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Does anyone use a therapist?
Benthoven comments on Jan 7, 2018:
I'm all about therapy, drugs, and whatever it takes to cope with the realities of life. If "God" could have helped, he/it would have done so by now. Find a therapist who knows their stuff, and they won't need God. They'll have actual ways to deal with your challenges.
Benthoven comments on Jan 7, 2018:
I'm all about therapy, drugs, and whatever it takes to cope with the realities of life. If "God" could have helped, he/it would have done so by now. Find a therapist who knows their stuff, and they won't need God. They'll have actual ways to deal with your challenges.
Do you have close friends?
Benthoven comments on Jan 7, 2018:
I have friends that I've known for decades... are they close? Well, that's a tough one. Are online friends that close? I don't know.
Benthoven comments on Jan 7, 2018:
I have friends that I've known for decades... are they close? Well, that's a tough one. Are online friends that close? I don't know.
Fellow agnostics, how do you feel about believers joining?
Benthoven comments on Jan 7, 2018:
Not altogether that great. Beliefs, by their very nature, create defenses that prevent them from being challenged. That's why they exist. We "believe" in the absence of data and facts. For example, I don't "believe" that the earth is round, I don't "believe' that the earth orbits the sun, I don't "believe" that the sun rises and sets every day. I don't have to. These things happen regardless of my belief.
We "believe" in things that we cannot prove or that there is no evidence for... which is why we "believe" in God. Which is why I find having discussions with "believers" difficult. How do you prove the "absence" of Santa? How do you "prove he absence of 'god'?"
Believers will come, but only because they NEED us to believe too, or their beliefs will be challenged. There can be no conversation with that.
Benthoven comments on Jan 7, 2018:
Not altogether that great. Beliefs, by their very nature, create defenses that prevent them from being challenged. That's why they exist. We "believe" in the absence of data and facts. For example, I don't "believe" that the earth is round, I don't "believe' that the earth orbits the sun, I don't "believe" that the sun rises and sets every day. I don't have to. These things happen regardless of my belief.
We "believe" in things that we cannot prove or that there is no evidence for... which is why we "believe" in God. Which is why I find having discussions with "believers" difficult. How do you prove the "absence" of Santa? How do you "prove he absence of 'god'?"
Believers will come, but only because they NEED us to believe too, or their beliefs will be challenged. There can be no conversation with that.
Would Christianity be as popular if Jesus were portrayed more accurately?
Benthoven comments on Jan 7, 2018:
I think it would be WAY more popular. Granted, we're still trying to figure out who Jesus was, but there's one thing that stands out. He was an advocate for the poor, and he saw a universe that valued him... From the time he was at least twelve, Jesus recognized that he was connected to something at such a deep level that it was intimate with him. Jesus recognized it as a father, more than a father, a “daddy.” The Aramaic term he used for his father was “Abba,” which was a term used by a child. Jesus recognized that he was special in this presence. This presence had high hopes for him; but not only himself, others as well. Jesus’ daddy loved us all. Jesus daddy was calling to us, wooing us, taking care of us, always supporting us. Jesus daddy cared deeply about how we were doing in life. Jesus daddy thought of us as his pride and joy.
This is why Jesus got upset, why he railed against the Pharisees, and why he was a thorn in the side of the Roman Empire. It was because they weren’t behaving according to what Jesus recognized not only as HIS Abba, but their daddy too. Jesus wanted to convince them (and us) to look inside, to see the same Universe he saw… that place where love comes from. He wanted us to stand in the presence of our own daddy, and from that place, make our commentary.
He saw God through a Jewish lens, but that's because he was Jewish. I suspect, were he alive today, he would see God through a different lens, but it would still be that sense of connection and relation.
Benthoven comments on Jan 7, 2018:
I think it would be WAY more popular. Granted, we're still trying to figure out who Jesus was, but there's one thing that stands out. He was an advocate for the poor, and he saw a universe that valued him... From the time he was at least twelve, Jesus recognized that he was connected to something at such a deep level that it was intimate with him. Jesus recognized it as a father, more than a father, a “daddy.” The Aramaic term he used for his father was “Abba,” which was a term used by a child. Jesus recognized that he was special in this presence. This presence had high hopes for him; but not only himself, others as well. Jesus’ daddy loved us all. Jesus daddy was calling to us, wooing us, taking care of us, always supporting us. Jesus daddy cared deeply about how we were doing in life. Jesus daddy thought of us as his pride and joy.
This is why Jesus got upset, why he railed against the Pharisees, and why he was a thorn in the side of the Roman Empire. It was because they weren’t behaving according to what Jesus recognized not only as HIS Abba, but their daddy too. Jesus wanted to convince them (and us) to look inside, to see the same Universe he saw… that place where love comes from. He wanted us to stand in the presence of our own daddy, and from that place, make our commentary.
He saw God through a Jewish lens, but that's because he was Jewish. I suspect, were he alive today, he would see God through a different lens, but it would still be that sense of connection and relation.
This afternoon I was informed of my good friend’s death.
Benthoven comments on Jan 7, 2018:
On 10 July, 2017, my brother-in-law was killed in a KC-130 that fell apart over Mississippi. It's been brutal... and that's for me. I've also had to watch my sister suffer, and deal with the fact that she's a widow now and no longer feels connected to life at all. I wish, after this, that I knew how to comfort a fellow traveler in his struggle with grief. But I did read a great book: It's Okay that You're not Okay by Megan Devine.
Be you, be present, and know that even those of us who say stupid things, still love you. We're just struggling to find a way to show that.
My heart goes out to you.
https://www.amazon.com/Its-That-Youre-Not-Understand-ebook/dp/B073XXYKLP/
Benthoven comments on Jan 7, 2018:
On 10 July, 2017, my brother-in-law was killed in a KC-130 that fell apart over Mississippi. It's been brutal... and that's for me. I've also had to watch my sister suffer, and deal with the fact that she's a widow now and no longer feels connected to life at all. I wish, after this, that I knew how to comfort a fellow traveler in his struggle with grief. But I did read a great book: It's Okay that You're not Okay by Megan Devine.
Be you, be present, and know that even those of us who say stupid things, still love you. We're just struggling to find a way to show that.
My heart goes out to you.
https://www.amazon.com/Its-That-Youre-Not-Understand-ebook/dp/B073XXYKLP/
Sexual relationship or relationship with sex?
Benthoven comments on Jan 6, 2018:
I suppose it depends on the guy. I think, though, that there's more going on with your friend than he's letting or, or even that he knows about himself. This isn't about you, it's about him. And that's neither good or bad, it just is. We're looking for people who are comparable with who we are, and for some reason, that seems hard to find. But that doesn't mean it's your fault. It means that you're seeking someone who shares your values.
Benthoven comments on Jan 6, 2018:
I suppose it depends on the guy. I think, though, that there's more going on with your friend than he's letting or, or even that he knows about himself. This isn't about you, it's about him. And that's neither good or bad, it just is. We're looking for people who are comparable with who we are, and for some reason, that seems hard to find. But that doesn't mean it's your fault. It means that you're seeking someone who shares your values.
Well I've only just begun on this wonderful site and the folk on here seem like the right stuff to ...
Benthoven comments on Jan 6, 2018:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p_LEBOhtImA
Benthoven comments on Jan 6, 2018:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p_LEBOhtImA
Stopped at McDonald’s for breakfast before work.
Benthoven comments on Jan 6, 2018:
I was at McDonald's the other day and ordered a vodka. The voice inside told me, "Sir, this is McDonald's." So I'm like... "Hokay... A McVODKA!"
Benthoven comments on Jan 6, 2018:
I was at McDonald's the other day and ordered a vodka. The voice inside told me, "Sir, this is McDonald's." So I'm like... "Hokay... A McVODKA!"
How long do you think until religion is the minority on this planet, or in america
Benthoven comments on Jan 6, 2018:
Well, Stephen Hawking says we've got about a hundred years to find another planet to live on or we're done... So I give religion a little over a hundred years.
Benthoven comments on Jan 6, 2018:
Well, Stephen Hawking says we've got about a hundred years to find another planet to live on or we're done... So I give religion a little over a hundred years.
Do you consider yourself an intellectual elite or just an intellectual?
Benthoven comments on Jan 6, 2018:
Just curious. I want to understand the world around me, and so I read a lot about it.
Benthoven comments on Jan 6, 2018:
Just curious. I want to understand the world around me, and so I read a lot about it.
To whom is consuming these delicious looking meals an abomination ?
Benthoven comments on Jan 6, 2018:
There is one aspect of kosher, especially in regard to meat and poultry that I think is very compassionate.
The Torah requires that meat and poultry be slaughtered in a prescribed manner known as shechita. The trachea and esophagus of the animal are severed with a special razor-sharp, perfectly smooth blade, causing instantaneous death with no pain to the animal.
In a world where we torture our food, I think this is a better way to treat our food.
Benthoven comments on Jan 6, 2018:
There is one aspect of kosher, especially in regard to meat and poultry that I think is very compassionate.
The Torah requires that meat and poultry be slaughtered in a prescribed manner known as shechita. The trachea and esophagus of the animal are severed with a special razor-sharp, perfectly smooth blade, causing instantaneous death with no pain to the animal.
In a world where we torture our food, I think this is a better way to treat our food.
Dating after 50
Benthoven comments on Jan 6, 2018:
I wouldn't know. I couldn't get a date if I were the last man on earth. Mostly because I'm only interested in men, so there's that. But I haven't done a lot of dating. In fact, the only guy to recently ask me out only did so after the telephone pole turned him down.
Benthoven comments on Jan 6, 2018:
I wouldn't know. I couldn't get a date if I were the last man on earth. Mostly because I'm only interested in men, so there's that. But I haven't done a lot of dating. In fact, the only guy to recently ask me out only did so after the telephone pole turned him down.
I gave up religion on 12/25/1966 and never looked back.
Benthoven comments on Jan 6, 2018:
Technically, we don't have a "belief." Beliefs are like apps on a computer. Belief in God is just an app installed on some (most) hard drives that we don't have on ours.
I don't think anyone here is afraid of hell, I think they're just working what is really going on. There's a certain dogma among non-theists that says it's somehow wrong and/or superstitious to consider life's mystery. But many of the posts I read are people doing just that... considering the mystery. And it's mysterious. And it means doing some exploring, checking out the landscape, and considering that "There are more things in heaven and Earth, Horatio, Than are dreamt of in your philosophy."
In the words of the poet: "Life is a mystery / Everyone must stand alone / I hear you call my name / And it feels like home"
Benthoven comments on Jan 6, 2018:
Technically, we don't have a "belief." Beliefs are like apps on a computer. Belief in God is just an app installed on some (most) hard drives that we don't have on ours.
I don't think anyone here is afraid of hell, I think they're just working what is really going on. There's a certain dogma among non-theists that says it's somehow wrong and/or superstitious to consider life's mystery. But many of the posts I read are people doing just that... considering the mystery. And it's mysterious. And it means doing some exploring, checking out the landscape, and considering that "There are more things in heaven and Earth, Horatio, Than are dreamt of in your philosophy."
In the words of the poet: "Life is a mystery / Everyone must stand alone / I hear you call my name / And it feels like home"
Can God create a rock he can't lift? The answer may surprise you!
Benthoven comments on Jan 5, 2018:
Because he couldn't lift it is why he created Rock and ROLL!
Benthoven comments on Jan 5, 2018:
Because he couldn't lift it is why he created Rock and ROLL!
Why is it so hard to realize we are just like any creature that has ever lived on this planet?
Benthoven comments on Jan 5, 2018:
Is it really hypocrisy to suggest that we simply don't have any way of knowing what's beyond us? We accept the "null" hypothesis for now, but that's because we can't measure anything beyond our physical bodies when it comes to "us." After all, we're star stuff.
We are a way for the universe to know itself. Some part of our being knows this is where we came from. We long to return. And we can, because the cosmos is also within us. We're made of star stuff,
~ Carl Sagan
The carbon, nitrogen and oxygen atoms in our bodies were created in previous generations of stars over 4.5 billion years ago. Humans and animals contain these elements. So something moves on. A star dies, and we're its legacy.
Benthoven comments on Jan 5, 2018:
Is it really hypocrisy to suggest that we simply don't have any way of knowing what's beyond us? We accept the "null" hypothesis for now, but that's because we can't measure anything beyond our physical bodies when it comes to "us." After all, we're star stuff.
We are a way for the universe to know itself. Some part of our being knows this is where we came from. We long to return. And we can, because the cosmos is also within us. We're made of star stuff,
~ Carl Sagan
The carbon, nitrogen and oxygen atoms in our bodies were created in previous generations of stars over 4.5 billion years ago. Humans and animals contain these elements. So something moves on. A star dies, and we're its legacy.
I was asked if I’ve talked to Jesus today.
Benthoven comments on Jan 5, 2018:
I usually say, "Sure, he asked me if he could come inside me." I took one look at those abs and said, "Oh yes, please!"
Benthoven comments on Jan 5, 2018:
I usually say, "Sure, he asked me if he could come inside me." I took one look at those abs and said, "Oh yes, please!"
Reading this morning that Harvard University recently did a study that determined that people who ...
Benthoven comments on Jan 5, 2018:
I say, "What the hell...." Why not give it a try?
Benthoven comments on Jan 5, 2018:
I say, "What the hell...." Why not give it a try?
Why are so many people still OK with the abhorrent practice of male genital mutilation ...
Benthoven comments on Jan 5, 2018:
I see people with pierced nipples, pierced balls, tattoos... those could all be considered mutilation to those who don't like it. So I don't think "mutilation" is a fair word here.
I understand that the next comment will be, "Yes, but that's their choice." And I agree. Ideally, it would be best if the baby could decide for himself, but when is the last time anything on earth was "ideal"? That being said, parents get a little bit of leeway in how they raise their kids. After all, it will be well over a decade before that child will be able to make most decisions regarding their own persons. Their parent choose where they live, where they go to school, what religion they're born into, their diets, who they play with... even how long their hair is going to be. Parents are also going to make medical decisions, like medications the child will take, what medical procedures the child will participate in, their nutrition (or lack thereof), and a whole plethora of other issues that fall the to parent to decide...
It's not "God" who initiated this. Circumcision was around long before the Hebrew God. It's been practice by many cultures, including the Egyptians and other Semitic tribes. It's been used to represent the passage into manhood, the boy becoming a warrior, making the man ready for marriage and other rituals.
I feel like this issue has become a proxy war against ancient practices that still linger today.
Benthoven comments on Jan 5, 2018:
I see people with pierced nipples, pierced balls, tattoos... those could all be considered mutilation to those who don't like it. So I don't think "mutilation" is a fair word here.
I understand that the next comment will be, "Yes, but that's their choice." And I agree. Ideally, it would be best if the baby could decide for himself, but when is the last time anything on earth was "ideal"? That being said, parents get a little bit of leeway in how they raise their kids. After all, it will be well over a decade before that child will be able to make most decisions regarding their own persons. Their parent choose where they live, where they go to school, what religion they're born into, their diets, who they play with... even how long their hair is going to be. Parents are also going to make medical decisions, like medications the child will take, what medical procedures the child will participate in, their nutrition (or lack thereof), and a whole plethora of other issues that fall the to parent to decide...
It's not "God" who initiated this. Circumcision was around long before the Hebrew God. It's been practice by many cultures, including the Egyptians and other Semitic tribes. It's been used to represent the passage into manhood, the boy becoming a warrior, making the man ready for marriage and other rituals.
I feel like this issue has become a proxy war against ancient practices that still linger today.
Badly describe your hobby.
Benthoven comments on Jan 5, 2018:
I sic ghosts and vampires on innocent, unsuspecting victims.
Benthoven comments on Jan 5, 2018:
I sic ghosts and vampires on innocent, unsuspecting victims.
I recently argued with a woman at a New Year's party about what was more painful, giving birth or ...
Benthoven comments on Jan 5, 2018:
So I'm going to go with the lady. Women want the "baby," not the pain. I understand that in their case, the pain actually leads to something, which is not the case with being kicked in the jingle-berries, still I suspect that peeing a bowling ball would be far worse than getting kicked in the jingle-jangles.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gCNTpNtK3-g
Benthoven comments on Jan 5, 2018:
So I'm going to go with the lady. Women want the "baby," not the pain. I understand that in their case, the pain actually leads to something, which is not the case with being kicked in the jingle-berries, still I suspect that peeing a bowling ball would be far worse than getting kicked in the jingle-jangles.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gCNTpNtK3-g
If you were having a marriage ceremony, is there a specific style that would influence you?
Benthoven comments on Jan 5, 2018:
I think I want a fancy wedding like this one.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_bY0fdgpISc
Benthoven comments on Jan 5, 2018:
I think I want a fancy wedding like this one.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_bY0fdgpISc
I am going to share something.
Benthoven comments on Jan 4, 2018:
How's it working out?
Benthoven comments on Jan 4, 2018:
How's it working out?
What are your thoughts on THE SECRET?
Benthoven comments on Jan 4, 2018:
I think it is one of the most foul and fetid works ever written. It's the ultimate "blame the victim" book. Did you get cancer? Well, it's your fault, you attracted it. Were you raped? You attracted that. In fact, you and your abuser "made an agreement" before coming here. Is there suffering in the world? Well, that's because you're attracting that suffering.
And it gets worse. The author of this book, whose name I refuse to mention, recommends that we "avoid negative people (aka people in negative situations)" so we aren't brought down by their negativity.
In the meantime, she's made gobs of money from the very people who needed to hear truth instead of a fairy tale scenario that cannot exist in a world where "stuff happens."
Benthoven comments on Jan 4, 2018:
I think it is one of the most foul and fetid works ever written. It's the ultimate "blame the victim" book. Did you get cancer? Well, it's your fault, you attracted it. Were you raped? You attracted that. In fact, you and your abuser "made an agreement" before coming here. Is there suffering in the world? Well, that's because you're attracting that suffering.
And it gets worse. The author of this book, whose name I refuse to mention, recommends that we "avoid negative people (aka people in negative situations)" so we aren't brought down by their negativity.
In the meantime, she's made gobs of money from the very people who needed to hear truth instead of a fairy tale scenario that cannot exist in a world where "stuff happens."
SEX!!! SEX!!! SEX!!!
How many of you clicked this post just because of that?
Benthoven comments on Jan 4, 2018:
Friend: I beg to differ...
Ben: Well I beg for sex, what's your point?
Benthoven comments on Jan 4, 2018:
Friend: I beg to differ...
Ben: Well I beg for sex, what's your point?
SEX!!! SEX!!! SEX!!!
How many of you clicked this post just because of that?
Benthoven comments on Jan 4, 2018:
I think you should wait to have sex. I didn't have sex until I was nineteen. I didn't know about it until I was twenty-three.
Benthoven comments on Jan 4, 2018:
I think you should wait to have sex. I didn't have sex until I was nineteen. I didn't know about it until I was twenty-three.
Do you believe in Santa Claus?
Benthoven comments on Jan 4, 2018:
Yes, I believe in Santa... or rather the "idea" of Santa. Just like I believe in the idea of Harry Potter and the concept of the gods.
Beliefs are created in the absence of facts and data, so the only way we'll ever experience Santa, or magic, or time travel... is to "believe. That belief allows us to revel in those stories, while at the same time learning from them metaphorically.
As a writer, I write about demons, ghosts, vampires... all imaginary creatures. I know they're imaginary, but I "believe" in the stories. That's what stories are for, and it's why we create them.
Benthoven comments on Jan 4, 2018:
Yes, I believe in Santa... or rather the "idea" of Santa. Just like I believe in the idea of Harry Potter and the concept of the gods.
Beliefs are created in the absence of facts and data, so the only way we'll ever experience Santa, or magic, or time travel... is to "believe. That belief allows us to revel in those stories, while at the same time learning from them metaphorically.
As a writer, I write about demons, ghosts, vampires... all imaginary creatures. I know they're imaginary, but I "believe" in the stories. That's what stories are for, and it's why we create them.
What is your debating style?
Benthoven comments on Jan 4, 2018:
I rarely debate with Christians since they're really just trying to convert me. Once they realize that isn't possible, then they just want to be on their way.
However, I've noticed the same with some atheists. Some atheists are so terrified of anything "god" they can't eve capitalize it as a proper noun. Debating with them can be just as useless. They have that same dogmatic, making even a conversation difficult to have.
Benthoven comments on Jan 4, 2018:
I rarely debate with Christians since they're really just trying to convert me. Once they realize that isn't possible, then they just want to be on their way.
However, I've noticed the same with some atheists. Some atheists are so terrified of anything "god" they can't eve capitalize it as a proper noun. Debating with them can be just as useless. They have that same dogmatic, making even a conversation difficult to have.
Is the brain hardwired for religion? | HowStuffWorks
Benthoven comments on Jan 4, 2018:
The fact that we have sought "gods" since we first became conscious, suggests that religion is our default program. The fact that we still contend with it in the light of all this science and technology, again suggests that it's a go-to response to the world around us... just like fear. Fear is still our go-to response when something goes wrong. The fact is, we're storytelling animals, and religion provides a comforting story. Somehow we need to find a new story that we can live into. One that allows us to grow into this new era we've reached.
Benthoven comments on Jan 4, 2018:
The fact that we have sought "gods" since we first became conscious, suggests that religion is our default program. The fact that we still contend with it in the light of all this science and technology, again suggests that it's a go-to response to the world around us... just like fear. Fear is still our go-to response when something goes wrong. The fact is, we're storytelling animals, and religion provides a comforting story. Somehow we need to find a new story that we can live into. One that allows us to grow into this new era we've reached.
Stephen Hawking stated that mankind will not last beyond 100 years.
Benthoven comments on Jan 4, 2018:
It's not like we don't deserve it.
Benthoven comments on Jan 4, 2018:
It's not like we don't deserve it.
The fact that there are more women joining this site gives me hope.
Benthoven comments on Jan 4, 2018:
I've been looking for a "man of God" for a long time. Of course the God I'm talking about is Adonis.
Benthoven comments on Jan 4, 2018:
I've been looking for a "man of God" for a long time. Of course the God I'm talking about is Adonis.
Cemeteries, creepy, or peaceful?
Benthoven comments on Jan 2, 2018:
My brother-in-law is buried in Arlington Cemetery. There, I feel a sense of peace, and comradery. I do not feel afraid, or even nervous. I do wish that there were some way I could know more about the people there, and their stories.
Benthoven comments on Jan 2, 2018:
My brother-in-law is buried in Arlington Cemetery. There, I feel a sense of peace, and comradery. I do not feel afraid, or even nervous. I do wish that there were some way I could know more about the people there, and their stories.
I have to admit I'm a little disappointed with how many people are on here talking about religion.
Benthoven comments on Jan 2, 2018:
Agnostic: a person who believes that nothing is known or can be known of the existence or nature of God.
Atheist: a person who lacks belief in the existence of God or gods.
Religion: the belief in and worship of a superhuman controlling power, especially a personal God or gods.
So, as you can see, the very name implies that this is EXACTLY what we're talking about.
Benthoven comments on Jan 2, 2018:
Agnostic: a person who believes that nothing is known or can be known of the existence or nature of God.
Atheist: a person who lacks belief in the existence of God or gods.
Religion: the belief in and worship of a superhuman controlling power, especially a personal God or gods.
So, as you can see, the very name implies that this is EXACTLY what we're talking about.
Do you still have a problem writing god, church, bible, etc, with small letters?
Benthoven comments on Jan 2, 2018:
When I'm referring to any god as a proper noun, then I capitalize it. If I'm talking about a specific deity, such as GOD... yes. If Church is used as a proper noun, i.e. The First Church of the Church that didn't feel like a Church, then Yes. If I'm talking about a generic church, then no. If I'm referring to the collection of holy books in the Christian and Jewish faith, then I capitalize Bible. If the word in in a title, "The Nose Piercer's Bible..." Then I capitalize Bible. But if I'm talking about bible in it's generic form, such as, "this is the nose piercer's bible, you should read it... " then no.
It's simple grammar, and I'm not going to stop using grammar correctly because I'm afraid of a letter.
Benthoven comments on Jan 2, 2018:
When I'm referring to any god as a proper noun, then I capitalize it. If I'm talking about a specific deity, such as GOD... yes. If Church is used as a proper noun, i.e. The First Church of the Church that didn't feel like a Church, then Yes. If I'm talking about a generic church, then no. If I'm referring to the collection of holy books in the Christian and Jewish faith, then I capitalize Bible. If the word in in a title, "The Nose Piercer's Bible..." Then I capitalize Bible. But if I'm talking about bible in it's generic form, such as, "this is the nose piercer's bible, you should read it... " then no.
It's simple grammar, and I'm not going to stop using grammar correctly because I'm afraid of a letter.
What is god?
Benthoven comments on Jan 2, 2018:
Or as the saying goes: Jesus loves you... but his DAD is trying to kill you.
Benthoven comments on Jan 2, 2018:
Or as the saying goes: Jesus loves you... but his DAD is trying to kill you.
If you found yourself standing on Judgement day, what would you have to say to God?
Benthoven comments on Jan 2, 2018:
Standing where?
Benthoven comments on Jan 2, 2018:
Standing where?
Can being gay be a choice? Is it possible to teach yourself to be gay?
Benthoven comments on Jan 2, 2018:
If it could be taught, I'd be headed up that course.
Benthoven comments on Jan 2, 2018:
If it could be taught, I'd be headed up that course.
Does anyone have thoughts on the relationship between free choice/thought and predetermined "plans" ...
Benthoven comments on Jan 2, 2018:
I don't think there's any such thing as "free will." We don't choose to be born, we don't choose our gender, our sexuality, our family, our location, the times in which we will live, or the opportunities that will or will not come to us. We have "some" choice, but the challenge is figuring what what we can control, what we can't control, and what we can do in the midst of those parameters.
Benthoven comments on Jan 2, 2018:
I don't think there's any such thing as "free will." We don't choose to be born, we don't choose our gender, our sexuality, our family, our location, the times in which we will live, or the opportunities that will or will not come to us. We have "some" choice, but the challenge is figuring what what we can control, what we can't control, and what we can do in the midst of those parameters.
How does your mind deal with the concept of “nothing.
Benthoven comments on Jan 2, 2018:
I don't think it's possible to ponder "nothing." And I don't "don't believe" in an afterlife (sorry, I couldn't think of a better way to say it). Everything that we know about "us" happens in the mind, so it makes sense that whatever is "us" would cease to exist if there were no mind to create that. However, we've yet to be able to measure beyond death. So for now, it's the "null" hypothesis, and that's where I am. I accept the "null" hypothesis, but I still wonder what might or might not happen once the mind and body stop functioning.
https://www.livescience.com/28132-what-is-nothing-physicists-debate.html
Benthoven comments on Jan 2, 2018:
I don't think it's possible to ponder "nothing." And I don't "don't believe" in an afterlife (sorry, I couldn't think of a better way to say it). Everything that we know about "us" happens in the mind, so it makes sense that whatever is "us" would cease to exist if there were no mind to create that. However, we've yet to be able to measure beyond death. So for now, it's the "null" hypothesis, and that's where I am. I accept the "null" hypothesis, but I still wonder what might or might not happen once the mind and body stop functioning.
https://www.livescience.com/28132-what-is-nothing-physicists-debate.html
Can one be an agnostic theist?
Benthoven comments on Jan 2, 2018:
I think it depends on how you define "God." I do not think that one can be agnostic and believe in the "Christian" God, or Allah, or Jehovah... or even the New Age God. But if you define the idea of God more "generally," then maybe.
Benthoven comments on Jan 2, 2018:
I think it depends on how you define "God." I do not think that one can be agnostic and believe in the "Christian" God, or Allah, or Jehovah... or even the New Age God. But if you define the idea of God more "generally," then maybe.
I have to admit I'm a little disappointed with how many people are on here talking about religion.
Benthoven comments on Jan 2, 2018:
In all fairness, religion is all around us, like water to a fish. It's in our government, it's in our laws, and it's currently attacking our Constitution. It's flying planes into buildings, burning up buildings, killing doctors, attacking women's right to healthcare, going after the LGBTQ community, passing laws making it illegal for some people to pee in a public restroom, trying to censure what news and information is allowed to be disseminated... And that's just the top of the list. It goes even further than that. So it makes sense that there's going to be a lot of talk about religion.
Benthoven comments on Jan 2, 2018:
In all fairness, religion is all around us, like water to a fish. It's in our government, it's in our laws, and it's currently attacking our Constitution. It's flying planes into buildings, burning up buildings, killing doctors, attacking women's right to healthcare, going after the LGBTQ community, passing laws making it illegal for some people to pee in a public restroom, trying to censure what news and information is allowed to be disseminated... And that's just the top of the list. It goes even further than that. So it makes sense that there's going to be a lot of talk about religion.
Some Tuesday humor for ya...
not disparaging our firemen and women. ;)
Benthoven comments on Jan 2, 2018:
Still, have you SEEN those firemen? Who could resist a swoon so they'll carry you out to "safety."
Benthoven comments on Jan 2, 2018:
Still, have you SEEN those firemen? Who could resist a swoon so they'll carry you out to "safety."
When should anatomy/health/sex education be introduced into a child’s life?
Benthoven comments on Jan 2, 2018:
I suspect that it would depend on the child, the child's parents, and the circumstances that child lives with... especially the community in which that child lives. That's what makes it tricky trying to teach it in schools. Still, those things are presented to children pretty early on... television, videos, games, and of course, friends. So as soon as they start talking about it, it's probably the right time to start teaching.
Benthoven comments on Jan 2, 2018:
I suspect that it would depend on the child, the child's parents, and the circumstances that child lives with... especially the community in which that child lives. That's what makes it tricky trying to teach it in schools. Still, those things are presented to children pretty early on... television, videos, games, and of course, friends. So as soon as they start talking about it, it's probably the right time to start teaching.
I want everyone to think logically and realize that God, religion, and other deities are made up ...
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
I've never been told how to think by another non-theist. This is a first.
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
I've never been told how to think by another non-theist. This is a first.
Do you think that some atheists have the same blind devotion to science as they do to religion?
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
First of all, I don't think atheists have blind devotion to religion. Second, I'm not entirely sure atheists know much more about science as their religious counterparts. Even on this site you see people who call themselves atheist who espouse the ideals of Depak Chopra, Tony Robbins, Wayne Dyer...
A lot of people I run across can easily answer most of the simple questions about things like holistic medicine, vaccinations, flat earth... but there's still a large gap in what they actually do understand scientifically. In fairness, it's true of us all, but it's those who consider that they know far more than they do.
As Socratic paradox goes: "The only thing I know, is that I know nothing." That realization is the beginning of wisdom, and that's the real reason science exists... because of our deep and yearning desire to "know."
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
First of all, I don't think atheists have blind devotion to religion. Second, I'm not entirely sure atheists know much more about science as their religious counterparts. Even on this site you see people who call themselves atheist who espouse the ideals of Depak Chopra, Tony Robbins, Wayne Dyer...
A lot of people I run across can easily answer most of the simple questions about things like holistic medicine, vaccinations, flat earth... but there's still a large gap in what they actually do understand scientifically. In fairness, it's true of us all, but it's those who consider that they know far more than they do.
As Socratic paradox goes: "The only thing I know, is that I know nothing." That realization is the beginning of wisdom, and that's the real reason science exists... because of our deep and yearning desire to "know."
Is there any youtube channel you would recommend for the topic of atheism?
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
I like this guy: The Friendly Atheist.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUTBvu9NrpVQFiICTu3-dvw
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ze0PHCMHa1s
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
I like this guy: The Friendly Atheist.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUTBvu9NrpVQFiICTu3-dvw
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ze0PHCMHa1s
Did you ever dream about something and it came to fruition?
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
I sometimes dream about everyday life things in such a way that when I'm out and about, I have weird feelings of deja vu. But then I remember that I had a dream that took place in that coffee shop, or I dreamt about work the other day...
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
I sometimes dream about everyday life things in such a way that when I'm out and about, I have weird feelings of deja vu. But then I remember that I had a dream that took place in that coffee shop, or I dreamt about work the other day...
I have a fun (if you don't mind awkward) social experiment.
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
If someone sneezes more than three times, I joke that I've only got one more blessing left, and after that, they'll have to put them on back-order.
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
If someone sneezes more than three times, I joke that I've only got one more blessing left, and after that, they'll have to put them on back-order.
Why does it seem that some people are harder to brainwash than others?
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
I do think there's a genetic component to strong minded people, but I also think that nature and nurture play huge roles. Those who have learned how to reason, who embrace education, who make it a point to find multiple sources before they react, and who will allow their beliefs to be challenged by evidence tend to be more "immune" to brain washing than those who don't.
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
I do think there's a genetic component to strong minded people, but I also think that nature and nurture play huge roles. Those who have learned how to reason, who embrace education, who make it a point to find multiple sources before they react, and who will allow their beliefs to be challenged by evidence tend to be more "immune" to brain washing than those who don't.
GOP's love of Jesus real?
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
The Party of Jesus, AKA, the GOP, have nothing but contempt for Jesus. We know this by the way they talk about poor people, health care, and those who suffer in the United States. HOWEVER, Christ, the antisemitic Hellenistic deity created by Paul is very popular among the GOP.
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
The Party of Jesus, AKA, the GOP, have nothing but contempt for Jesus. We know this by the way they talk about poor people, health care, and those who suffer in the United States. HOWEVER, Christ, the antisemitic Hellenistic deity created by Paul is very popular among the GOP.
Which sports/activities do you enjoy?
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
I don't remember what it's called, but I know it involved a ball.
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
I don't remember what it's called, but I know it involved a ball.
Can you recommend a new hobby to me?
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
Have you tried taxidermy? I hear it's a great way to make new friends and hang onto the old ones long after they're gone.
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
Have you tried taxidermy? I hear it's a great way to make new friends and hang onto the old ones long after they're gone.
I've had my share with religious women—trust me!
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
Heaven must have sent you. I always knew God had it out for me.
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
Heaven must have sent you. I always knew God had it out for me.
Do you taunt the religious?
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
It depends. If we're having a serious and respectful talk, then no. But if they're coming after me to convert me, or express disdain for who I am, then let the taunting begin. I've been around Christianity for so long that I've built up quiet a repertoire.
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
It depends. If we're having a serious and respectful talk, then no. But if they're coming after me to convert me, or express disdain for who I am, then let the taunting begin. I've been around Christianity for so long that I've built up quiet a repertoire.
I am an aspiring Sci-fi novelist.
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
I also am an author. Ghosts, vampires, and other occult themed stories. I don't believe in any of these, but that's not the point. I believe in the "story," and I love the stories and concepts that go with it. I loved Joseph Campbell growing up, and paid close attention to how important mythology was to our evolution as a species. We are the story.
I don't control my characters. They have their own personalities. So if I have a character that "believes" in something I don't, then as a writer, I owe it to that character to be who they are, whether I like them or not. I've always said that the story comes "through" me, it's influenced by me, but at some point it takes on its own persona, and at that point, it's up to me to let it make its own way.
It's impossible to take "me" out of it, but it's not impossible to carefully consider what each character may be thinking, feeling, experiencing, apart from my beliefs... or lack thereof, and give them that freedom to move. If I'm successful, I have three-dimensional characters with intriguing stories to tell. If I'm not... well... let's just say that I've had to put those stories aside until they decide to give me some added guidance on how to proceed.
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
I also am an author. Ghosts, vampires, and other occult themed stories. I don't believe in any of these, but that's not the point. I believe in the "story," and I love the stories and concepts that go with it. I loved Joseph Campbell growing up, and paid close attention to how important mythology was to our evolution as a species. We are the story.
I don't control my characters. They have their own personalities. So if I have a character that "believes" in something I don't, then as a writer, I owe it to that character to be who they are, whether I like them or not. I've always said that the story comes "through" me, it's influenced by me, but at some point it takes on its own persona, and at that point, it's up to me to let it make its own way.
It's impossible to take "me" out of it, but it's not impossible to carefully consider what each character may be thinking, feeling, experiencing, apart from my beliefs... or lack thereof, and give them that freedom to move. If I'm successful, I have three-dimensional characters with intriguing stories to tell. If I'm not... well... let's just say that I've had to put those stories aside until they decide to give me some added guidance on how to proceed.
Who would have a better Instagram, Jesus or Muhammad
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
Well, Muhammad wasn't allowed to show his face, whereas Jesus was quite the partier. He'd be putting up pictures like, "Just turned water into wine... party gonna be OFF THE HOOOOOOOOKIKKKKK!"
Or, "HEY, check me out... walkin' on water. Pete totally tried, and then freaked out. OMG!"
"Looks like I'm carrying my own cross tomorrow. Totes bummed!"
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
Well, Muhammad wasn't allowed to show his face, whereas Jesus was quite the partier. He'd be putting up pictures like, "Just turned water into wine... party gonna be OFF THE HOOOOOOOOKIKKKKK!"
Or, "HEY, check me out... walkin' on water. Pete totally tried, and then freaked out. OMG!"
"Looks like I'm carrying my own cross tomorrow. Totes bummed!"
“The banana is the atheists nightmare "
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
I don't know, I think bananas are probably natures way of turning us on. Most men I know like watching women eating bananas, and as a gay man, A guy with a banana can be a real turn on. NO nightmare here.
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
I don't know, I think bananas are probably natures way of turning us on. Most men I know like watching women eating bananas, and as a gay man, A guy with a banana can be a real turn on. NO nightmare here.
Rate your level of Kinkiness from 0 to 5
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
So most of my friends use the feathers... I use the birds... does that make me kinkier?
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
So most of my friends use the feathers... I use the birds... does that make me kinkier?
Why is it that you never see atheists/agnostics killing each other over who's disbelief is the ...
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
I know, right? What's up with that. Someone's not pulling their weight.
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
I know, right? What's up with that. Someone's not pulling their weight.
Why are Millennials Leaving Christianity? Fox News Has No Idea.
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
Fox "news!" Where the "N" stands for noweldge.
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
Fox "news!" Where the "N" stands for noweldge.
Why are Millennials Leaving Christianity? Fox News Has No Idea.
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
So I was watching Fox "news" because I'm a thinker. I actually have a satellite dish so that I can see Bill Reilly in the original German.
~ John Fuglesang
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
So I was watching Fox "news" because I'm a thinker. I actually have a satellite dish so that I can see Bill Reilly in the original German.
~ John Fuglesang
When we die we are generally either burnt into a fine ash or we are buried and decompose.
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
Now when I die
Now don't think I'm a nut
Don't want no fancy funeral
Just one like Old King Tut
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
Now when I die
Now don't think I'm a nut
Don't want no fancy funeral
Just one like Old King Tut
Fellow agnostics, how do you feel about believers joining?
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
I have not had the chance to encounter a "believer" on this site (thank 'god'), but I'm inclined to believe that those who are joining are simply trolls, trying to convert... the completely unprepared since most of the people here know more about the bible than they do.
I'm often told that "the reason you don't believe in God is that you haven't read the bible."
I respond by saying, "No! The reason you believe in God is that YOU haven't read the bible."
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
I have not had the chance to encounter a "believer" on this site (thank 'god'), but I'm inclined to believe that those who are joining are simply trolls, trying to convert... the completely unprepared since most of the people here know more about the bible than they do.
I'm often told that "the reason you don't believe in God is that you haven't read the bible."
I respond by saying, "No! The reason you believe in God is that YOU haven't read the bible."
What, not who, makes life worth living?
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
Maybe?
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
Maybe?
What has been the dumbest religious comment/response/statement you have ever heard personally?
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
That's what I love about these people. They're so sure of things they know nothing about.
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
That's what I love about these people. They're so sure of things they know nothing about.
Should we be making plans for "when the shit hits the fan?
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
If it all goes that bad, I see no reason to stick around. Seriously. I hope though, that we will evolve emotionally, and that we will move past our baser instincts and become something bigger and better that can make its way past this dystopia currently riding in the sidecar of our wild ride.
Benthoven comments on Dec 31, 2017:
If it all goes that bad, I see no reason to stick around. Seriously. I hope though, that we will evolve emotionally, and that we will move past our baser instincts and become something bigger and better that can make its way past this dystopia currently riding in the sidecar of our wild ride.
Which do you think has achieved more for society - Philosophy or Science.?
Benthoven comments on Dec 30, 2017:
Well, we can see the results of science. This computer for example. The Internet. Medicine, travel, space, cities, television... These all happened because of science. I don't think philosophy would have the same affect.
Benthoven comments on Dec 30, 2017:
Well, we can see the results of science. This computer for example. The Internet. Medicine, travel, space, cities, television... These all happened because of science. I don't think philosophy would have the same affect.
Are there any entertaining men out there?
Benthoven comments on Dec 30, 2017:
Hey, they don't call me “Benjamin the Great” for nothing. Actually, they don't call me Benjamin the Great. They don't call me Benjamin... nor do they call me Great... I've been called "the" sometimes, but... um... I'm sorry what were we talking about?
Benthoven comments on Dec 30, 2017:
Hey, they don't call me “Benjamin the Great” for nothing. Actually, they don't call me Benjamin the Great. They don't call me Benjamin... nor do they call me Great... I've been called "the" sometimes, but... um... I'm sorry what were we talking about?
11 Fast Facts about Christianity:
1.
Benthoven comments on Dec 30, 2017:
Now if we could only get them to read the book... That might get them to back off trying to be all self-righteous about stuff they don't even know about.
Benthoven comments on Dec 30, 2017:
Now if we could only get them to read the book... That might get them to back off trying to be all self-righteous about stuff they don't even know about.
Does all life have inherent value?
Benthoven comments on Dec 30, 2017:
Some life has worth... it provides food for species higher on the food chain. But other than that, does any life have worth? Who or what determines that?
We give life value, but with what authority? We value polar bears, koalas, pandas, and elephants, but don't worry too much about the opossum, rabbits, squirrels... in fact, we call them rodents and consider them a pest to be gotten rid of.
The Universe certainly doesn't care. Thousands of babies die before they're born. Baby turtles are tortured while trying to make their way to the ocean. Earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes, freezing weather, fires, super hot weather... they all take lives indiscriminately.
That being said, I don't think I could personally handle having to make that choice for any creature, especially a person. I can't imagine that a day would go by that I would question myself or second-guess what I did.
Benthoven comments on Dec 30, 2017:
Some life has worth... it provides food for species higher on the food chain. But other than that, does any life have worth? Who or what determines that?
We give life value, but with what authority? We value polar bears, koalas, pandas, and elephants, but don't worry too much about the opossum, rabbits, squirrels... in fact, we call them rodents and consider them a pest to be gotten rid of.
The Universe certainly doesn't care. Thousands of babies die before they're born. Baby turtles are tortured while trying to make their way to the ocean. Earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes, freezing weather, fires, super hot weather... they all take lives indiscriminately.
That being said, I don't think I could personally handle having to make that choice for any creature, especially a person. I can't imagine that a day would go by that I would question myself or second-guess what I did.
My dads entire life he was an Atheist.
Benthoven comments on Dec 30, 2017:
I think that baptizing someone against their will is pretty despicable, especially when it's done at a time with the person being baptized doesn't have the conscious ability to agree or disagree. For those who claim to believe in "free will," this is profoundly antagonist to everything Jesus taught, which suggests that she does not believe what she said she believed, and was willing to get what she wanted through any means necessary.
Benthoven comments on Dec 30, 2017:
I think that baptizing someone against their will is pretty despicable, especially when it's done at a time with the person being baptized doesn't have the conscious ability to agree or disagree. For those who claim to believe in "free will," this is profoundly antagonist to everything Jesus taught, which suggests that she does not believe what she said she believed, and was willing to get what she wanted through any means necessary.
I was told, by a scholarly friend, that there were Christian sects that split over an inability to ...
Benthoven comments on Dec 30, 2017:
I look at God like this: In the Old Testament, he was an alcoholic father. When he was sober, he was loving and tender, but when he was on a bender, it was hell fire, brimstone, and whatever plagues were at his disposal at that moment.
In the New Testament he's sobered up, and he's trying to make amends.
And then in Revelation, he has a relapse and is back to his old self.
Benthoven comments on Dec 30, 2017:
I look at God like this: In the Old Testament, he was an alcoholic father. When he was sober, he was loving and tender, but when he was on a bender, it was hell fire, brimstone, and whatever plagues were at his disposal at that moment.
In the New Testament he's sobered up, and he's trying to make amends.
And then in Revelation, he has a relapse and is back to his old self.
So I was raised in a Catholic house, I often have to deal with the baptism speech, how if I don't ...
Benthoven comments on Dec 30, 2017:
I've never understood the Catholic version of baptism. Jesus was dunked under the water, a cold and muddy river that fish did their business in. If you're going to do baptism, do it the way it was intended to be done.
Benthoven comments on Dec 30, 2017:
I've never understood the Catholic version of baptism. Jesus was dunked under the water, a cold and muddy river that fish did their business in. If you're going to do baptism, do it the way it was intended to be done.
Should we create a lexicon for words that can replace common expressions like OMG, with a ...
Benthoven comments on Dec 30, 2017:
Um... No! Why would we? That sounds an awful lot to me like the same mentality that leads to banning books. Censorship is always ugly, no matter who does it.
Benthoven comments on Dec 30, 2017:
Um... No! Why would we? That sounds an awful lot to me like the same mentality that leads to banning books. Censorship is always ugly, no matter who does it.
Personally, Was 2017 A Good Year For You Or A Bad Year? Explain Why.
Benthoven comments on Dec 30, 2017:
I would say it was the worst year of my life. I lost my brother-in-law was one of 16 Marines, nine from his base, horrifically killed when his C-130 blew apart over Mississippi. That was nine people we hung out with, partied with, and in Brendan's case, worked with.
Because it was a national story, I had to read conspiracy theories about what happened, misinformation, even from supposedly reliably news sources, and some of the most horrific comments from some of the most horrific people on earth.
People drove past her house at weird hours (we weren't sure if they were press or something else), we were inundated with phone calls from people just wanting to "get a scoop" at Brendan's expense. But the police stepped in and added extra patrols. The city made Brendan's birthday "Brendan Johnson Day." All of those were nice gestures.
Brendan's life insurance refused to pay on his claim because Brendan was killed during a military accident. We contacted an attorney, and suddenly the insurance company decided to pay out.
We fought with banks, phone companies, military red tape.
We made three trips to Arlington National Cemetery. One to bury others, one to bury him, and another for the Wreath Ceremony.
I lost my job and burned through savings, and spent countless hours wondering just how much worse things could get.
But that's just me. I've had to watch my sister, with whom I'm very close, suffer... every day, dealing with all this legal crap, but also with the very new reality that she's alone, and her best friend is gone forever. I have to watch her. I can't say anything that will help, I can't do anything to make things better. Since his death in July, we celebrated his birthday in August, Halloween (He made it great for the neighborhood kids), Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year tomorrow, and my sister's birthday on the Fourth of January.
Yet there has been one friend of my sister who has be miraculous, and I don't think she would have made it without this friend. So I am grateful, while extremely sad.
One of the biggest ironies of the story was that while he was alive, Brendan taunted me about living in New Jersey. Even though I lived in New York and worked in Jersey, he kept saying that I was living in Jersey because he knew it made me crazy. So when he died, and we were wondering where to bury him, it occurred to me, "Bury him in New Jersey." Brendan would have hated being buried in NJ, but he would have loved the joke.
Benthoven comments on Dec 30, 2017:
I would say it was the worst year of my life. I lost my brother-in-law was one of 16 Marines, nine from his base, horrifically killed when his C-130 blew apart over Mississippi. That was nine people we hung out with, partied with, and in Brendan's case, worked with.
Because it was a national story, I had to read conspiracy theories about what happened, misinformation, even from supposedly reliably news sources, and some of the most horrific comments from some of the most horrific people on earth.
People drove past her house at weird hours (we weren't sure if they were press or something else), we were inundated with phone calls from people just wanting to "get a scoop" at Brendan's expense. But the police stepped in and added extra patrols. The city made Brendan's birthday "Brendan Johnson Day." All of those were nice gestures.
Brendan's life insurance refused to pay on his claim because Brendan was killed during a military accident. We contacted an attorney, and suddenly the insurance company decided to pay out.
We fought with banks, phone companies, military red tape.
We made three trips to Arlington National Cemetery. One to bury others, one to bury him, and another for the Wreath Ceremony.
I lost my job and burned through savings, and spent countless hours wondering just how much worse things could get.
But that's just me. I've had to watch my sister, with whom I'm very close, suffer... every day, dealing with all this legal crap, but also with the very new reality that she's alone, and her best friend is gone forever. I have to watch her. I can't say anything that will help, I can't do anything to make things better. Since his death in July, we celebrated his birthday in August, Halloween (He made it great for the neighborhood kids), Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year tomorrow, and my sister's birthday on the Fourth of January.
Yet there has been one friend of my sister who has be miraculous, and I don't think she would have made it without this friend. So I am grateful, while extremely sad.
One of the biggest ironies of the story was that while he was alive, Brendan taunted me about living in New Jersey. Even though I lived in New York and worked in Jersey, he kept saying that I was living in Jersey because he knew it made me crazy. So when he died, and we were wondering where to bury him, it occurred to me, "Bury him in New Jersey." Brendan would have hated being buried in NJ, but he would have loved the joke.
So the President thinks global warming is good. I wish this whole 1st year was really a sitcom.
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
I wish that there was such a thing as karma... and that the greatest threats to humanity would one day have to answer for their evilness...
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
I wish that there was such a thing as karma... and that the greatest threats to humanity would one day have to answer for their evilness...
are you afraid of death?
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
As I've said before, I'm not afraid of death, but I AM afraid of dying.
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
As I've said before, I'm not afraid of death, but I AM afraid of dying.
Can there realy be universal truths?
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
If it's true here, then it must be true elsewhere.
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
If it's true here, then it must be true elsewhere.
The concept of a Supreme Being looks completely illogical to me.
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
Life is CAF, and there's not a lot we can do about that... except accept it.
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
Life is CAF, and there's not a lot we can do about that... except accept it.
What can be done about police brutality?
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
This is a scary time we live in when it comes to police brutality. I don't know how we should deal with it, but I do know that sometimes I get so angry that I wonder if maybe it isn't time to do away with the Justice system as it is now, and find another way to deal with our policing system. We have a problem, and it's as bad as Russia and China. In fact, it may be worse.
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
This is a scary time we live in when it comes to police brutality. I don't know how we should deal with it, but I do know that sometimes I get so angry that I wonder if maybe it isn't time to do away with the Justice system as it is now, and find another way to deal with our policing system. We have a problem, and it's as bad as Russia and China. In fact, it may be worse.
American Dark Age?
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
I think the short answer is "yes."
The longer answer is, "Yyyyyyyyyyeeeeeeeeeeeeessssssssssssssssssssssssss!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
I think the short answer is "yes."
The longer answer is, "Yyyyyyyyyyeeeeeeeeeeeeessssssssssssssssssssssssss!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
For shit and giggles!
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
High on a hill was a lonely goatherd
Lay ee odl lay ee odl lay hee hoo
Loud was the voice of the lonely goatherd
Lay ee odl lay ee odl-oo
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
High on a hill was a lonely goatherd
Lay ee odl lay ee odl lay hee hoo
Loud was the voice of the lonely goatherd
Lay ee odl lay ee odl-oo
For shit and giggles!
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
Right?
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
Right?
GOP's love of Jesus real?
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
In fact, the GOP would be the first in line yelling, "Crucify HIM... Crucify HIM!"
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
In fact, the GOP would be the first in line yelling, "Crucify HIM... Crucify HIM!"
What to do if someone credits religion for the good they do?
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
I get this all the time. My Christian friends tell me, “You have little understanding what a Christian is…” But I think that maybe I do. So here is my response:
You say I don't have any understanding of what a Christian is, but they're everywhere I turn: Fox “news,” The Willow Creek Community Church, Rick Warren, Benny Hinn, Brian Fischer, Exodus International, James Dobson, Focus on the Family, Ted Cruz, Michelle Bachmann, John Boehner, Joe Scarborough, Megyn Kelly, Pat Robertson, Mitt Romney, Sarah Palin, Rush Limbaugh… These are all Christians, are they not? Their lives are public, their beliefs are public, and they speak openly of them all the time.
Then I add: "You’re having this conversation with the wrong person. I’m not a Christian. I’m never going to be a Christian. I will never surrender my soul. I will always put humanity over moral codes. While some of my behavior may be unskilled, I will seek to educate myself to the ways I can be a “net-positive” to those around me, or at least “net-neutral.” So I’m an observer, watching from the outside, and what I see is devastating and unbecoming.
As a Christian, you should be having this conversation with your fellow Christians. You should be discussing who and what you want to be as human beings who call themselves Christians. Your Pope has started that conversation, and Christians in America went nuts. They’re livid that he would suggest that Jesus would have a problem with the way the rich are behaving themselves toward the poor. In suggesting that Christians should put your moral code up against the teachings of Jesus, the Pope is being publicly vilified by Christians on Fox “news” especially.
I don’t need you to tell me what a Christian is, I need you to tell yourself—and your fellow Christians—what a Christian is; because I’m observing the exact opposite of what Christians keep saying.
People are good, AND they're Christian. People are assholes, AND they're Christian. It's about who we are... the labels after that are just gravy.
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
I get this all the time. My Christian friends tell me, “You have little understanding what a Christian is…” But I think that maybe I do. So here is my response:
You say I don't have any understanding of what a Christian is, but they're everywhere I turn: Fox “news,” The Willow Creek Community Church, Rick Warren, Benny Hinn, Brian Fischer, Exodus International, James Dobson, Focus on the Family, Ted Cruz, Michelle Bachmann, John Boehner, Joe Scarborough, Megyn Kelly, Pat Robertson, Mitt Romney, Sarah Palin, Rush Limbaugh… These are all Christians, are they not? Their lives are public, their beliefs are public, and they speak openly of them all the time.
Then I add: "You’re having this conversation with the wrong person. I’m not a Christian. I’m never going to be a Christian. I will never surrender my soul. I will always put humanity over moral codes. While some of my behavior may be unskilled, I will seek to educate myself to the ways I can be a “net-positive” to those around me, or at least “net-neutral.” So I’m an observer, watching from the outside, and what I see is devastating and unbecoming.
As a Christian, you should be having this conversation with your fellow Christians. You should be discussing who and what you want to be as human beings who call themselves Christians. Your Pope has started that conversation, and Christians in America went nuts. They’re livid that he would suggest that Jesus would have a problem with the way the rich are behaving themselves toward the poor. In suggesting that Christians should put your moral code up against the teachings of Jesus, the Pope is being publicly vilified by Christians on Fox “news” especially.
I don’t need you to tell me what a Christian is, I need you to tell yourself—and your fellow Christians—what a Christian is; because I’m observing the exact opposite of what Christians keep saying.
People are good, AND they're Christian. People are assholes, AND they're Christian. It's about who we are... the labels after that are just gravy.
I think there is a lot of confusion with terms in this area.
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
So, I'm going for the giant generalization: Atheists are "certain" that there is no god, that Jesus never existed, and that there can be no other options. For evidence, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CzSMC5rWvos.
Agnostics aren't certain. They don't see evidence, but that doesn't mean they aren't willing to change their ideas should evidence show up. For evidence, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CzSMC5rWvos.
Gnostics, on the other hand, claim that they have "special" awareness that only they can see. They call it enlightenment, we call it conspiratorial thinking.
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
So, I'm going for the giant generalization: Atheists are "certain" that there is no god, that Jesus never existed, and that there can be no other options. For evidence, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CzSMC5rWvos.
Agnostics aren't certain. They don't see evidence, but that doesn't mean they aren't willing to change their ideas should evidence show up. For evidence, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CzSMC5rWvos.
Gnostics, on the other hand, claim that they have "special" awareness that only they can see. They call it enlightenment, we call it conspiratorial thinking.
Was Jesus made Christian when John the Baptist baptised him?
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
In fact, Jesus was an apostle of John. The Gospels try to reconcile Jesus and John's relationship, but if you pay close attention, Jesus was John's disciple, and it was his connection with John that gave him credibility with the Galileans, and later Judeans. Gospel writers tried to turn that around in their attempt to deify Jesus, but a careful romp through the gospels shows that it was John who gave Jesus his prestige.
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
In fact, Jesus was an apostle of John. The Gospels try to reconcile Jesus and John's relationship, but if you pay close attention, Jesus was John's disciple, and it was his connection with John that gave him credibility with the Galileans, and later Judeans. Gospel writers tried to turn that around in their attempt to deify Jesus, but a careful romp through the gospels shows that it was John who gave Jesus his prestige.
If you were given the chance, would you want to be famous?
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
It depends. I'm a writer, and I would love it if my books were read. But I don't want to be famous at any cost. Nor do I need to be Tom Hanks or J.K. Rowling famous. I just want to be knowing for my work.
Those how put fame above all else, like the ones you mentioned above, sell their souls for fame, and it's not worth that to me. In fact, I owe most of who I am to those around me who made it possible for me to do the work I do and write the stories I've written. I owe so much to those people, and the thought of "sacrificing" them for fame both saddens me, and makes me sick.
There has to be a way to succeed, without sacrificing those who bring out the better in us.
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
It depends. I'm a writer, and I would love it if my books were read. But I don't want to be famous at any cost. Nor do I need to be Tom Hanks or J.K. Rowling famous. I just want to be knowing for my work.
Those how put fame above all else, like the ones you mentioned above, sell their souls for fame, and it's not worth that to me. In fact, I owe most of who I am to those around me who made it possible for me to do the work I do and write the stories I've written. I owe so much to those people, and the thought of "sacrificing" them for fame both saddens me, and makes me sick.
There has to be a way to succeed, without sacrificing those who bring out the better in us.
Is it inevitable that in order to accept scientific discovery all humans must think the same way and...
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
If that were true, then our scientists would all agree with each other. Instead, there are some spectacular fights among them. For example, Leonard Susskind and Steven Hawking over black holes. Gabrielle Émilie Le Tonnelier de Breteuil, Marquise Du Châtelet and her public disagreement with Sir Isaac Newton. The infamous battle between Tesla and Edison. Michael Faraday and just about every scientist of the day. Albert Einstein and ... well ... Albert Einstein. We are all products of "us," and that means we have our own approach to "science."
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
If that were true, then our scientists would all agree with each other. Instead, there are some spectacular fights among them. For example, Leonard Susskind and Steven Hawking over black holes. Gabrielle Émilie Le Tonnelier de Breteuil, Marquise Du Châtelet and her public disagreement with Sir Isaac Newton. The infamous battle between Tesla and Edison. Michael Faraday and just about every scientist of the day. Albert Einstein and ... well ... Albert Einstein. We are all products of "us," and that means we have our own approach to "science."
I do envy the community participation and fellowship that Churches provide.
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
I think you're right. I don't see this in any area. I live in New York, and you'd think they'd be all over something like this. But they're not. AA groups offer that, but unless you really need it, it seems uncouth to hang out listening to other's problems.
https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/atheism-has-a-suicide-problem_us_5a2a902ee4b022ec613b812b
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
I think you're right. I don't see this in any area. I live in New York, and you'd think they'd be all over something like this. But they're not. AA groups offer that, but unless you really need it, it seems uncouth to hang out listening to other's problems.
https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/atheism-has-a-suicide-problem_us_5a2a902ee4b022ec613b812b
I believe that ultimately there is no overall point to life.
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
I'm never sure. I vacillate between: "Yes, there is a point to life," and "No, life is pointless." After a couple of martinis, I'm all in. Life has purpose. But even then it's still not as convincing as it could be.
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
I'm never sure. I vacillate between: "Yes, there is a point to life," and "No, life is pointless." After a couple of martinis, I'm all in. Life has purpose. But even then it's still not as convincing as it could be.
Precognition
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
Yes, I think I have, but it's only hit and miss.
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
Yes, I think I have, but it's only hit and miss.
Are the Abrahamic religions just a representation of the zodiac?
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
According to Genesis, the Bible is older than the stars... which were created on the fourth day. ;)
But seriously folks: It's certain that there was the influence of astrology. In Matthew, the "Wise men from the east" were astronomers, which were also astrologers. Both were pretty much tied together at that time.
In Babylonian, and later Persian captivity, the Israelites would be introduced to astrology which were practiced by those cultures. Yet J and E were written before captivity, so it's hard to say where their influence came from. Though numerology and the symbolism that went with it were fairly universal. Even the names of God in J and E were borrowed from other cultures.
That's it for me. Tip your astrologist.
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
According to Genesis, the Bible is older than the stars... which were created on the fourth day. ;)
But seriously folks: It's certain that there was the influence of astrology. In Matthew, the "Wise men from the east" were astronomers, which were also astrologers. Both were pretty much tied together at that time.
In Babylonian, and later Persian captivity, the Israelites would be introduced to astrology which were practiced by those cultures. Yet J and E were written before captivity, so it's hard to say where their influence came from. Though numerology and the symbolism that went with it were fairly universal. Even the names of God in J and E were borrowed from other cultures.
That's it for me. Tip your astrologist.
What could motivate someone to proudly, publically broadcast their desire to murder people and to ...
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
One thing I've observed over time is that the more homophobic someone is, the more likely they are to be discovered in a hotel room snorting coke off a twink's ass. I wonder what name he uses on his Grindr account.
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
One thing I've observed over time is that the more homophobic someone is, the more likely they are to be discovered in a hotel room snorting coke off a twink's ass. I wonder what name he uses on his Grindr account.
So the President thinks global warming is good. I wish this whole 1st year was really a sitcom.
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
I truly never thought I would see the day when ignorance of such profundity would literally "rule" our country. Is it possible that America has entered a new Dark Ages?
Benthoven comments on Dec 29, 2017:
I truly never thought I would see the day when ignorance of such profundity would literally "rule" our country. Is it possible that America has entered a new Dark Ages?
Goals and Life plans
Benthoven comments on Dec 28, 2017:
I'm often asked during job interviews, "where I see myself in five years." My response is: "Alone on the couch in my underwear, eating Bon Bons while watching reruns of Friends."
Benthoven comments on Dec 28, 2017:
I'm often asked during job interviews, "where I see myself in five years." My response is: "Alone on the couch in my underwear, eating Bon Bons while watching reruns of Friends."
How much $ does a person need to be content & comfortably enjoy life?
Benthoven comments on Dec 28, 2017:
How much are you willing to give me? ;)
Benthoven comments on Dec 28, 2017:
How much are you willing to give me? ;)
Zapped...
Benthoven comments on Dec 28, 2017:
But that's not how it works. Religious freedom is ONLY for the religious... or the religious that fit the tenets of the religious group in charge. The rest of us need to either get on board or prepare for crucifixion.
Benthoven comments on Dec 28, 2017:
But that's not how it works. Religious freedom is ONLY for the religious... or the religious that fit the tenets of the religious group in charge. The rest of us need to either get on board or prepare for crucifixion.
Hello, Atheists and Agnostics.
Benthoven comments on Dec 28, 2017:
When you make an accusation against any person or group of people, you should at least provide some data to prove your allegations. You have no way of knowing whether or not "no one wants to see the main problem..."
I think you'll find as you read more comment more thoroughly, that there's quite a robust conversation going on about capitalism.
Benthoven comments on Dec 28, 2017:
When you make an accusation against any person or group of people, you should at least provide some data to prove your allegations. You have no way of knowing whether or not "no one wants to see the main problem..."
I think you'll find as you read more comment more thoroughly, that there's quite a robust conversation going on about capitalism.
The Supreme Court & the Gay Wedding Cake
Benthoven comments on Dec 28, 2017:
It's just another excuse to protect bigoted ideas by the shopkeepers. There's no reason on earth why anyone should have a problem baking a cake or taking pictures or selling pizza. But that's how religion works, it provides cover to bigots and racists and people of all kinds of meanness.
Businesses are created in the "public square." They are protected by public resources, serviced by public roads, and benefit from public support in ways that go beyond just a shop to sell your wares.
Beliefs are created in the absence of data, and so the belief that being gay is "sinful" is just that, a belief. Our Constitution offers freedom to anyone who wants to believe anything, but it does not support them in the public square. The public square is for everyone and nobody should be denied access to it. If selling a wedding cake to a gay couple is so offensive to you, then perhaps you're in the wrong business. OR you can stay out of the public square and work out of your house selling only to churches and religious people.
But when you set up a business, and say, "I'm here..." then be there.
Benthoven comments on Dec 28, 2017:
It's just another excuse to protect bigoted ideas by the shopkeepers. There's no reason on earth why anyone should have a problem baking a cake or taking pictures or selling pizza. But that's how religion works, it provides cover to bigots and racists and people of all kinds of meanness.
Businesses are created in the "public square." They are protected by public resources, serviced by public roads, and benefit from public support in ways that go beyond just a shop to sell your wares.
Beliefs are created in the absence of data, and so the belief that being gay is "sinful" is just that, a belief. Our Constitution offers freedom to anyone who wants to believe anything, but it does not support them in the public square. The public square is for everyone and nobody should be denied access to it. If selling a wedding cake to a gay couple is so offensive to you, then perhaps you're in the wrong business. OR you can stay out of the public square and work out of your house selling only to churches and religious people.
But when you set up a business, and say, "I'm here..." then be there.
What is your technique to connect to the Universe?
Benthoven comments on Dec 28, 2017:
Breathe. Eat. Drink (sometimes even water). Friends.
Benthoven comments on Dec 28, 2017:
Breathe. Eat. Drink (sometimes even water). Friends.
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