~Right over righteous~

~I recently began reading quite a few of articles and posts from Anne Rice, largely due to the fact that I came across her Facebook page. I find her very fascinating, and extremely intelligent. She writes on so many subjects, and in this day of "celebrity worship", I find her articles refreshing, and much more interesting than "Penelope Cruz has on same dress as Miley Cyrus! Who wore it better?" Ugh....

This article this morning caught my eye. This was from the NY Times.com.

Tussling Over Jesus

By NICHOLAS D. KRISTOF

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The National Catholic Reporter newspaper put it best: “Just days before Christians celebrated Christmas, Jesus got evicted.”

Yet the person giving Jesus the heave-ho in this case was not a Bethlehem innkeeper. Nor was it an overzealous mayor angering conservatives by pulling down Christmas decorations. Rather, it was a prominent bishop, Thomas Olmsted, stripping St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center in Phoenix of its affiliation with the Roman Catholic diocese.
The hospital’s offense? It had terminated a pregnancy to save the life of the mother. The hospital says the 27-year-old woman, a mother of four children, would almost certainly have died otherwise.
Bishop Olmsted initially excommunicated a nun, Sister Margaret McBride, who had been on the hospital’s ethics committee and had approved of the decision. That seems to have been a failed attempt to bully the hospital into submission, but it refused to cave and continues to employ Sister Margaret. Now the bishop, in effect, is excommunicating the entire hospital — all because it saved a woman’s life.
Make no mistake: This clash of values is a bellwether of a profound disagreement that is playing out at many Catholic hospitals around the country. These hospitals are part of the backbone of American health care, amounting to 15 percent of hospital beds.
Already in Bend, Ore., last year, a bishop ended the church’s official relationship with St. Charles Medical Center for making tubal ligation sterilizations available to women who requested them. And two Catholic hospitals in Texas halted tubal ligations at the insistence of the local bishop in Tyler.
The National Women’s Law Center has just issued a report quoting doctors at Catholic-affiliated hospitals as saying that sometimes they are forced by church doctrine to provide substandard care to women with miscarriages or ectopic pregnancies in ways that can leave the women infertile or even endanger their lives. More clashes are likely as the church hierarchy grows more conservative, and as hospitals and laity grow more impatient with bishops who seem increasingly out of touch.
Catholic hospitals like St. Joseph’s that are evicted by the church continue to operate largely as before. The main consequence is that Mass can no longer be said in the hospital chapel. Thomas C. Fox, the editor of National Catholic Reporter, noted regretfully that a hospital with deep Catholic roots like St. Joseph’s now cannot celebrate Mass, while airport chapels can. Mr. Fox added: “Olmsted’s moral certitude is lifeless, leaving no place for compassionate Christianity.”
To me, this battle illuminates two rival religious approaches, within the Catholic church and any spiritual tradition. One approach focuses upon dogma, sanctity, rules and the punishment of sinners. The other exalts compassion for the needy and mercy for sinners — and, perhaps, above all, inclusiveness.
The thought that keeps nagging at me is this: If you look at Bishop Olmsted and Sister Margaret as the protagonists in this battle, one of them truly seems to me to have emulated the life of Jesus. And it’s not the bishop, who has spent much of his adult life as a Vatican bureaucrat climbing the career ladder. It’s Sister Margaret, who like so many nuns has toiled for decades on behalf of the neediest and sickest among us.
Then along comes Bishop Olmsted to excommunicate the Christ-like figure in our story. If Jesus were around today, he might sue the bishop for defamation.
Yet in this battle, it’s fascinating how much support St. Joseph’s Hospital has had and how firmly it has pushed back — in effect, pounding 95 theses on the bishop’s door. The hospital backed up Sister Margaret, and it rejected the bishop’s demand that it never again terminate a pregnancy to save the life of a mother.
“St. Joseph’s will continue through our words and deeds to carry out the healing ministry of Jesus,” said Linda Hunt, the hospital president. “Our operations, policies, and procedures will not change.” The Catholic Health Association of the United States, a network of Catholic hospitals around the country, stood squarely behind St. Joseph’s.
Anne Rice, the author and a commentator on Catholicism, sees a potential turning point. “St. Joseph’s refusal to knuckle under to the bishop is huge,” she told me, adding: “Maybe rank-and-file Catholics are finally talking back to a hierarchy that long ago deserted them.”
With the Vatican seemingly as deaf and remote as it was in 1517, some Catholics at the grass roots are pushing to recover their faith. Jamie L. Manson, the same columnist for National Catholic Reporter who proclaimed that Jesus had been “evicted,” also argued powerfully that many ordinary Catholics have reached a breaking point and that St. Joseph’s heralds a new vision of Catholicism: “Though they will be denied the opportunity to celebrate the Eucharist, the Eucharist will rise out of St. Joseph’s every time the sick are healed, the frightened are comforted, the lonely are visited, the weak are fed, and vigil is kept over the dying.”
Hallelujah.


Sigh....
Okay. So, where to begin? This is what is truly wrong with religion, all religions. They are controlled and run by men. Men who become hungry for power. It is the control of other people that eventually takes over their good judgment. It is no longer about "faith" or God, it is about the power over people.

Men have faults. Men make mistakes. At their core, they will do it time and time again. This is why we are meant to learn, and to educate ourselves. To try to learn from these mistakes, and to better ourselves. Some just don't want to do this. I always found it baffling that the Ten Commandments had such rules as "Honor thy Mother and Father" but no "Mother and Father, don't beat your children" or "Parents don't molest your children" or "Thou shall not rape" or maybe "Honor your spouse, don't punch them in the face". Okay, so I don't use such eloquent words, but you know what I mean. Why is it that any of those is not listed but don't you dare think about wanting that SUV that your neighbor is driving? (That's the whole "covet" thing, that I'm pretty sure every single human being commits on a daily basis, no matter how "holy" they "think" they are). It's just ridiculous. The reason? Because MEN wrote them. Men wrote them at a time when it was necessary to come up with decent and needed moral codes and laws to have for society at a time in history when those things seemed pretty important. Human beings had not evolved enough to know that maybe they should think this through...and these tablets would be taken so literally, so maybe some more thought should be put into their content.

This entire issue of abortion always causes people to get their panties in a wad. My thoughts on it won't make any difference to anyone. The one last issue would always come down to "what if that was your wife?" What if that was your daughter in that situation? Cause I guarantee in that moment, when a doctor is telling you that a choice now needs to be made, your daughters life, or an abortion, your thoughts, your emotions, everything changes. You can't help it. If it was your wife. Would you be willing to sit there and sign a paper, and have your wife die? The truth is, in those moments, no one knows. It is not right for another human being to come in and tell someone that they are not allowed to make that decision for themselves. It's not THEIR life that will be directly affected forever by that decision. Who exactly is your minister at that moment? Who exactly is your Priest? In all honesty, just another guy...just another human being. Because in the end, it is you. If you believe in God, then it's between you and your God. It's not up to anyone to make that kind of decision to tell you that a life must perish over what THEY believe. Then to turn around, to act like a common bully and to kick everyone out of the church for supporting the hospital for saving a life? Really? For doing exactly what a hospital is supposed to do? Again, simply baffling.

Religion really must die for the human race to continue. It is no longer about faith. It is no longer about God. It is corrupt. It is immoral. It is now simply about power, and control. Most who are very deep in their churches can't see that, and those are the ones who I am afraid for. You have lost the ability to live your own life. I am not saying don't believe in God, which is usually the first defensive attack. The screaming begins, and they are so, so angry. Another reaction that baffles me. I am simply saying, you don't need four walls, and a man standing before you to believe whatever it is you believe. Think for yourself. God doesn't need your money. God doesn't need anything from you. All that has ever been expected of people, in my belief, is for them to show that they have the ability to think for themselves. To live, to breathe, and to continue to evolve and be better.  God wouldn't kick out a dying woman, lying in a hospital bed, from his church, would he? God wouldn't kick out all the members of a hospital, who cares for the poor and the sick. Are these really the actions of the holy?

If you really want to be closer to the God that you believe in, stop following the word of men. If you really want to be closer to the God that you believe in, stop listening to men, they are not him. Men, are not God. They are just men.

~Outside of the Herd~

How f***ing sacred is this person who's never contributed one thing to anyone's life but her own? And not even thinking about her politically or whatever she represents, it's just that she's just a coarse, selfish person who has ferocious protection and it makes no sense to me... By the way, I said something that I think is true, I wrote one Twitter that I said, please find me a picture of Sarah Palin with more than one black person because I couldn't find one. And then she went to Haiti a week later. She threw together a trip to Haiti. So I believe I made that happen. So that's positive.

Louis CK, Talking about Sarah Palin.

Amazing how some people in the media are so protected and full of themselves that they not only believe their own crap, but have otherwise rational people believing it as well. It really bothers me that my brother and sister in law really like Sarah Palin. Terrifies me actually. That woman is dangerous. It just goes to show you how everyone really has lost their damn minds.

I am not quite sure when it happened, but somewhere along the way, it suddenly became "politically incorrect" to think for yourself. Maybe it was during those selfish indulgent 80's when everyone became so obsessed with BMW's and shoes, and all the girls became label whores. You just weren't good enough if you didn't drool over the right clothes, or the right make up. Um, what? I find that really hysterical. I never gave a shit about any of that. I still don't. It all started to happen though. People started becoming sheep. Now look at them. Can't even open their mouths without worrying about offending this person, or that person. Can you say you don't like this...oh, don't. You might not fit in. Can you say you don't believe that? Oh, whatever you do, don't do that! You might be suddenly cut off and outcast. No longer is it held in high regard to be an individual. Now, you MUST think as "they" do. You MUST believe as others do. You MUST go along with the pressure of others wishes, or face the rath.

Fuck that....

This is why I like Louis CK. See, he knows that coming out and saying these things against Sarah Palin get him into trouble. He has even faced many threats from people with power. Pathetic. Apparently, free speech is only allowed if you follow guidelines. The narrow minded and self righteous masses that feel the need to
"save" us from our doom seem to forget that we have every right to our own damn opinions and feelings. Louis CK has every right to say Sarah Palin is full of shit. She is. People are always afraid of opinions that don't go along with theirs. It's right back to the school yard. Good old fashioned peer pressure. They will label you a loud mouth, or obnoxious, or opinionated, (I happen to take that one as a compliment), or any other term they may deem insulting to try to get you to stop. Well, don't.

How boring would the world be if it was all gray? The more eclectic, the more fascinating and exciting it becomes. The more we have to learn, explore, and enjoy. I don't want to be around people who all think alike. I enjoy listening to Louis CK and his opinions. I enjoy listening to lots of people and their opinions. I try to learn from everyone I know. I don't want to live in a bubble. I want to get a very open and honest education of what our world really has to offer. Our little country, and the population it contains, is just one small part. it is by far, NOT the greatest, or the most superior on this planet, and how arrogant of any man to say so. I prefer to be humble, and explore other countries and cultures, religions, beliefs, customs, histories, all that is out there. If that makes me obnoxious, opinionated, and a loud mouth, so be it.

Meanwhile, Sarah Palin still won't have more than 2 pictures of herself with a black person, and Louis CK will have something she never had. Great ratings for a TV show.

~Jerry Springer, Live~

When you have mild insomnia, any sleep, even if it's 30 minutes, can seem like heaven. Your so amazed that you even got that much, that when you wake up, your almost in shock that you actually feel alseep in the first place. It also tends to infuriate you instantly when this precious sleep is disturbed. Allow me to share my recent experience with said furious anger....

Last night, it was approximately 11pm, and I was startled by the noise. At first, my thinking was, "why in the hell are they arguing?". See, when I had gone to lie down in the room, with all five of the pups in tow, Carl and Mark were in the living room playing Xbox and as they often do, very enthusiastically going on their killing sprees with great emotion. This is has become their bonding experience as of late, and they have seemed to found a common ground of yelling, stomping, laughing, and shooting zombies together that makes me smile. They never argue. They get along really well. Hence, my confusion as to all of the yelling that woke me.

I come out into our living room to find our front door open and all of the chaos issuing. Mark was at the door, Carl was standing directly behind him, and at the door, was our glorious neighbor from upstairs, with four of her oh so polite and as glorious counter parts, whom I am assuming she brought along for "moral support". Two girls, and two guys, all screaming with her at the top of their lungs. Trying to make sense of what was going on, I caught on pretty quickly. We have been having problems from the moment they moved in. The girl is quite young, maybe 20, with 2 small children, and her maturity level is probably at the same as her offspring. Not too sure of the other occupants of the apartment. What is confirmed is that they pretty much run around with the energy of a herd of elephants, and at times, it feels like they are going to come through our ceiling. Pounding back does no good, as they "stomp" back in some sort of game. My question has always been, "Where are they going?". The apartment is only so big, and after one or two laps, haven't you seen all there is to see? Then there is the dog...the ever barking out on the patio till all hours, never been walked EVER dog....so...after complaints to the office, after trying to talk to them, and so on, and so on....A note was placed on their door, because said dog was left out on patio, for over 24 hours, barking all of 24 hours, while neighbor was out of town. Note said specifically, "Your dog has been barking now since 5pm, and has not stopped. You never walk your poor dog, and it is freezing outside. Please take care of your dog or animal control will be called. Be considerate of your neighbors. Some of us work graveyard, or have to be up very early, and can't sleep because of the constant barking."
This was 3 days ago. Apparently, she had time to sit and plan, and plot her next move, which was to get a "posse" for back up, and wait until 11pm at night, and come to our door like common thugs.

The screaming is continuing. "Who the fuck put this note on my fucking door?"
Mark/Carl - "WE put the note on your door"

Girl-"You messed with the wrong mutha fuckin people! now what! now what!"

Carl- "Keep your dog quiet! Tell your dog to shut the fuck up!"

Girl- "Its a dog...it's a dog."

Mark-"Back up...you need to back up." (This was because they started trying to come IN OUR APARTMENT)

This is when I am getting pissed, and really fed up. I tell Mark to shut the door. The girl, who keeps yelling, and carrying on, screams at me, not sure what she said, is pushing Mark. I yell at Mark to shut the door and I am calling the police. This is when the girl SWINGS AT ME trying to hit me. Mark is in front of me, and says, "are you out of your fucking mind?"

Me-"WHO ARE YOU SWINGING AT? Mark SHUT THE DOOR!"

Girl-"Ya'll harrassin us by puttin this note on my door."

Mark- "No, see, now I'm going to give you an education. This note is what is called a warning. Now, the police are coming, and they are going to explain to you that you are now what is called the "PRIMARY AGGRESSOR, and now your all going to go to jail. So go ahead, show them this note. We did exactly what we are supposed to do in this situation. Now, you came down here, acting stupid, trying to push your way in here, making threats, your gonna go to jail."

Mark pushes me in the apartment, "Go inside Mom, go inside". I am on the phone with the dispatcher, who is listening to all of this on the phone. She won't let me hang up, because she can hear them, and knows they are trying to come in our apartment. The guy starts yelling at Carl, saying "You gotta go to work! We gonna getcha...you gotta go to work!" Carl starts yelling back, "I'm right here mother fucker, I'm right here", I push him back, shut our door. Geez us....Now, my son is out on the porch with these idiots, who, by the way, are just running their mouths and saying they are gonna get a "pump" (gun) cause apparently they are soooo tough. Really??? Really??? I open the door so the dispatcher can hear if they are still there. They are. Mark says, "See, the cops can hear every word you are saying. The guy goes upstairs. Reality hits. Carl pissed off the girl something awful, cause they are threatening that they known when we work, and are gonna mess up our trucks, break in our apartment, so he yells about her being on section 8.....

Then the cops come.

Oh, but officer, we didn't yell at them. We tried to go down and talk to them nicely. We never swung at anyone. Oh officer, I am so hurt. That awful man down there said I am on section 8. I am a poor, single mom. Oh, officer, I am so upset. They are so mean for putting this note on my door. Oh officer...what? You don't believer me? Oh officer...I am gonna get a $1100 fine? They had the entire thing on the phone with a dispatcher, and they are upstanding people, oh, and the young man I was pushing and shoving is a Fire department Cadet? Uh.......Fuck me sideways...

Why is it that I lived in one of the roughest neighborhoods in Las Vegas for years, and NEVER went through anything like this. Why is it, that to move into this expensive, very nice apartment complex, Carl and I went through a rigorous credit check, and had to pay a huge deposit, but now, for some reason, a girl who is completely unemployed is living above us? Why is it, that we are in a very nice, beautiful neighborhood, and we had a bunch of immature idiots coming down to our door at 11 o'clock at night with their own version of Jerry Springer, trying to fight, threaten and act like common thugs, all because they want to play house, but don't know how to act like decent human beings? This is our society? You come to a person's door, try to barge in and punch people because your dog is a nuisance to everyone around you, and your disturbing all of your neighbors, and so this is how you act? You might get arrested, go to jail, have your children taken to Child Haven, but this seemed like a great plan to you?

I think I have slept about 2 hours. They have the dog out barking right now. We have to go down to our office in about an hour, and try, again, to discuss this issue, and find out if we can be let out of the remaining months on our lease, which are 6. We will be forced to move. We have been here for almost 3 years, with no issues, but now, we will have no choice, but to move, because of them. I am really growing weary of things like this happening. It really doesn't pay to be responsible, or to try to be the good people anymore. Somehow, you are not protected. Somehow, no matter what, you still get the giant shaft.

~Adventures with the Botox Zombies~

Anyone who has ever worked in the service industry knows it can drive you to drinking. Most who do this job are already alcoholics, or are severely stressed. Many polls have Food Service listed as the number one job for stress, and the number two job for depression. It's like a double whammy. A nice slap in the face then a kick in the gut, all because you need to pay your bills. Not fair really. Living in a city where tourism is the key to survival, and the most reliable job around is waiting on tables, not to mention, most consistent income, it's a pretty crappy choice that you are forced to make. Make a living, but take a chance of being a bitch in the process.

People are just plain rude. There is no way around it. For some reason, they go out in public, and they loose their minds. I guess they are out, and they figure this is their 30 minutes of power. For this brief moment, they have authority. They just forget that you are a human being, just trying to do a job, and make a living. Most don't even make eye contact anymore. The adios wave has become a standard, or the "come hither". Yeah, that one gets a wave back from me. They sit there, all confused as to why I have waved at them, with this concerned look, like, "doesn't she understand that I NEED her now? Why is she waving back? I clearly waved her over here to force her to run to my table to take care of my every need immediately!"

We have the snappers. Argh. These just really piss me off. I am NOT a cocker spaniel, yet they seem to think a snap in the air will make me run in a brisk haste, with great anticipation for the next command. "Oh, yes master, whatever can I fetch for you now?" What the hell? Don't snap your stubby fingers because you need your fourth diet coke, then go into a rant about how you are sooo thirsty. Maybe it is from all the damn diet coke, which is 45% sodium that you are sucking down. Try drinking some water asshole. While your at it, try saying please and thank you, or maybe you didn't notice how I clearly and quite loudly announced "YOUR WELCOME" every time I sat one of your multiple diet coke's in front of you, as to bring to your attention your complete lack of manners.

Here's a quick list:

1. Yes, it is going to be a problem if you all have separate checks. Most computer systems in restaurants are NOT server friendly. Most of the time, we need to ring in every separate check, SEPARATELY, which means for 8 people, 8 separate checks. Oh, kitchens just LOVE this. Also, why in the hell do you do this if there are just two of you and you are paying in cash? You cheap bastards, just figure it out.

2. Don't start a complaint with "I know this isn't your fault but...." and then rant to me about your food. All this means is that your gonna bitch to me anyway, then stiff me on the tip. I didn't cook your food. If you want it corrected, then I will be happy to get it fixed for you. Don't stiff me because a cook messed up. I rely on my tips...plus I have to split them with a busser, a runner and a bartender. I don't even get to keep them all. You stiff me, I get taxed, and have to pay out of my own pocket...all because you felt like making me pay for a mistake I didn't make. Thanks....

3. If you can't afford to tip, don't fucking go out to eat. Seriously....just stay home. Oprah can kiss my ass. NO, it is not cool to tip 10%. Break that down....Honestly. Servers work harder than anyone realizes. I spend 8 hours a day running from the moment I get there, till the moment I leave, no break. No drink, no bathroom...nothing. This is no joke. I get your drinks, I take your order, I bring your food, I get your refills, I buss the table...everything. Bussers don't even buss tables anymore. I work my ass off. If you have a $22 bill, and you leave me $2, after tipping out, I get maybe .50 of that tip. Are you kidding me? Does that seem acceptable to you? I tip better than that at Starbucks....

4. For the love of God, and all things in this world, CHEW WITH YOUR MOUTH CLOSED!! Just have some manners. I have seen people with diamonds the size of walnuts on their hands, and they have food falling out of their mouths while they are chewing, talking, just ugh!!! Money can't buy you class.

5. Don't assume that because I am waiting on tables that you are better than me. A woman came in and had more botox in her lips than I have fat in my ass. She had so much bad surgery on her face that she looked like Frankenstien. She sat her pompus butt down, and refused to take her sunglasses off, because apparently, she "thought" she was famous. I walked over to the table, said good morning, and she promptly, rudely said to me, "Where is Ann Taylor at...oh, never mind....YOU wouldn't know."    Um, WHAT? What the hell is that supposed to mean? Because I work in a restaurant, and you don't work at all, I don't know where Ann Taylor is? Who the hell do you think you are? BITCH.

6. No, we are not going to spit in your food. Just don't be rude. If you are rude, I will make sure you wait....and wait....and wait. That's all. I'm not a savage.

7. It is not our responsibility to feed your bratty kid. That's your job. If you didn't feed them, don't tell us that we HAVE to rush your order, or hurry. NO, we don't. You should be a better parent. Your food will come out when it is ready. You are not any more important than any of the other guests. It is also not our fault if you are late for a meeting, or your flight, or if you are in a hurry. You should have better time management practices. Learn to set an alarm. Get up early. Stop staying out so late. Don't come into a restaurant and try to tell a server that the must hurry your order. Yeah...not going to happen.

A man, somewhere in his late 50's came in to eat. He was with two of his friends. They sat down. They were very pleasant. Chatting away, they were laughing, looking over the menu. I came to the table, said hello. After taking their orders, I came back to the table with some condiments that they would be needing. I sat them down on the table, some of which were our butter pats. They used to be stamped with the hotel logo on them at this time. The man picked one of them up, and began looking at the logo, and seemed perplexed. I was filling the coffee cups, and after I was done, he stopped me, and this is the true story of how our conversation went.

Man, "Um, 'mam. What does A-R-I-A spell?" (Please remember, this gentleman had a very strong southern accent. Not trying to make fun, just need to imagine this as reading, for effect of story)

Me, (In disbelief) It spells Aria sir.

Man, (confused look on his face. Still staring at butter pat) What is Aria?

Me, (deep breath, thinking, are you kidding me?) It's the hotel your in sir.

Man, ...............I went to school in Oklahoma.

And, scene.

I can't make this up. This is the kind of stuff that happens to me everyday. Like the botox zombies, that insist on their egg white omlets, very dry, no oil, no butter....let me repeat. Very dry, no oil, no butter. But in the very same breath with then say, "but make sure you bring me extra butter for my wheat toast".


"I will have the two eggs, any style, with bacon."
"How do you want your eggs sir?"
"I want them cooked."
"Yes, sir, but how do you want them? Scrambled, over easy...."
"why can't I just get some eggs!!
ARGH!! Or, you say, "that comes with toast. Do you prefer white, wheat rye or sourdough?" and they answer, "I will have a banana muffin". Um, NO. That wasn't one of the choices now was it.

This may seem petty, but go through this, all day, everyday. It will make you insane. People are stupid. They don't listen. They don't pay attention. They don't read the menu. "I want quiche". We don't have quiche. But I want quiche. READ the menu.

....sometimes, I come home, and I am dizzy. I am mentally drained. I really just want no contact with any human at all. This is why we love our puppies so much. They don't want to go out to eat. Thank goodness...

~ Finding my Own Path~

When it comes to the oldest religions in the world, it is easy to see why there would be controversy regarding this matter. In this article, you will learn some of the characteristics associated with ancient belief systems.

Hinduism

Many experts agree that the oldest organized religion in the world is Hinduism, which dates back to 1,500 BCE. The sacred texts of Hinduism (the Vedas) were written at this time and serve as a historical marker for the religion. Interestingly, Hinduism is a religion that has no known creator. The basis of the belief system is comprised of various cultures and myths. There are many different texts associated with Hinduism, which allow adherents to study philosophy, mythology, theology, as well as learn how to follow the practice of dharma – also known as religious living. Today, Hinduism is the largest religion in the world.

Judaism

Another religion that has roots dating back thousands of years ago is Judaism. Born around 1800 BCE, Abraham is recognized as the founder of Judaism. When tracing the origin and history of the religion, the Torah plays an important role. For many, the start of Judaism is often marked by the existence of the Torah.

The Torah (also known as the Five Books of Moses) represents the text surrounding the founding legal and ethical beliefs of Judaism. The Torah is the first of three parts of the Tanakh, which is the Hebrew Bible. The books are separated into five different sections with names written in English: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. The first individual to put the Torah in writing was Moses, who did so about 1400 BCE.

Paganism

Not all religions or forms of worship are organized. Many feel that Paganism is the oldest belief system in the world. It is from Paganism that Wicca and other extensions of earth-related worship get their start. The concept of Mother Earth as a goddess is one that was embraced as far back as 30,000 years ago during Paleolithic times. The modern version of paganism is linked to Celtic religious beliefs that date back to around 1000 BCE.

Common Misconception

Across the world, Islam and Christianity currently have the most adherents, but they are actually among the newest forms of worship. Islam dates back to 610 CE with Abraham serving as the oldest prophet of the religion. Adherents of Islam believe that their religion is the complete and universal version of a prehistoric belief system that has been revealed many different times and at various places, involving religious figures, such as Moses, Abraham, and Jesus.

Christianity has roots that trace back to about 30 CE. The religion is based on the life and word of Jesus of Nazareth. Gospels and other writings, such as the Bible, play an important role in the religion. Those who follow and practice the faith are referred to as Christians. They typically belong to various churches, such as the three largest organizations in the world: the Roman Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox churches, and churches of Protestantism.

So, now that we got all of that straight...

I am really over and done with everyone all of their crap. LOL. The reason for all of the above is because it is FACT. I love how most people go around spouting off at the mouth to others, trying to tell them what to believe, how to believe, that if you don't go to church your going to hell, if you don't wear a white sheet and dunk in some water, you won't go to heaven. Oh, if you don't get married between these four walls and keep the entire ceremony all top secret and tell everyone it's all sacred then your not really committed to each other, and by the way, your not even really married. My religion is the true religion. Your religion isn't even real. You don't believe in God, you worship statues. Ugh....Get over yourselves people.

I really don't worry about what anyone else believes in their heart. Whatever works for you, well, great. If you believe that this white guy with light brown hair and blue eyes from the middle east, ( bwhahahahahahaha, sorry, but REALLY?, is he albino?) is hanging out in the sky on fluffy white clouds watching your every move with a pencil and paper, and is gonna catch ya at these golden gates like a hall monitor to say, your in, your out, your cool, you suck...whatever. I don't care. If you believe in Karma, do as to others...I get it. If you believe in aliens, or your Jewish, or Hindu, or whatever you are, then you believe. My issue is when you believe, and feel like you must force that on to others. That's where you are WRONG.

Beliefs are for the individual. It is a choice for everyone to make for themselves. No one has the right to tell anyone how to believe. It is not for you to say that I must feel the same way as you do. Nor is it right for you to condemn me for not sharing in your beliefs. It would be like me telling you I love the color red, and you saying you love the color purple. Suddenly, I shout, "your going to hell!" How ridiculous, right? Now, your sitting there thinking, "comparing taste in color is not even close to religious choice". Yes, it is. It is a choice. It is something that is personal. It is a liking, it is something that is pleasing, something that makes you happy. I can't even say to this very day what it is that I truly believe. I have questions. Many questions. Most churches and religions won't even allow you to do that. It is unheard of, frowned upon, you are banished. In my upbringing, I was sent to Catholic services. I would have been accused of blasphemy had I  raised the questions that I do today. As an adult, I see nothing wrong with asking questions. It is how you learn, evolve, resolve issues, develop into a confident human being, strong in your convictions. There are many things that I am curious about, and read up on. As I do so, I find, there are many religions that I am quite offended by. I don't think that some are aware of the real beliefs that are in the churches they attend. Most are quite hypocritical, judgmental, unforgiving. I cannot be a part of that. I refuse to be blind to such things. As an adult, I can stand and say, "No, I don't agree." I can stand and say, "No, I don't agree that God would not be able to remain jealous, a petty emotion, that even us simple humans are able to overcome." This very sentence has gotten me into furious arguments with family members and close friends. It is MY belief, but because it is not their belief, I was told I was wrong. Um, what? I find that hysterical. My belief is wrong, yet their belief is true and correct? Like I said, hypocritical...

Recent events have made religion a center topic in our household. It is true that when you come of age, and in certain religions, make a choice to make a break from that church, ultimately commit social suicide. You find that even the closest of family will suddenly say you are "lost". You cannot be saved. They will turn on you, they will make all sorts of accusations, and resort to furious anger. All in the name of God? Baffling. If this is what Gods love is, I want no such part.

I leave with the ever brilliant quote brought to my attention by my ever brilliant Aunt, whom I count my blessings for every single day. Unconditional love and support should come to us all in the example of her wisdom and constant light.

~if love is not enough then god doesn't understand the concept, much less could he have invented it~
Well then, maybe he didn't. Maybe it was someone much, much smarter...yeah..I'm gonna go with that...

When it comes to the oldest religions in the world, it is easy to see why there would be controversy regarding this matter. In this article, you will learn some of the characteristics associated with ancient belief systems.

Hinduism

Many experts agree that the oldest organized religion in the world is Hinduism, which dates back to 1,500 BCE. The sacred texts of Hinduism (the Vedas) were written at this time and serve as a historical marker for the religion. Interestingly, Hinduism is a religion that has no known creator. The basis of the belief system is comprised of various cultures and myths. There are many different texts associated with Hinduism, which allow adherents to study philosophy, mythology, theology, as well as learn how to follow the practice of dharma – also known as religious living. Today, Hinduism is the largest religion in the world.

Judaism

Another religion that has roots dating back thousands of years ago is Judaism. Born around 1800 BCE, Abraham is recognized as the founder of Judaism. When tracing the origin and history of the religion, the Torah plays an important role. For many, the start of Judaism is often marked by the existence of the Torah.

The Torah (also known as the Five Books of Moses) represents the text surrounding the founding legal and ethical beliefs of Judaism. The Torah is the first of three parts of the Tanakh, which is the Hebrew Bible. The books are separated into five different sections with names written in English: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. The first individual to put the Torah in writing was Moses, who did so about 1400 BCE.

Paganism

Not all religions or forms of worship are organized. Many feel that Paganism is the oldest belief system in the world. It is from Paganism that Wicca and other extensions of earth-related worship get their start. The concept of Mother Earth as a goddess is one that was embraced as far back as 30,000 years ago during Paleolithic times. The modern version of paganism is linked to Celtic religious beliefs that date back to around 1000 BCE.

Common Misconception

Across the world, Islam and Christianity currently have the most adherents, but they are actually among the newest forms of worship. Islam dates back to 610 CE with Abraham serving as the oldest prophet of the religion. Adherents of Islam believe that their religion is the complete and universal version of a prehistoric belief system that has been revealed many different times and at various places, involving religious figures, such as Moses, Abraham, and Jesus.

Christianity has roots that trace back to about 30 CE. The religion is based on the life and word of Jesus of Nazareth. Gospels and other writings, such as the Bible, play an important role in the religion. Those who follow and practice the faith are referred to as Christians. They typically belong to various churches, such as the three largest organizations in the world: the Roman Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox churches, and churches of Protestantism.



In 58 BCE the Roman Empire would march through the lands of Gaul removing Druidic chiefs and dismantling the tribal cultures and religions that had practiced there for thousands of years prior.  The practice of Druidic Shamanism would fall into obscurity until recently when it would make a major revival.  And now in 2010 the religion that has outlasted kings, empires, and entire civilizations has officially and for the first time been recognized nationally in its homeland as an official religion.  The move is as historically significant to the rest of the world as it is to the druids themselves.

Druids will now be able to receive federal funding as well as tax exempt status as an official religion.  Additionally they will be able to exercise their rights more effectively as a religion, no longer having to fear whether or not they are going to be recognized in a court of law for civil matters.

In the official documentation set up by the Charity commission, Druids worship nature and believe various aspects of it such as trees, rivers, and mountains have spirits.  In recent years the number of Druids in the UK has swelled, and now boast more than 10,000 practicing members with even more private or hermetic practitioners.  The popularity of the religion is said to be partially due to the increased interest in nature as well as an increased awareness in issues of the environment.  Because they worship various representations in nature the environment is revered more in druidic practices than in almost any other officially recognized religion.

But the druidic religion, according to some members, has changed quite a bit since it was first practiced thousands of years ago.  At its inception, druids would revere mountains, trees, and rivers partially because they truly were  insurmountable forces of nature that the druids were bound to live among.  Today's druidic tradition attempts to recapture these older ways while still living alongside a new society filled with roads, planes, solid houses, and cities.  In fact, the druidic tradition of today is in many ways quite different.  But when Austria hired several druids to remove curses on motorways to reduce traffic collisions, they actually had a great deal of success and noted a decrease in driver collisions suggesting the religion does still seem to wield some level of power.  And if not magically, then certainly it has conjured up a great deal of political power.

So what lies in store for the future?  With the increased interest in religious practices such as druidism, there will no doubt be a push for official status among other religions once considered alternative to be recognized within the mainstream officially.

And the wait has certainly been long enough.  With about one in 6,000 UK citizens a practicing druid, the organization is expecting to find more members in the coming year thanks to the official status.  And who's to say what may come next after that?

Maybe someone can help me...

I was getting my five year old ready for school. He loved his school, because he got to go all day long. Most kindergarten classes are only half day, but Daryal was fortunate that he went to an all day class, which put him at an advantage once he reached first grade. Also, he adored his teacher, who just happened to be a dwarf. This is just brilliant for small kids, because they can relate so much better to someone who is their size. They loved her, and trusted her. He eagerly awaited school everyday. I only lived about 2 blocks from the school, and most of the time, we would walk. Today, however, I was going to drive. I am not sure why, I can't remember. Circumstances, however, led to the following.

My phone rang. Way too early for a phone call. I answered, and it was the devil. We were separated at this point, and as far as I knew, he was living with his mother. This man never got up before noon, so again, not the norm. He wanted to know if I had taken Daryal to school yet. Why? "uh, no, I am leaving now". This was bizzare. Something happened that delayed me another minute or two, most likely, it was getting all of the kids in the car, since I had 3 under the age of 5. LOL. So, I drive off, around the corner, pull into the parking lot, and oh...whats that? That oddly looks like our old Monte Carlo. Wow. Looks just like it. How weird. He told me that car had gotten repossessed. It was gone one day when we woke up. He didn't seem overly upset either. Who the hell is driving? Oh. It's him. Who is in the car with him? A small girl. She goes to this school. Why is he dropping off a small girl at this school? The look of shock on his face as I pulled next to him and rolled down the window was priceless. He immediately screamed at me, as he always did. "I thought you said you were on your fucking way 10 minutes ago!" Oh, don't change the subject. "Who is the little girl?"
"mind your fucking business...
and he drove off.

Ah, such a gentleman. The little girl is Markeydaa Brandon. She is the daughter of Donna Brandon, who it turned out, had been having an affair with him for the last year of our marriage. Also, she had our Monte Carlo. He gave it to her. Told me it had been repossessed, then gave it to her. She wound up being around for about 6 years. Then he so graciously moved on to his 1st cousin, Missy. Yes, you read that right. There are a ton of other stories...but let's move on.

Anyway, this "Donna", won't go away. I am bothered for so many reasons. One, she has her own children, but is beyond obsessed with mine. She continues to call my kids to this very day, and tells people they are her kids. She posts over and over on my daughters Facebook, and talks to her like they are just bonded for life, and she is just soooo important to the very existence of her. Then, she is still writing to my brother Frank, my sister in law Zina, and now, this shit....

Donna Marie Scherer

Hi Papa! Marrkeydaa, Tyrone and I have missed you! Have a Blessed New Year. I will try and get all the kids together and come take you out for lunch, soon. We love you. 

Um, yeah, that's to my Dad, on his Facebook. Um, what the fuck? Sorry, but at what point do you move on? First of all, let me tell you, my family is dysfunctional, and screwed up enough. It was bad enough that my parents let this thing in their house in the first place, knowing what took place, knowing everything. To say that my MOTHER of all people should have understood how it felt for me, is an understatement. This woman has her own kids, but just goes on and on about mine. Hers, meanwhile, have issues, and problems, and she doesn't try to be a parent to them. No...she gets high with them. Daughter has 3 kids with 3 different dads. I feel for that girl. She needs her Mother. What the hell????



So, in a previous post, you now know what I was talking about. This is one of the people who just can't leave my kids alone. Move the fuck on! I am sorry, but really. Enough is enough. The truth of all of the crap that she did with that man to me is surfacing, and eventually, she will have to face her demons. You can't just spew lies and garbage and make stuff up forever. You can't partake in evil ways, and expect to not have to pay for them at some point. Why on earth would she be writing to my Father? My Mother passed away. Those days of conspiring to destroy and hurt me are over. My dad has moved on. Has a new woman. She doesn't give a rat's ass about you or buying any presents, and unless you are providing a steady income to said ex husband of mine, he doesn't have any use for your tired ass either. TRUTH. Sting? Try years of having your life screwed with by an ex prostitute and a crooked wanna be cop.

So, people, now that the rant is over....I know you will say, let it go. I do. At some point. But then crap like this pops up, or one of my kids has an achievement and these idiots come out of the woodwork wanting credit and spotlight. I don't understand why they all can't just move on with their lives and leave us alone. You know what? I really am the only one who LEFT that idiot. I really am the only one who got out, and doesn't want a single fucking thing to do with him. Not my parents, or my brother and his wife, or any of his ex what ever they are. But I did. Maybe that's why they all hate me. I got out of the well.