep argument, but I see what you were trying to say at least. But it comes across sound like "How CAN you endorse Buddhism?" which really rankles. do you see what I mean?
And where it sounds condescending is the next sentence:
"If I may suggest a test for you to convince yourself that God is a loving and omnipotent being. Take a long breath and let it out slowly. When you feel like inhaling again sense the confidence you feel knowing that when you do the air will be there for you to continue your life."
Occam, it sounds like you are talking to a small child, or to someone who is very simple-minded, which Porcelein Doll surely is not. I've had lots of discussions with her on spiritual issues and find her highly intelligent. No one needs to be talked down to.
I guess the main thing is, for decades we have had religion (specifically a perverted, authoritarian form of Christianity) force-fed to us. We have been commanded to obey authoritarian rules. We have been told to simply open our mouths and swallow without doubting. We have been told "to do so because Daddy says so." But we are no longer children, we are grown up now with children of our own. And for the most part, we have rejected the authoritarian "believe this" religion of the Family.
This board was specifically created for the discussion of Christian values and faith, and other spiritual issues, but I think "Mad's" reaction shows that we have to be sensitive to the journey others are on. We all deserve respect.
Maybe you meant no offense, Occam, but do you see what I'm saying?