Could you explain why you don't feel you fit in the Religion category? I believe it was intended to include all faiths, including what you listed. Is it the word 'religion' itself that is problematic (as in, those faiths are not 'organized religion')?
I ask because I would genuinely like to understand. My faith was slammed in a recent thread, and the faith of people dear to me was slammed in another. I wouldn't intentionally do that to someone else - I want to make sure I don't do it unintentionally, either.
I understand the all-inclusive intention behind the "Religion" forum, and I am all for it, but it doesn't work in our society and I don't think it's going to work here. A thought did cross my mind about asking to simply rename the category as "Religion and Spirituality", but I have my doubts that the new name would do much :dunno:
It seems to me that the preconceived notion of most entering this forum, is that it is a Christian forum. There is no room for anybody else (I doubt people bother to read the rules about it being all-inclusive, or they wouldn't start certain threads).
I know that not everyone on this forum is a Christian and/or a radical. And I feel that we can have some very interesting discussions if, and that's a big IF, there is enough tolerance and patience from all involved.
I guess I am attempting to combine prepping with spirituality (not religion, I think we both have an understanding that they are not the one and the same). I've seen prepping/surviving forums and I've seen spiritual forums, but I've never seen one combining both. So this is my little to attempt to try and create a small niche for it
I believe that spiritual preparedness is just as important as physical/material.
I, personally, would love to hear about other people's faiths, but in a civil manner, not in your face dogma.
I would like to discuss traditional and non-traditional religions, philosophies and beliefs. I would like to talk about magic and people's spiritual experiences. I feel that there is so much we can learn from each other if only we keep an open mind, but unfortunately, I do not feel that such project will survive inside the "Religion" category.
I do not like to see topics like "religion1 vs religion2" where people's faith is being slammed. I am bothered by growing intolerance and xenophobia in modern society. I strongly believe that this is the time to be united, but I cannot make deaf hear. Therefore, I prefer not to waste my time in fruitless uphills battles with people who can teach me nothing. I'd much rather prefer a civilized discussion with people I can learn from (no matter what their faith is or isn't).
I strongly believe in personal choices and free will and would not slam anybody's beliefs intentionally. If I did, it was unintentional, and I apologize. I hope it wasn't me "slamming" your faith :surrender:
So to conclude, what I am hoping for here are two categories:
1 - remains "Religion" and is not bothered by "weirdos"
like moi,
2 - "Spirituality" where all are welcomed, regardless of their faith or lack thereof
, but no slamming of any kind will be tolerated, and human unity will be strongly promoted. I am hoping that curiosity of some will lead them to spiritual revelations
Love, Light and Harmony to all.
