11 Fabulous George Carlin lines: 1.

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 19, 2017:

Acrostic: A hidden message in texts? #8 always is/has been very relevant concerning our government in my lifetime.

My dog says that humans are crazy! Is she right or just barking up the wrong tree?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 19, 2017:

She's got me treed.

What’s your favorite ice cream flavor?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 19, 2017:

Real Strawberry, not a flavor

For those that are single : At this point in your life , would you rather date around, or be in ...

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 19, 2017:

I'm single in my mind. I know that doesn't count for much in the legal world. One-on-one relationship is the only way I want to go. Living together would be ideal. Separate bedrooms are ok. No reason to get married unless we aren't from the same country.

Self-help books: are they helpful or harmful?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 19, 2017:

Are DIY books considered self-help? Aren't all books self-help books?

Hypothetical: All of humanity is leaving Earth.

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 19, 2017:

If I helped develop them haven't I already interfered? And if I have already interfered, wouldn't I logically continue to do so?

What do you want to happen to your body when you die?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 19, 2017:

Living people can use my organs, etc for reparations, then I think the best way to get rid of the rest of my body is to dig a hole, place me sitting in a fetal position in the hole, bury me and plant a tree on top. I'll be in the tree if anyone needs me.

Wisdom from Mark Twain: 1.

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 19, 2017:

# 5 is so true. Well, the other ones are too, but #5 is so true.

What are your thoughts on “foul” language?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 19, 2017:

Schisse

How open are you about debate?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 19, 2017:

I don't 'feel' like I know enough to debate anything. There are people that would destroy me by pulling up all sorts of resources and blah. I love a lively discussion though, metaphorically speaking.

Bill Nye & Ken Ham Debate While Touring Ark Encounter (UNCUT) (COMMENTS OPEN) - YouTube

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 19, 2017:

I wasted about 15 min of my life that I will never get back, and found this a very good way to do it. It was insightful.

Would you date you?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 19, 2017:

No, I'm getting older, gravity is having its effect, and I've never particularly liked the way I look. Characteristically, I like myself. I'm artistic, accept criticism, physically active, don't have many scruples, think logically (most of the time), and love dark chocolate. Maybe a blind person would be a good match. They see with their hands in a similar way that I do. This is one of those questions that gets stuck in my head. So of course I must amend my reply. I would be crazy to meet me in a female suit. We'd explore each other's bodies, we'd shower together (to conserve water, ha), she'd know exactly when to leave me alone and when to 'bother' me, she'd understand my moods and emotions, she'd show empathy. I don't think it'd last very long.

Its awesome that i can meet people in other countries here. I love it

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 19, 2017:

Yes, there's a small international feel developing on this site. I like it as well.

Hello Agnostics! This is my first post here.

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 19, 2017:

Wow. I'm from a religious family, but am not responsible for carrying as much luggage around as you are. I can relate to you, but not anywhere as close as someone from your own religious background could. Take heart in people accepting you for who you are rather than what they want you to be.

As an atheist, I think Homosexuality should not come into mainstream. What's your take ?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 19, 2017:

In my non-scientific reply: There are many forms of animals, not just humans, that demonstrate homosexual behavior. I believe it's around 10% of humans. It's 'abnormal' because only a small percentage have this trait, but if we start selecting who we accept or don't accept due to whatever trait, how does that make us better animals?

Have you ever regretted the time you have wasted?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 19, 2017:

I believe it's the norm, but that begs the question of what is time wasted? Often times I ask myself this question. Is down time wasted? Is relaxing and conversing/relating to people wasted? I don't know that it's a productive use of your time to think about it. It's water under the bridge so to say. Try to be more productive in the present if you feel like you have wasted so much time in the past.

Hello Atheist and Agnostics! This my very first post as a new member here.

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 19, 2017:

The devil did do it! Ditto @Lancer.

do souls truly exists?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 19, 2017:

Soul to me means the 'essence' of me. What energies I give off; everything that is personal to me; that which makes up me. Do I believe it exists without me? No. When I die, where does it go? No scientific evidence for the way I see it, but once my brain stops functioning so does my soul.

How many agnostics does it take to change a light bulb?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 19, 2017:

I'm not sure.

How do you get more activity. .......

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 19, 2017:

You're a whiney little ice crystal that's stuck in a cloud. Just kidding, of course. You might be big. If you're feeling down or depressed, feel free to send me a message. I can't guarantee I'll make you feel any rosier or less likely to experience roadrage, but I'll do my best to confuse you so much that you forget about your current problems. If you're looking for a possible partner, then start making friends when you aren't depressed, so when you need them, they are there. Don't give up and don't get discouraged. This post is a good example of positive action. Keep it up and if you need someone to push you off the ledge, I'm here for you. I'm sure you'll find a lot of helpful people on this site.

Truck Drivers and Tesla Trucks

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 18, 2017:

Technology and job loss ... the modern age.

What a Wonderful World - YouTube

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 18, 2017:

Fantastic. Made me feel better. Thanks.

glad I stumbled across this site.

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 18, 2017:

Have fun and make friends quickly.

What about Thanksgiving?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 18, 2017:

Thanksgiving is a family event for me. That means my kids cousins are coming. And the table is amazing with a lot of family members kicking in with their specialties. Just a family feast with almost zero religion talk.

I'm off to my nans for chrismas(bleugh), but the issue being is all the family over there refuse to ...

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 18, 2017:

Enjoy! ... the best you can.

In love, how much does money matter?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 18, 2017:

Not at all important was my answer. After reading others' responses, perhaps I answered incorrectly. It can be very important to a partner, yet not at all important to me. But in partnerships, the partner's stance needs to have an equal voice.

Are there any vegans like me that are not vegans in the strict sense of the word but just people who...

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 18, 2017:

I'm not a vegan or a vegetarian, but I'm glad there are people like you out there. I've worked on several smallish family owned farms and find them safe and animal friendly. It's when the farms get so big and capital driven that causes health concerns. We have several farmer markets in the area were produce, meat, dairy products, etc are sold. The farmers encourage customers to visit their farms, which I have done several times. I feel comfortable being an omnivore, but am selective of my sources.

What Type of Poster are You?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 18, 2017:

Sometimes the post isn't clearly stated or there might be varying interpretations. If that's the case, I might read the responses first. Generally, I jump right end and tell them what I'm thinking. Sometimes with the result of throwing egg in my face.

Should there be limits on free speech in the media?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 18, 2017:

I'm in favor of free speech and reporting of facts. When it's only opinion, it should be stated so. Misinformation is no more than propaganda.

To argue a point or position without facts and reason to support it simply acknowledges the ...

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 18, 2017:

Not necessarily. It just demonstrates the debater hasn't thought through her/his aurgument.

Tell your grandpa to put his gun away.

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 18, 2017:

I'd say only in east TN, but I know that's not true. That's one reason I always wanted to be an Indian. Imagine Indians sitting around a campfire talking about their kills for the day. One hunter shows his power pull and shoots a tribe member by accident. Guess it could happen.

Hi I've just joined the date so, so Hello everyone! What's ya pleasures tonight then?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 18, 2017:

Hi, I'm usually flaking out. Morning for me. Coffee a necessity. Trying to focus my energetic mind on the task. Exhausting. Time for a nap?

Its 1973, just came back from Vietnam.

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 18, 2017:

Good advice.

This is a poem that I wrote months ago, and I'd love some feedback on it.

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 18, 2017:

Firstly, I'm not a poet, so any criticism I could impart would have little value. Non-poetic criticism isn't justified either. So, if I comment, it is unjustifiable and purely from my egocentric outlook on life. Your poem has a pessimistic outlook. True at times and reflective of your personal struggles with feeling like a blacksheep. Thanks for sharing. It takes guts exposing yourself.

Weapons

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 18, 2017:

I'd have to go with the brain idea. The human brain is what has developed these weapons we use. My first 'weapon' that I made was a slingshot or perhaps a bow and arrow. Never 'killed' anyone or anything with them though. My brain wasn't functioning like that. I was simply an Indian defending my way of life against the European invaders.

A Tim Minchin quote: "Science adjusts its views based on what's observed.

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 18, 2017:

Our world is constantly changing and our views should not remain static either. There are more things that we don't know compared to what we know. Science at least asks questions and searches for answers.

With teen mental health deteriorating over five years, there's a likely culprit

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 18, 2017:

Another form of removing people from 'the present environment' of personal contact to that of a machine that give instant 'gratification'. I believe it's very important for kids to learn and observe their 'real' world. My son enjoys playing on the computer (watching videos, too) and watching tv. I limit the amount of time allowed for both. I've noticed he becomes internally obsessed and short tempered right after his computer or tv time. Something I have to keep an eye on.

I have to say that I feel incredibly lucky to not only have parents who didn't freak out when I said...

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 18, 2017:

Dreams are made of these.

just thought I would check this out.

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 18, 2017:

Hello, and welcome to the dark dungeon of enlightenment.

Frequency of new front page posts

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 17, 2017:

Welcome to the wonderful world of coding.

Masturbation Takes A Holiday: 'No Nut November'

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 17, 2017:

"raise awareness so that people can make an educated decision about their porn use” I see a reliance issue developing.

Worth the wait?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 17, 2017:

I search the whole wide world just to find her (Cage The Elephant "Whole Wide World"). Time is a problem when I'm impatient. Why settle? And there is no perfect!

What would you give up?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 17, 2017:

I've spent a lot of time in my life searching for, sometimes running from, refinement of my talents, elimination of interesting but unfruitful sidetracks, the actions that make me the happiest person. I see it as a lifelong process.

The universe!!

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 17, 2017:

Like some humongous spaghetti monster or something? If our solar system is just a small neuron pulsing it's way to wherever, than sure. We could be a small part of a functioning whole and not be aware of it.

A list of scientific discoveries that were proven wrong using religion...

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 17, 2017:

It depends on your frame of mind. If I don't believe in science, I don't accept scientific evidence. If I believe in 'religion', I already have the proof I need. God said it, so it must be true.

Should euthanasia or "death with dignity" be available to anyone upon demand under controlled ...

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 16, 2017:

Yes, ditto to @gearl.

How to: Make peace with a parent...

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 16, 2017:

That's gotta be tough. I avoid talking religion to my mom, but that's me. It sounds like your father is afraid of 'what's after'. Perhaps you can change the story in favor of what he is expecting or wants to expect. It sounds like he might be becoming more stubborn with age as well. If you need/want to talk to him, talk about him. Most people like to talk about themselves. Talk about the similarities instead of the differences. My mom just turned 88 and one thing she is willing to do and I think she appreciates it too, is video her talking about practically anything in her past. Often times I wish I had a camera running. I'm assuming you like to spend time with your dad, you just don't want to talk about religion. Sometimes props help.

Lets do a community story.

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 16, 2017:

I almost peed in my pants, but i did it. Dad's dying from a heart-attack while Terry and Nancy are rolling uncontrollably on the floor. Mom looks like she has rabies, and Uncle Toby ... wait, where is Uncle Toby?

What's an example of UnIntelligent Design?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 16, 2017:

Natural selection is considered unintelligent? My balding head is pretty unintelligent at times.

Apparently since I consider myself an atheist I'm supposed to not believe in aliens or the ...

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 15, 2017:

You're doing fine. Keep asking questions.

Commitment.

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 15, 2017:

Are they in jail justifiably? If they killed someone intentionally, I'd be gone.

Why thinking is the hardest part of our brain?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 15, 2017:

Common sense: “Those plain, self-evident truths or conventional wisdom that one needed no sophistication to grasp and no proof to accept precisely because they accorded so well with the basic (common sense) intellectual capacities and experiences of the whole social body" Rosenfeld, Sophia (2014). Common sense : a political history. [S.l.]: Harvard Univ Press. p. 23. ISBN 9780674284166. "Common sense" is the ability with which animals (including humans) process sense-perceptions, memories and imagination (phronein) in order to reach many types of basic judgments. Aristotle So, it sounds like an animal thing and shouldn't be that difficult to access.

To be "good" with something those who are "good".

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 15, 2017:

For me, it depends on the situation and whose definition you're using. Example: I'm at a friend's house and we decide to get high. It's good for him and me, but the neighbor next door might think it's bad. Can the neighbor be 'saved' from himself. I think the only 'sin' is denying 'god'. So, maybe it doesn't matter.

Should employers be allowed to give pre-employment tests?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 15, 2017:

It's an employer. It's their company and they have the duty to take as good care of it as possible. If a potential employee really wants to work for that company, they will take any tests the company decides to administer. And no, it's probably not fair. It depends on the employer's mindset as far as how recognizable humans are. Small businesses (1-99 employees) are as responsible as larger companies (>500 employees) for producing close to 80% of jobs. Medium size companies (100-499 employees) are responsible for the other 20%. Just a quick reminder of who creates jobs in the US. https://www.stlouisfed.org/Publications/Regional-Economist/April-2011/Are-Small-Businesses-the-Biggest-Producers-of-Jobs

Are you a skeptic or a cynic?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 15, 2017:

I consider myself to be skeptical most of the time, but cynical sometimes. To be skeptical I need to see valid evidence before believing a claim. When I'm cynical, I'm assuming I already know the facts and I have already made my decision. I'm closed off from other possibilities. I hate it when I find myself doing that, but it happens every so often.

Do you have qualms about words with religious context?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 15, 2017:

I don't have any qualms about using words that religions have borrowed and contaminated. It is our duty to reclaim these words. In order to do that, we have to use them. Science uses mystical words to define things (weather science and lightning pop into thought), so why shouldn't we?

Picatrix: Secrets of Ancient Magic - YouTube

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 15, 2017:

Are you a mystique? I'm pretty ignorant of the Kabbalah, but I'm willing to learn. Wanting to see your perspective, so be patient. While it is heavily used by some denominations, it is not a religious denomination in itself. It forms the foundations of mystical religious interpretation. Kabbalah seeks to define the nature of the universe and the human being, the nature and purpose of existence, and various other ontological questions. It also presents methods to aid understanding of the concepts and thereby attain spiritual realization. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kabbalah You're a profest atheist. What specifically interest you concerning Kabbalah?

ENJOY RIGHT NOW!! Because it's gone.....

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 15, 2017:

Now is also a continuation. Experiencing is probably more encompassing.

Give a little, take a little.

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 15, 2017:

Nice post. Sometimes I get in a hurry and that's when I realize I'm accepting subpar work. My slow, methodical approach bothers those who are watching though, and it gets tiresome deflecting those aspirations they try to impose on me. Be prepared, think ahead. Thanks.

Artificial intelligence!

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 15, 2017:

It'll be whatever we program it to be. And yes, if it survives long enough (people creating artificial intelligence) then I can conceive of it creating itself, increasingly improving, eventually surpassing the usefulness of humans. Maybe we can be house pets.

You do need to be crazy to understand me, but I'm sure it helps.

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 15, 2017:

I'm sure that's not true about your dog. He wants to play, interact, cuddle, sleep, get some exercise, ... Sounds like you need to get out of yourself, get some exercise, play, cuddle, ...

A bartender went into a church, a cathedral and a mosque. He had no idea how jokes work.

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 15, 2017:

A bartender who didn't know how jokes work? Must have been a very unsuccessful bartender. Why did you go to the church first?

Critical thinking can be more actively taught, that's for sure. How should we do it?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 14, 2017:

The ideal school is an exciting place where learning is a process of making sense of important truths that one can use in life; school as a place where one learns to read closely and write substantively; school as a place where one learns to think historically, sociologically, scientifically, mathematically; school as a place where one learns to ask important questions and pursue important answers; school as a place where one learns how to gather useful information and where one begins to learn the art of problem-solving; school as a place where students have success in learning because they are learning how to learn, how to make sense of things, how to communicate and solve problems effectively; school as a community of learners and thinkers; school as a place where kindness, thoughtfulness, and helpfulness are modeled every day, where there is no bullying, mocking, ridiculing or teasing. http://www.criticalthinking.org/pages/professional-development-model-for-k-12/436 Just an idea.

Does a good relationship require 100% honesty?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 13, 2017:

Honesty shouldn't be confused with privacy. I believe it is necessary to try and be as honest as possible. With an open communication, honesty should be expected. Privacy is completely different. Your thoughts are your thoughts. You can explain them as best you can, but the other person will never get the whole truth. Honesty is an action and truth is a concept.

When vegans try to explain how dogs and cats can be vegan too what is your reaction?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 13, 2017:

It's not natural. Although I've never discussed this with a vegan before.

What is your reactions to people touching or moving your personal belongings?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 13, 2017:

If you know the person is OCD, then yes, it's disrespectful. If you don't know, it should be forgiven. I'm not OCD and hope I haven't caused any unnecessary anxieties by my careless actions.

"Whats on my mind, Rolly?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 13, 2017:

I hadn't noticed or got the same impression. If it is true, perhaps they're being more patient than the 'average guy' for the real 'you' to appear.

What is truth?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 13, 2017:

I had to do some digging on this one. A very 'deep' question. What I've found that perhaps best describes my view is truth = unconcealment. As far as news reports go (fake news, propaganda, etc), I look at sources, ones I mostly trust. And the 'truth' is never fully known, you can only get close. The 'truth' is an aspiration.

DOES SMOKING WEED MAKE YOU A BAD PARENT?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 13, 2017:

I'm other as well. For me, smoking is a time for no responsibilities. If I'm being responsible, then I'm trying my darndest to be responsible. Things happen.

Should the US continue to back Israel in its sectarian war with the Palestinians?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 13, 2017:

Even if it were to end, it wouldn't be overnight. I agree with your overall feelings that Israel is the aggressor, that they have to vacate the West Bank, allow Palestinians to use Jerusalem, and allow the Palestinians have a country. How all that should/could come about I don't have a clue. I'm sure there are people around with legit ideas. And yes, the US should reduce their arm deals with Israel and many other parts of the world, but as long as $ is king, wars will continue.

This is the topic on my mind tonight: Whenever you find yourself on the side of the majority.

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 13, 2017:

I agree, but not completely. What does 'on the majority' actually mean? (I'm being just a tiny, weeny, itty-bitty, tinsy-winsy sarcastic.)

Death is an essential part of evolution.

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 13, 2017:

I'm probably not as fast a traveller as you are. Hold up, I want to talk. You jumped from survival instinct (which every living thing has) to fantasies of an afterlight. It was as quick as lightning. Don't you think you're missing some really big steps? Recycling is a wonderful idea. We need to learn more from nature.

Psychedelics?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 13, 2017:

When I was in grad school. Those were my drug days. I've done LSD several times. Learned that I had to eat before taking acid. It gives me heartburn otherwise. Acid was ok, it was visual color streaks and blurs mostly. Mushrooms tasted nasty and had the same effects as acid, but they're organic. I'd definitely do them again. I've never done DMT. I didn't need anything affecting my visuals, so I didn't do that much. Speed was more of the drug of choice for me at the time.

I am fairly new to this site and find it intriguing and uplifting plus the dialoging helps me learn.

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 12, 2017:

Reminds of a movie where they ran a test in a simulated prison, half were guards the other half prisoners. Did not go well. There was a lot of ego badness, not much surviving. How do you come to the conclusion that 'humans or neither bad nor good just surviving' from the paragraph presented above?

How do you feel about Stephen Colbert discussing his faith on The Late Show and on the Colbert ...

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 12, 2017:

He's a good comedian. But one I don't care to watch.

Exercise anyone?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 12, 2017:

A long walk. I run too fast and miss the scenery (laughing to myself and holding my stomach).

I like to pronounce New Age so that it rhymes with sewage.

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 12, 2017:

Sewage music. Music to call the pigs by; Sueee iedg.

Religion: Engage or Ignore? (the less screwed up question)

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 12, 2017:

@Silvereyes Glad to see someone else having problems with words. It's a common struggle for me. Your question has the undertone of 1) communicating (even if we disagree), 2) don't want to talk about it just leave me be, and 3)I have already formed my opinion so don't want to talk about it. The topic, for me, goes beyond the topic of religion.

Hey gang - I am at a loss as to what to write about in my next political commentary for the ...

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 12, 2017:

Environmental awareness. But that doesn't pertain to the US political scene. Too bad.

Can Sex be Spiritual

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 12, 2017:

My take, yes, but I believe it takes a whole bunch of communication, understanding, and acceptance from everyone involved. Possible but probably improbable. And yes, I believe you can love more than one person equally. If you have kids, you understand what I'm trying to get at. You love them equally, but differently.

I believe that I can do anything in life as long as I don't effect anyone physically, mentally or ...

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 12, 2017:

That way of thinking would leave me motionless. Effects can have a wide range of repercussions that you simply aren't aware of. I try to do what I think is right, without considering the ramifications on 'everyone'.

Does marriage equate to love?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 12, 2017:

I don't think we need the legal version (unless you're vying for a tax break). I know some get married so they can legally migrate. It's all legalities, which make it easier for someone to profit from. Love has nothing to do with marriage and marriage seems to have very little to do with love.

I have a what if.... What if the definition of the word god meant to create?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 12, 2017:

Of course it will depend on who you ask. I grew up with the notion that god was all knowing and that we were created in god's image. So, everything that we made, actually god made through us. I used to kid about the umbrella god made or perhaps the trash. All the bad things we as humans can produce and/or make. It turns out to be a vicious cycle. God is whatever you want her/him/they to be.

What really determines our perception?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 12, 2017:

This is a battle I'm having with my son. He is 10. He seems very reliant on his own ego. Way more than I'm comfortable with. This 'ego' perspective deems himself to be over important while he downplays other's perspectives. Everyone is 'out to get him'. Our perception seems to be ruled more by who we think we are, rather than from observable 'facts'.

What makes someone a super member?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 10, 2017:

Both answers below are correct.

I just saw Jane Goodall ( Not sure of spelling) sign speaking with her gorilla and some chimps and ...

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 9, 2017:

Rule of nature? Evolution has decided what type of food a species needs to survive. Carnivores eat meat, herbivores eat plants, omnivores eat anything. Physically we are designed to eat (almost) anything. Digestion is another topic. I eat meat. Not an large amount, but I eat it. Some people say I won't eat meat because I love animals. Well, I love animals probably more than the average person; I also love plants. And being raised in the country with farmers all around me, I understand the history, the processes, the difference between pets and livestock. I've become more and more careful of my sources (living in a city changes the availability of food sources), but still haven't felt the 'urge' to become a vegetarian. Time will tell.

How long did it take you to realise that you're an atheist / agnostic?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 9, 2017:

My story is not so unusual, being raised in TN, in the buckle (literally) of the Bible Belt. I was raised a pk with two fairly non-conservative (liberal for the time perhaps) parents and 4 siblings. I grew up in the foothills of the Appalachian's. I remember both of my parents allowing and promoting me to be me and question whatever I thought necessary to question. I didn't question that many things outloud though. The religious things I did question, dad always had an answer for. He didn't interpret the Bible literally and he was more of a New Testament preacher. He was fascinated with dreams though and would interpret them in a scriptural, superbeing way. He had the 'faith' but his approach was unconventional. I had questions that I mostly kept to myself. One I remember very well (probably around 10 or 11), because I never found a suitable answer for. Why aren't there any miracles happening now? Why was there a flurry and now non? I went through all kinds of searching and methods of searching that I could think of up until I was 26. I finally 'proved to myself' that there wasn't a god and no reason for there to be one. Not one particular incident but an accumulation of many years of searching.

"Curses of Culture" I am going to write a series of posts on the topic "Curses of our Culture.

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 9, 2017:

Bring 'em on.

To gain some new insights, probably.

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 9, 2017:

Hi, I have to agree with @Squirrellglider on that. More direction would be helpful. My view: Everything is in constant motion, so nothing will ever be the same. With that said, I don't see nature as ever not repeating itself. Time is of the essence. And I view my life in contradictory ways.

If I was a fly on the wall, what would I learn about you?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 9, 2017:

That I own Venus Flytraps.

I learned something new today that I must share.

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 9, 2017:

Abracadabra. It's a wonderful word. And to be able to speak something into existence sounds like a really cool power to have! Just try to imagine how different this world would be if we all had this power!

Women asking a man for a date.

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 8, 2017:

That's the best way a guy can be certain that the lady wants to go out with him.

3 words to describe about you.

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 8, 2017:

creative, longing, discontented

What is a common misconception people have that is completely untrue?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 8, 2017:

Their actions have no consequences.

All in favor of the Burqa Ban party – Fauzia Rafique

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 8, 2017:

I'm not muslim and I hadn't thought enough about the other side of this story. I don't see the 'need' to make everyone appear the same anyway. And I definitely don't like it when the government dictates what is acceptable or not. Leave it up to the individual. Women wearing crosses bother me more.

Have you ever had a dream that you died in?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 8, 2017:

No, but I awakened myself just before the fatal moment.

What is one of your best childhood memories?

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 8, 2017:

Building a lean-to for my GI-Joes in the garden with the ragweeds we grew so well.

If religion never existed... (finish the line)

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 8, 2017:

... I wouldn't be who I am.

I want to pass along one of my favorite ironic jokes this morning as I awoke with it on my mind.

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 8, 2017:

It's a good question. What was Tillich's response?

Trump is an idiot when it comes to international trade.

AstralSmoke comments on Nov 8, 2017:

He's the art of the steal.