This is probably a rambling, but it is interesting to me at least, all comments and thoughts are welcomed.
When I think of religion, lots of different thoughts go through my mind, respect being one for it is essential (to me anyway)
that religon is respected. We have all seen the results of groups or individuals disrespecting others religous beliefs,
therfore it is a rather hot topic and deserving of respect.
To some religion brings comfort, hope, desire, belief, reassurance and probably many more I cannot think of as it can
be a very indivdual experience and for others perhaps disapointment, anguish, pain and again many more emotions
and feelings that I cannot characterize, not easily in any event.
Throughout history and indeed in todays modern world, social acceptance, governing laws and indeed morality are all
parts of both society and religion and I suggest that religion has played and still does a large part in this makeup
of our world.
There are things I really do not like about religion, influences that have been bolted into leaders minds and influence
their decisions and how they deal and view with minority groups or groups they simply do not care for because religion
has taught them these groups behaviours are immoral and not to be encouraged but rather the reverse.
Yet part of me is glad we have religion as without it would we ever have morality? Morality is after all
a man made concept is it not? Religious leaders have created moral frameworks throught our
lifes and our ancesters with the goal of establishing a way of life that keeps us out of despair and
anarchy. Without morality what type of species would man kind have evolved into? it is is certain
that the moral concept had to be created and thus someone had to do it and religion has certainly
been one of the main influencers in this respect.