This is why I don't like debating religion

[Marucha]

GameOver22 said:

Marucha said:

Anyway..I don't think everyone has to be attached to a religion or whatever to be spiritual and not everyone who is human has to be spiritual. There is so much more to life than just what religion you follow. I think it adds to the whole perspective and experience... but it's absolutely not necessary to be any of those things in order to have a fulfilling life or be a good person.

Nice post! I've always found religious/spiritual experiences to be fascinating. I always find it hard to not be moved when I read about them, especially when personal beliefs help people find happiness (or whatever you wish to call it). Personally, I've always felt these types of personal beliefs are the most powerful.

The part of your post I quoted reminded me of a quote from William James Varieties of Religious Experience. He's quoting an atheist or agnostic (can't remember) that feels perfectly content with his life while not believing in God. James' argument is that reliigous belief isn't for everyone, but those people who find solace in personal belief are justified in those beliefs.....I always liked William James.

Thanks :) I don't know how to edit my posts or it's hard for me to word my thoughts simply, so I don't post often and I try to narrow my topics.

I've had the types of experiences that it's no wonder I am the way I am today. One can argue what is 'meant'. Sometimes I like to think of it as the answer is an entire film with the whole picture and I may get a clip of it that helps me when and where I need it, but somebody else gets a different clip...maybe the most like law of attraction if you have heard of it. There are some things that shake you to the core that you don't help but at least keep your mind open. They change how you view life entirely, are only positive experiences, and make you more compassionate... perhaps because you learn from that moment that your reality is not the only one out there. There is an entire world out there. Of course some people wonder why God leaves them alone and doesn't interact with them at all... I just think there is always a lot more going on than what meets the eye, and you can't help but say that about anything and everything these days.

What you interpretted about my quote is basically what I was saying. Peace is really hard to find for a lot of people, especially the type that results in happiness. I don't know which is harder to find. You can be happy with your life and still not be at peace. It's hard. I can't begrudge anyone that finds both, but I can see religious folk maybe using the argument that 'perhaps' that person doesn't realize they are actually 'missing' something... which I think is arrogant.