Letter to God
71
Please read
- A few words on Karma by Ananta65
After a definition of Karma, several views are discussed. These include the ‘bank-account’ view, the ‘future lives’ view, the popular ‘law of attraction’ view and finally my personal view. - Aren't we supposed to be fishers of men? by Talented_Ink
I was inspired to write this hub after reading a hub by my friend, Ananta65. http://hubpages.com/hub/Letter-to-God I also happened to read a hub by T.keeley.... - What about respect by Lazur
It wouldn't be the first time that ambulance personnel who are occupied with a patient during a reanimation are bothered by curious people who obstruct them doing their job, or ambulance people who don't get...
Religious Profile
How would you describe yourself?
See results without votingDear God,
I don't know you and I guess you don't know me either. If what is said about you is true, I reckon that you look at the world much like I would look at an anthill and I can imagine that - just like I am unable to distinguish and know each and every ant - you can't have a connection with each and every individual human. However, word has it that you're omnipresent, so we may have met at some party or another event, but I have no recollection of that. So no offense but if we did, it must have been a brief encounter that didn't leave a big impression with me.
I haven't read any of the million-selling biographies (you know, the bible, the quran, the thora, the secret and all those other books that have been published to celebrate your glory) either, so my ‘knowledge' (if it can be called that) about you is minimal and based on hear-say. Therefore I try to stay away from prejudice and bias. On the other hand, there are a lot of rumors about you that are circulating and I can't deny that these have colored my view. So please don't take this personal; any misjudgment or criticism from my part is caused by sheer ignorance.
The thing is that there are so many people here claiming that they actually do know you quite well. And while I am glad for them that they apparently have found some meaning and purpose in this life, it is pretty confusing to neutral outsiders such as myself. Whenever I argue that there's so much contradiction in the guidance and advices you reputedly have provided and the behavior of those claiming to follow these advices, I'm fobbed off with the bromide that ‘your ways are incomprehensible'. And I've got several issues with this explanation. You see, if most of the other guidelines are so clear then it is remarkable (to put it politely) that you introduce so much obscurity when it comes to practicing them. And sure, you can take the easy way out of this argument by responding that your ways are mysterious, but for some reason you don't seem to be the type of person who'd take the easy way out. People speak so highly of you that I can't believe that you wouldn't assume responsibility and provide an explanation.
Second, even if you are the type to make lame excuses (which again, I don't believe) I think a word of advice is appropriate. I mean, you've been around since like forever, right? You've seen what has happened. The crusades, the Reconquista, Northern Ireland, the Jihad, Israel... History will teach us nothing. We simply don't learn from our mistakes. At least, not at a collective level. So sure, you can put us through yet another major catastrophe or conflict but it won't work. I can guarantee you that. Back then this tower of Babel may have served its purpose, but it's been quite a mess ever since. Mankind has done a real good job in f*cking up this planet and much of this f*cking up has been done in your name. Trust me, people trying to convert other people (quite often by force, mind you) doesn't add to your credibility.
As far as I'm concerned you teach your followers one important thing: respect. You tell them to respect life, respect the earth we inhabit, respect the family, respect the neighbors. And honestly, I think that this message of respect didn't sink in. Really, it didn't. People criticize and threaten each other just for having a different perception of the world and life. And not just the ‘ordinary' people, but guys (yep, they usually are male) that have made their way up in the hierarchies that appear to exist in your organization. The pope shows an utter lack of respect for life when he preaches not to use contraceptives in the nidus of HIV. Imams display a striking lack of respect when they summon the religious to go out and kill in your name. I could go on for like forever, but I assume that you already know all this, being omniscient and all.
Anyway. It's time to come to some conclusion; you probably have enough on your mind as it is. Do something. For your sake, for my sake, for everybody's sake: do something. Things have gotten out of hand and out of control and you didn't get to become this influential for nothing. Assume your responsibility and take control. This whole expulsion from the Garden of Eden thing has been a nice experiment, but it failed miserably. Symbolic messages like the tricks you pulled with Noah, Jesus and Mohamed don't work either. Mankind is too stupid to get the message. Keep it simple, keep it clear. Today's society more than ever has become accustomed to oneliners and soundbites. Don't rely on human messengers, there's too much cynicism among people. Convey the message yourself and be as convincing as you can be. I'm counting on you!
PrintShare it! — Rate it: up down flag this hub
Comments
Thank you for your elaboration. Truth is, I simply don’t know whether or not a god exists. This is both a creative exercise and a “J’accuse” to those religious fanatics who’d gladly condemn me to hell. I respect their beliefs, but I think they in turn ought to respect the differing beliefs of their fellow humans. They could even go as far as taking into consideration that they all mean the same, but just use different words. Apart from all the religious phrases that can be interpreted in a million ways, with different rules (e.g. on what to eat), I think fundamentally the three monotheistic religions share common values, which in turn can be brought down to one single requirement: respect.
From my own studies, I would agree that respect is a common bond between monotheistic religions. I'm not the one to ever tell anyone who or what to believe in, but I will always make my belief in God known and only in hopes of showing others what it means to be a God fearing Christian. I have gone through a phase where I doubted the existence of a god or a devil, but through my own reading, and my experiences, I found a stronger faith and belief in God. I have nothing but respect for you Ananta65, so I say that the only way you will know one way or another is through your own research and experience as well. I just really hope this doesn't come off as sounding preachy.
To each his own, Talented_Ink. Much in the same way that you don’t come off as preachy, I don’t want to convert you either. As far as I’m concerned you are one of the people who do indeed show respect. Like I said in the hub, I am glad you found a meaning, purpose and faith in your life. You are aware that it is through your OWN experiences and your OWN research that you have found your faith. Which means that you acknowledge that others will have to follow their own paths rather than forcing your truth upon them. This speaks for you.
How can any of us know if a god exists. It seems more logical to me that there isn't vs. that there is.
I hope you don't me making a response Ananta65, but to rdelp...Religion and one's belief in God has nothing to do with logic because it's all about faith in the unseen.
I'm saved and have been since I was 14 years old. And God will make His presense known in person when Jesus comes back to take the church (people who are saved) Home to Heaven. But, the sad part about that is that those who are not saved will never get to go to Heaven with us. But that is their decision. God gives us all free will to be saved and go to Heaven, or not to and go to Hell. It is an individual decision. Jesus will appear in the sky and we who have been saved by faith in Him will rise to meet Him. We can't demand that He does anything. We can only pray for the things we want/need. And just so you know, I pray for Him to come back daily. And I know He will when the time is right. But, only He knows when that is. So, I am waiting patiently for that day. And yes, God does know you. In fact, He knows how many hairs are on your head. Have a great day!
To me it seems as logical that there is a god as that there isn’t, rdelp. Neither can be proved.
I don’t mind, Talented_Ink :) Faith and logic are not the same. I don’t think we should look for logic in that respect either. Sometimes you KNOW by looking at a person whether or not you’re going to like him or her. There’s no logic in that either. Life’s not just about logic, as far as I’m concerned.
Good for you, Allshookup. And it’s your view that folks like me will not be getting front rows in this place called heaven. I for me live in the illusion or confidence (depending on your point of view) that IF there is a god, I can look him or her straight in the eye and take responsibility and accountability for my acts in this life. Have a great day yourself too :)
Great hub Ananta, but the one I'm REALLY looking forward to is the one you write when God sends you his letter in reply. I wouldn't hold your breath waiting for it though. It could take awhile. That's been my experience anyway.
I don't see how anyone can honestly say anything except "I don't know" when it comes to questions on the existence of God. What strikes me as really unfortunate is that many religious people seem to lose their manners and find it completely appropriate to judge others and tell them how to conduct their lives. Putting aside the question of God entirely, whatever happened to common courtesy?
Right now the US is full of religious zealots and I'm frankly tired of their rude and pushy behavior.
Thanks for a great hub.
Well, you never know, Pam ;) If god actually is the imaginary friend of grown ups, or god is the spirit that inspires us all, such a letter may arrive earlier than we expect. Even if I write it myself, it could well be the divine inspiration that leads me.
I think both sides (the religious and the atheistic) have people on their side that are overly convinced of their truth as being the one and only truth. I’ve seen religious people judging and forcing their belief on to others, but I’ve also seen atheists doing the same towards religious people. In my view both are showing an utter lack of respect and courtesy.
And if it’s of any comfort, here in the Netherlands we’re stuck with a coalition consisting of religious zealots and armchair socialists. It’s almost like a virus :(
Thanks for commenting on it.
when i saw the title of your hub, i got interested in reading it as I thought it will give some inspirations to me and the urge to keep on going because of the idea that God is omnipresent, there above watching us and ready to catch us with His mighty arms as we fall in any trial. But, to tell u frankly, I was a bit confused and I felt somehow hurt that u talk to God like talking to another creature equivalent to human level. I understand though that in your point of view, mankind has ruined the earth and so many bad things are happening since time immemorial and God has been slow or reluctant in preventing these things from happening.
For me, its better to believe that God is there and existing, than to believe that there is no God at all, because as humans we have limited abilities and capacities and coming to an endpoint means hopelessness. With God, there are no limits, there is no endpoint... there is always hope for improvement and the delight in thinking that we will have glorified life in another dimension, away from all sufferings and cruelty of earthly life. For all things happening in this world, even for the smallest ones which we can hardly notice, there is always a reason.
If God has created this world and life itself, He can always create thousandfolds of new earth, far far better than what we have now. For me, instead of looking at the miseries of life, we have to count what good things He has given us. Then and there, we will discover for ourselves that the good things He has given us cannot be counted even by the highest number that the greatest mathematician could give, and cannot be equaled even by number of stars in the sky.
think about the complexity of human anatomy, every cell has its own function and purpose... just like there is a reason behind for what's happening in the world. God has given us a world to live... ...He gave us the gift of free will and volition and the ability to think far better than any other creature. Most of all, He gave His words to guide us.
Have a wonderful day!
By all means believe what you feel is right, Vilmadoesnt. If I understand your comment correctly, you don’t need me for inspiration :) Apprently you have found your faith and I respect that. To me the thought that life will not get better until after we’ve left it seems rather depressing; for you it’s an inspiring promise. It’s all about perspective.
Personally this is what bothers me: we’ve been given the ability to think far better than any other creature, as you say. Yet any other creature will display more respect than we do…
You have a great day too!
What a thought-provoking letter!
Each religious person will no doubt have strong views about it - but the nugget that caught my eye was the bit about respect. Why is it that we can get through life with a semblance of respect for others at work, at play, very often at home too - and lose it all when it comes to religion? If only we could practise that, imagine how much more harmony there would be! If only.........
There was a book in my class when I taught school "Are you there God, It's me Margaret" and many kids enjoyed that young woman's journey of questioning.
Perhaps the world is shaking on it's axxxxxsssssis to get our attention?
I think God read your letter antana, it was a beautiful "prayer" if you will. No matter what you call it, it was received. However, the plan is set, but we can sway His opinion. I do believe. =)) thumbs up!
Living in a home where Christianity was preached but not always followed, my questioning mind always wondered about God. The weird thing is.. I never questioned he existed.. just in what form. Is he truly the Jesus's dad? Is he really omipresent.. always there, every day.. all the time? Like, when I'm having breakfast.. in the bathroom.. driving in the car.. its kinda freaky knowing theres something else there when I'm on the toilet seat. And yet its also kinda comforting to know that in my lowest moments there might just be someone there. But, having said that I recalled a few of those low moments and I don't remember feeling anything but.. alone.
Anyway, I don't knock what others believe or don't believe. Its what they believe. Who am I to say different? I don't know where in the bible its written but I always thought God gave us 'free will'. The power to choose. Who are we to try to choose for another what they should or should not believe. Doesn't that fly in the face of what God wanted?
Personally, I've always thought of him/her/it as a caretaker. He set up the place and let us move in. We have our power of choice and where some of us have gone a little nuts over using or abusing it. He didn't say.. 'okay, thats it you're outta here'. However, he may just have dropped a few subtle hints.. *take the floods for instance and what about this changeable weather?*
Maybe he talks to us all the time but we're so caught up in the life of Mankind that we fail to hear the whispers of God. Maybe if we look into the eyes of a child we'll see him there.. maybe if watch the news and see that survivors were found after all hope was lost.. maybe we'll have a sense that something greater than us is working quietly in the background.. I wonder though.. if he did take responsibility for whats going on.. what would he do. His laws according to the bible are black and white. What will we cry if he pulled rank?
I think because we have power of choice that like it or not, its up to us and as I write those words I think.. 'oh god.. now I'm afraid.. because its up to us.. '.. funny how I instantly invoke his name..
Anyway thats my two cents worth.. such as it is.. great hub!
God loves you, he loves us all, and to prove it he sent his son to die on the cross for our sins while we were still sinners. Through belief in Christ we all can be saved.
As for the existence of God maybe this will help.
http://kids4truth.com/watchmaker/watch.html
May God Bless you and open your eyes,
Vic
P.S. pgrundy, God always answers our prayers (and letters). Sometimes it's just not the answer we want or expect.
You got my point exactly, Shalini Kagal! Although I refer to respect in a broader sense. We (mankind) are so good at criticizing other people, showing too little respect for the way they want to live their lives. But not respecting other people’s beliefs is indeed one of the biggest problems. Thanks for commenting and reading between the lines.
You could indeed consider it a prayer, Marisue. Even though I’m not religious. Most of all it’s an appeal to people to let others be. Thank you for your comment!
With programs such as Big Brother we humans are getting scarily close to the omnipresent idea, aren’t we, Tari? If a god exists, he didn’t only give us free will, he also gave us our own perception. And we have the free will to do exactly what you ‘preach’: not choosing for another what they should and what they should not believe. There are a lot of maybe’s. And one of them is that maybe you are right :) Thank you for your comment.
You illustrate my hub perfectly, Victor. Have a nice day.
I've lived my life making a great conscious and ever present effort to respect differences. We are all growing; my opinion of today may be different from my opinion on the same subject tomorrow. While I am "opinionated" - in an effort to differentiate myself from the floating feathers in the wind - I do allow myself to change and grow with the passage of storms and time. Otherwise, I would be a vegetable.
Others can grow at their pace, or not as is their choice. If they are comfortable in their skin, and do not try to rip mine off, then I am at peace with them.
=))
I LOVE this comment, Marisue. If more people looked at things that way, the world would be a much more peaceful place. I think that it's a shame if people get stuck in their beliefs.
Thank you again for contributing!
Just a question:) .... what if you got a reply and you didn't recognise that it WAS a reply? I've heard the phrase 'the devil is in the details' bandied around on many a hubpage. What if God were in the details? What if it's through the little, seemingly inconsequential things where his answers are heard? What if each of us needs to listen to build up a Life Force of love? What if it's our collective choices that make our world? From microcosm to macrocosm...is that the way the energy flows? Then maybe you'll find your answer in your heart :)
Good point, Shalini. Then still people can (and should in my opinion) be more respectful towards eachother and towards the differences between ourselves. Live and let live and look for your own answers, without pressing those answers upon to others. I THINK I find these little answers all of the time and I THINK these add up to the big picture. But I know, that those are MY answers and it's MY big picture. Your picture may be completely different and who's to say that either one of these pictures is the one and only truth?
Exactly!!! ....and your username is well-chosen, if I may say so :)
Thank you so much, Shalini :)
This is a good letter, in the form of a muse, an exercise in thinking aloud. My view is that some people have a need to believe because they are uncomfortable not knowing the answer. But a viable alternative to accepting an answer on trust, or as an article of faith, is, instead, to dismiss the need to believe and merely leave unanswerable questions open. Q. Is there a god? A. I don't know. Q. But do you think there's a god? A. On balance, no I don't. Q. But you must believe in something, surely? A. Why? What's wrong with that?
Thank you, Paraglider. Is there a god? I don't know either. On balance I don't think there is a god in the way it is being presented by many, Christans and Muslims alike. This would be a human-like entity, only with powers beyond our own. But do I think there's a god? I don't know, I just don't know and I am at peace with not knowing.
((But do I think there's a god? I don't know, I just don't know and I am at peace with not knowing.))
My position exactly. And I'm happy to let others decide if that makes me agnostic or atheist. I think neither label is useful.
If those other people want to decide that, by all means let them do that. But let them keep their verdict to themselves, because I couldn't care less.
Your commentary and intelligent inqury as to the existence and/or nature of God is refreshing. I grew up in a home where my saintly little mother's lifeline was her faith -- probably because she spent 50 years tying to understand my father, no doubt. I know that her faith was important to her and provided her great comfort as well as all the answers she needed. I went on with my life with the undercurrent that as long as I had faith, everything would turn out okay, primarily because my mother was quick to point out how to interpret prayers being answered by ending every life-challenging episode with the assurance, "whatever is meant to be."
When I finally ended a 20 year marriage to an abusive man, I realized that I had used religion as a "crutch" during most of my life with him -- hoping and praying that God would change him, make him "see" what love surrounded him and alter his behavior as well as the toxic words he chose to use with his daughter and I. I now know that I was trying to BE my mother and see faith through her eyes instead of doing what I needed to do with my own life. I doubt I would have had the courage to change my circumstances if my mother were still alive at the time, since her voice in my head was immensely powerful.
So what is my view of the existence of God now? I believe that if there is a heaven, we have an opportunity to create it here on earth in our daily lives. And if indeed a Redeemer was born of the Virgin Mary, that those of us who have tried to live good lives enough to discover that there is an "angel in the details" will go to a good place. If not? Whatever is meant to be. An All-loving God will know what to do with each and every one of us.
Thank you REritr. This is very intimate and I admire that you share it. It goes to show that belief is personal. For me that’s one reason why you can’t extrapolate that belief into something collective and anonymous: religion. We all walk our own paths. Again, thank you for this comment.
Believe it or not, I am looking forward to watching Bill Maher's upcoming movie, "Religulous". Bill can be pretty brutal and judgmental about people's dogmatic sense of religious faith, but the guy is a riot. I missed him on Larry King the other night but I heard he was brilliant.
Glad to contribute. Sometimes it's the personal stuff that people can really relate to.
Absolutely, REtitr. Personal stuff will often put people with their feet on the ground. We can read as much as we like about theories and figures, but it's not until we read some experience out of the first hand that we understand the consequences.
As far as Bill Maher is concerned.. I don't know him, but if you say he's judgmental well... need I say anything? :)
Bill Maher is a stand-up comedian who runs a panel/political commentary show on HBO. He used to have a show named "Politically Incorrect" before it morphed in to the current one.
Yes, he may sound judgmental, but so do a alot of religious people. I guess he's their antidote, since few people have the nerve to speak out against organized religion and the wars that are and have been waged in the name of God throughout history. To see his Larry King Live interview, go to CNN.com. It's on the front page. Interesting viewpoint.
interesting hub bro!... i actually trying to understand your point. im a christian, believing in God and not only to myself alone as i describe of you.. your hub describes you as an egoistic and narcistic person. maybe your family did not mold you in love and respect or sometimes in your life, you experienced of unworthfull living... if you dont believe in GOd and respect then keep it your self and dont try to use this hub to influence others, yes.. your just expressing your views but remember most of the philsophers and famous scientist who are wiser than you are believed that God exist and also knows the worth of respect.. so if your tring to point that God's answers are opposite of what we want to its because he has a better purpose for that. ALWAYS THINK! that dont expect too much on what you want because you might be discourage and blame others especially blaming GOd...He has nothing to do about our free will. what you want to do in your life is your decision. if you dont like reading bible try to read pUrpose driven life by rick warren or try to research theories of personality, you might see the real you behind your personality... try it..
“but so do a lot of religious people”… No offense and nothing personal, but too many people use this excuse, in my opinion. Just because someone else does wrong doesn’t give me a justification to do wrong, does it? Turning the other cheek (now where did I read that before) may be too much to ask, but retaliation usually is not the answer in my humble opinion. I’ll have a look though :)
Thank you for your comment, carlajoy_diva.
Funny thing is that I nowhere deny your or any other god. This hub is more concerned with people than with god.
As for the rest of your plea, well I won’t go into a discussion. You believe in god and that’s good for you.
I appreciate your psycho analysis. It gives me enough to blame others and the circumstances which I think is great! All this time I’ve been trying to think for myself, looking for the mistakes that I have made while I could have just as easily blamed it on my family and my unworthful living.
Have a nice day and may your god be with you (no sarcasm meant).
First things first...Great write..
My take: I looked for God through the ways and means of traditional religious institutions especially the Judeo-Christian form based on the Bible as the 'word' and 'work' of God through divine inspiration...That was the option available to me as a child...When I grew up, I began to question the validity of those institutions because of their choices of behavior through out the history of mankind..An example of this would be the 'Crusades'...
I came to the conclusion that the knowledge of God is more purely attainable through a kinship and respect for what God has created...Studying the ways of nature for example...I have in recent years aligned my self with the hypothesis, (as all religion is ultimately hypothesis) that God is of spiritual essence and may or may not have the ability to experience life in a incarnate form...
However, I gravitate to the hypothesis that God chooses to remain apiritual in form as a personal life decision do to take advantage of 'experiencing' God's own creation of life through a multitude of life form experiences concurrently..Imagine for a moment the ability to experience the tangible of all living forms and their individual 'free' life pursuits and fulfilments that encompass their chosen 'meanings' in life..
To 'be' the wind...To 'be' a tree...To 'be' a bird..and so on including all the forms of life we humans recognize and all we have yet to have knowledge of....
The individual life form that God experiences the tangible through makes the 'drama' of life and choses the values it adhears too...God is just 'along for the ride' so to speak...God doesn't care if you are 'good' or 'bad' happy or sad...It's all 'good' for God as the 'experience' is what life is all about in God's perspective..
The nice thing about this obsession God has with the ability to experience life through the creation of life. Is the logical conclusion that the essence of God housed inside all living entities returns to the 'source' after the life time of the entity is played out...To be recreated again and again..So, the good news is as long as God is entertained,enriched, and continues to find value to the game of life....It should continue for you, for me, for all of us..
It shows similarities with new age philosophies concerned with the Universal spirit or Energy. I consider that just as much as possibility as other views or even the absence of any deity. Thank you for sharing your view, LooseCanon.
First and foremost how are you doing. I believe in God but I don't knock anyone elses relegion. God says love all mankind so I love all humanity. That's the message that mankind has missed. When Jesus came all he did was add one commandment Love your neighbor. So I can understand why you would be mad. Maybe you should find a spritual balance that works for you. And did it ever occur to you that God heard your letter, just look at how many responses you have gotten.
God Bless
Wow what a fantastic hub expressing the genuine heart of a man! I appreciated it quite a bit. It says so much about you but it is tactfully put into a the format of a letter.
I wish I had 1/2 as much talent.
I am fine, I hope you’re good too, LIL-Tra3 (interesting nickname).
I’m quite sure that if there is a god, he or she will know of the thought conveyed in this hub. I think Jesus did try to teach just that and I’m afraid that too many people didn’t learn. In my experience Iam well on my way to find a spiritual balance, but just like any others’ it is a personal balance.
May your god bless you too.
Thank you so much, WeddingConsultant.
Wow this was really good. How you see things is intriguing. I believe everyone should have the freedom to feel and believe in whatever they want as long as no one gets hurt. Live and let live!
Peace Ananta65
So do I, Cheryle. Believe what you believe, live life the way you choose as long as other people don't get hurt. Thank you for your comment and peace to you :)
I admit I did not read every single comment...too many...but in my humble opinion..He is coming soon to straighten the likes of us up....Am counting on 2012 or 2013 for this ????the clock stops there.....Thanks for a great Letter to God...G-Ma :o) hugs and prayers
thank you once again for the honesty displayed. it helps one think about taking more responsibility for the choices one makes in life. afterall, where we are as a people is a consequence of the choices made in the past. have a blessed day:)
Karma, Dayzeebee :) It's all karma. Or, to stay with both feet on the ground, as you say, taking responsibility for our actions. Thank you for commenting, have a wonderful day too.
2012 seems to be D-Day, so I've read. But if (s)he indeed comes to set thing right by then, that's fine with me, G-Ma. Cause I don't think we'll be able to do it ourselves.
Thanks for stopping by and commenting. Have a great day.
One commenter asked, "How can we know if God exists?" It is rather curious to me that there are actually living, thinking, even well educated humans who are quite uncertain about the existence of God and the significance of man. How can we know? Just look around. Contemplate your own existence, the planets and stars, plants and animals. Even if we could find a possible beginning point that would include the source material for both the organic and inorganic elements, it is a mathematical absurdity to think that what exists today could have developed on its own in some random chaotic manner.
I have been meaning for some time to post an article I wrote about this. I finally put it up on HubPages today.
I am looking forward to that, John. Thank you for commenting and let me know when you publish it, please.
Ananta: I am a spiritual person, but not into any religion, and I personally would rather have a discussion with an agnostic because most often the agnostics I have conversed with, are open minded and question things, such as the nature af reality and God... and do not point fingers. I enjoyed reading your letter to God, its sounds honest and quite frankly refreshing!
Thumbs up!
Thank you very much, VioletSun. I must say that I have seen quite some comments (both on this hub and on other hubs on religion) from religious people that were open minded and respectful. On the whole I tend to agree with you, agnostics appear to question things rather than to be convinced that they know THE truth.
I guess we are all spiritual in some way. It would be very... remarkable if we would never question the bigger picture and the reason for everything, would it? It's only human to search for explanations. Whether it's through religion or nature (pagan) or energy, or whatever binding force we feel fit.
Thank you for reading and commenting!
Greetings Ananta, I found your hub quite interesting. In the past, I too have felt the way you do right now.
Have a nice day!
Seeing all the misery happening in today's world its so easy to stop believing in God. Sometimes talking to God like how you did in your letter re-enforces the faith we are fast losing day by day. I'm sad after reading your letter. Great work on your part in penning this letter. wonderfully written. its just the question seeming to pop up in my mind... when is God going to write back and answer all those questions... it has been long overdue.
Thank you, Quicksand. Thanks for reading and commenting. You have a wonderful day too.
I doubt that he will write back, Ashwinspga. But I'm sure many people will find answers in many different ways :)
Well Ananta, GOD has already written your reply! ... even before you mailed your letter!!! He has written millions of replies, and all we have to do is open the envelopes. Like Edison did, Like Marconi did, and like many others before them and after them.
Many many years ago I opened one!!! Yes I did! ... When I did, I just screamed!
It was when I examined the groves on a gramophone record ... I screamed "oh GOD! you have revealed everything to Edison"!
Have a great week, Ananta!
All the better then! From all the envelopes I got, I still haven't deciphered the identity or character of the sender, but the messages were all welcome. I wish you a great week as well, Quicksand!
I do believe the world is more concerned whether you get your answer or not!!! :)
I honestly could not comprehend what Shalini Kagal is trying to say. be more vivid dear
If you mean that we should change things ourselves, rather than passively waiting for these answers, I agree with you, Shalini :)
Sorry - I should have been more clear - what I meant was, your letter questioned, without demanding answers or without really expecting any - however, everyone else seems so sure you'll get an answer! :)
*laughs* So it seems, doesn't it?
Thanks for providing your creativity about god existence.
Hi Ananta 65. What a great hub. You summed up so succinctly my own feelings about religion. Would a God of Love really want us to be fighting over the details? Jesus gave some brilliant teachings to mankind, illustrated in simple tales, such as the Good Samaritan, where a stranger, who would not have been expected to help, was actually the person who showed love and respect for a fellow human being in need. We are exhorted in the Bible to 'Love one another as we love ourselves', not to ram religious rules and regulations down each other's throats! Somewhere else in the Bible it tells us to 'Knock, and the door shall open. Ask, and you shall receive.' There are no caveats on that simple statement. In my view, the caveats are all man-made and imposed by the various churches and religions.
If we would only show those nearest to us some care and consideration, the world would be a much happier place. After all, what goes around, comes around.
You're welcome bagish. Isn't creativity something divine? :)
If only, Amanda, if only... I agree, what goes around comes around. Thank you for reading and commenting.
is it that u r really confused or r u really an atheist?
None of the above. It is that I am really open minded.
Open minded is the only way to be. What we believe is our own business. I have never understood people on either side of this argument(?) who think they can bully you into adopting their beliefs. A belief is something that can only be found through your own experiences. Personally, I have seen enough to believe. But if you haven't, or haven't yet, I don't see how that is offensive to others. And yet, it seems to be.
So it seems, BT. And indeed all sides of the argument have their exponents who gladly force their belief upon others. Next to the desire for power this has been the major cause for war and conflict, if you ask me.
Ananta great hub. I'm amazed at how intolerant some people can be. You have written this as an introspection and and a self valdating execercise. I can resonate with it and strangely enough it has its own answers. it just appears that the deaf cannot yet hear. One doesn't need to agree with you to appreciate your thoughts. Once again great hub. great sharing that one with us.
Thank you very much, Sixtyorso. I don't expect people to share my beliefs, questions and doubts. We can agree to disagree :) Thanks for reading and commenting!
Hi Ananta, I have talked to God since I was a little girl when I had to be away from home. I was lonely, frightened and homesick. He became very real to me then and he continues to be real to me now. But I remember I have some classmates who told me I was weird talking to God. I guess it didn't matter so much then because when I had no one to be with me, it gave me comfort that Someone was there for me.
This God that I know would welcome your letter and the heart with which you have expressed all that is inside of you. No judgements, no criticisms. Just listening with all the love He has for you. As I read through all the comments, I realized our perception of God differs due to our experiences, culture, our background, the society in which we live, even in what religion we belong or don't belong. Through it all, I recognize that we all need to respect and accept the differences, rejoice in the similarities and continue to respect each one's journey.
At this point in my life, I am just so grateful for the friendship I have found in God. And I would like to grow more, become a better person and learn to love more and more each day. May you continue to talk or write to him/her... take care...
Ananta there were a great series of books called letters to god and are much in the same vein as yours. I think there were 3 books but I cannot recollect the author.
Thank you for your beautiful comment, Ripplemaker. I indeed didn't mean to offend anybody, but it strikes me that even if people believe in the same god, there are so many differences among them. And the differences become even bigger if there are different gods (God, Allah, Jahwe, etc.). I think we should respect those differences, rather than trying to resolve them (which almost always means convince the other).
There not in the Amazon capsule I included, Sixtyorso?
Wonderful hub.
Ananta65: I had to think a bit before commenting here. You've received quite the mixed bag of comments so I'll try to keep mine short.
I do believe in God. And I also believe He is omnipresent and omniscient. I don't have all the answers as to how and why God moves among His people. All I can say is this. For everyone who's ever felt a connection with the Living God, through His spirit, their life changes forever.
As a yoked apprentice of Christ, it's my mandate to live as wisely and winsomely as possible through the grace He provides. That's all. I will not chastise, judge, proseltyze or condemn any other man or woman based on what they do, or do not believe. To do so is to go against the essence of God Himself. We are the created ones. He is the creator. The peace I find flows from this acceptance.
You have written a very powerful piece here. I hope it speaks to some in ways you may not have planned, but God did. I leave you with this: Keep your mind open at all times and remember, there's a reason you feel the way you do. God read your letter before you wrote it and will welcome your words at any time. Continue to pen your letters to God, and some day you might be surprised to hear a response... just be ready to pin your ears back... it happened to me.
God is the most creative being ever. We exist through His creativity.
Thank you, Die’Dre’
Please feel free to comment as much as you like, Rob. It would be wonderful if this hub would inspire people to act the way you do: keep their faith and belief without judging or trying to convert others. And I intend to keep an open mind. Thank you for commenting and may your God be with you, Rob.
Hi Anana You have some but maybe the stuff I am thinking of is perhaps a bit older and made up a trilogy. Anyway you get the idea.
I do, I'll have a look :)
Amen.
Peace to you, Dadla :)
Blessed be, Ananta. <]:-) (that's a witch smiling)
Blessed be, Dafla en my apologies for the typo too.
I read your other comment, hope your anger has disappeared by now ;)
got me thinking
That was the intention :) Some people start thinkg about god's existence, others start thinking about themselves. And who's to say that those two couldn't be one and the same thing :)
I am a southern baptist by birth,and I live by the rules of THE TEN COMMANDMENTS and THE LAW OF ATTRACTION,it seems to me that these two things are the underlining message of all the big religions,I believe that GOD gave us life to live and to enjoy our time on earth.The one thing that I do know for sure is that there is not one person on this planet that can prove the existence of god or the non existence of god.This is a question that can never be truly answered.you just have to find what works for you.
I agree completely, Bill Yon. It's the most personal journey and discovery of all. To each his own. Thank you for reading and commenting.
After reading the "Letter to God" it did hurt as God does answer all letters , we just need to take the time to read them. Have you ever had anything wonderful happen and couldn't figure out how it happened? That was God, some say it could be Karma , some say Luck but I never SEE it as any of that as I believe that the truth, the way and the light is GOD. I could write about what God has done fo me, however would take so long. It is man who destroys what is , as GOD gives free reign and so many do not listen to his word. Revelations clearly explains it all but only those who believe can actually see it. I commend you for writing this as it tells me that you are looking for answers and I will pray that he comes to you with them. I cannot judge you , as God says I too shall be judged, the only thing I can do is value your thoughts. Many of us have walked down that road and in God's time he was there. My recommendation possibly is to pick up that Bible and open the book to revelations or ask God to guide you to which Chapter you should begin , and then you may find what you are looking for. Imagine the articles you could write and the responses that could be.
God Bless
To be honest I find not knowing to be a wonderful source of inspiration as it enables me to open up my mind. However, I appreciate your effort, AEvans and by no means do I want to shake your faith or ridicule your belief. I am quite confident that the answers will come in due time, although the answers for me may be quite different than the answers you have received, leading me to different views.
Thank you for reading and commenting and may your God bless you and be with you (no sarcasm intended).
Ananta65,
Not knowing is a true inspiration as it does enable you to have an open mind and not be judgemental as I myself although I believe cannot judge you but respect and value your thoughts. :)
Nah, no god for me. no flat earth, no free lunch, no 6,000 year old earth, no vengeful, hateful psychopathic entity for me. No devil in the corner, no trinity.
does this mean I am intolerant?
Bet your arse I am.
Intolerant of having my country and yours run by bloody god-botherers like George Bush in the USA, John Howard in Australia, gone now, but replaced with Kevin Rudd another person with an invisible friend like England's John Blair, and the list goes on.
Religion is built in to our societies to the point where there is no tolerance of free thinking, unless it is based on some religious belief.
The religious tell me what's in the bible or the quran, I already read both and they are like all the other books, full of hate and menace from their version of god
To those who would argue using the good book, (which book that is depends on who you talk to)
I say read something that goes against you beliefs and try to open your mind from the blind faith you refuse to examine.
The god of religion is so small, he could crawl under my carpet with a high hat on and not leave a bump.
The raving lunatic depicted in the bible as god will never be anything other than the ranting of a sick human to me.
Certainly not an Omni-potent god.
Even mere humans are not as ****** in the head as the biblical god or the god of the muslims or jews.
A psychological profile of god would be a bipolar sociopath with many deep rooted psychoses that will not respond to therapy.
Religion......... Ignorance by choice.
Ananta65 you are a diplomat, which is not my best talent, as will no doubt be pointed out to me.
Rob Jundt, if god made man he scewed up real bad when he made Mugabi. Boy talk about a crook product!
I try not to be judgemental and respect and value your thoughts as well, AEvans. Thank you again for commenting.
It seems to me your convictions are as strong as those of the religious among us, earnestshub. Rejecting religion has become your religion, if you ask me. I can agree up to the point that people (mind you: people, not religions) should not force their views upon each other, but basically there it ends. I wouldn't want a non-religious fanatic run my country either. Freedom of religion is a priceless freedom.
Although I Love the Lord , it is not anyone's place to be pushing religion down anyone's throat as if someone would have done that to me, I don't think I would have found him. Some (people) would probably disagree with my thoughts, but I am simply trying to walk closer to him without stepping on anyone's toes. I believe this country should worry about other things, recession, teen pregnancy, corporate greed etc and if you are a true believer God will definitely see that. I believe as you said that we are all entitled to our own beliefs and you are corerct , it isn't our right to be pushing anything on anybody else. I embrace my Christianity however I will not embrace someone trying to tell others what religion is right and which on is wrong as they are all branches of each other. Keep on writing as this is very interesting.
That's an admirable attitude, AEvans. I think too that most of a country's problems are regardless of beliefs. Living together means accepting, even celebrating the differences. Thank you very much *blush*
You my friend are ever so welcome :)
Likewise AEvans *smil*
ABSENCE OF EVIDENCE IS NOT EVIDENCE OF ABSENCE, if you know what im trying to say. to those whose minds are rigid and narrow and dont look beyond the surface or read between the lines, it seems logical that God does not exist. but to those who are broad minded and have a certain level of intellect God does exist. im only 17 and i already made my choice to believe in the Almighty because i have witnessed miracles and a lot of other things. Please do not insult God if you dont believe in him because you will end up insulting us.
Absence of evidence is not evidence of absence, I agree. This is however not evidence of presence either. I respect your choice, Wudie. It’s not my choice though. As a matter of fact, I haven’t made a choice in this respect. I like to see myself as having a broad and open mind and a certain level of intellect, yet to me the existence of your God is not a given.
HI, YOU LEFT OUT 'BHAGAVAT GEETA' HINDU RELIGIOUS BOOK. MAY GET ANSWER TO ALL YOUR QUESTIONS.
Hello,
In the hub I haven't mentioned any books. This is a letter to God, or Jahweh, Allah, Shiva, the Universe or whatever name you want to use.
Like in everything else, an open mind status would be healthy would it not be? It will certainly not hinder progress. The idea is to collectively come to a conclusion. Am I right?
Well, I agree that an open mind is healthy, quicksand. Not so sure about collectively coming to a conclusion, though. I think we all draw our own conclusions, based on our own experiences. As long as we respect each other's conclusions, there's nothing wrong with that in my opinion.
Of course Ananta, each one of us sees things differently based on our experiences and personal biases. We come to conclusions which are based on our levels of understandings. Thus I agree with you that there should be no compulsion thrust upon any individual to beieve or disbelieve in any concept.
Well as for collectively coming to conclusions, I was referring to scientific matters only! LOL! Sorry I had forgotten to state that. :)
Even in the field of science it often proves hard to come to a collective conclusion, Quicksand. I think each science has its own schools of thought. Which I consider to be a good thing as this provides more viewpoints to consider.
You probably have some concept that I fail to understand. My idea of collective conclusions springs from the fact that one scientist follows up on the discoveries of another and it continues that way. Maybe the phrase "collective conclusions" is not just right.
I came across a hub where some brilliant people were arguing over a stupid topic like religion. I was wondering what the result would be if those brilliant people convert the argument into a discussion. A discussion would enable indexing all similar issues, or putting them into some kind of sequence, then use logic or the laws of ethics by means of which you either accept or discard. Then present these findings to all, with no compulsion to accept or reject. It's as simple as that. In fact, childishly simple!
In this case, the term "collective conclusions" makes a little more sense, does it not? Anyways, I find your ideas interesting. Have a great weekend, Ananta. :):):)
Ok, I get where you're going at. In that context colective conclusions sounds nice, actually. BUt it does take brillinat minds. I Myself for instance don't see houw you could put together creationism and evolution.
First of all let me apologise for referring to religion as a stupid topic. The reason I did so was that everyone in that discussion was deliberately disagreeing with the other and drawing attention only to their own opinion.
As for creationism and evolution, I do not know the topic, so I am not qualified to comment. Were you referring to the beginnings, and to Darwin's theories?
The biblical story of the beginning of time and the history of the human race, vs Darwin's theory, indeed Quicksand.
Well, Ananta, I do believe in the big bang, and the big crunch. In between I believe in Adam & Eve.
If Darwyn's theories were true there would be no monkeys around! LOL!
I would be very much interested in knowing your views on this.
To me, both are theories. Nothing more than that. Which means they will both have flaws. The big bang theory sounds more feasible to me than the Adam and Eve story. Inbreeding results in weak offspring, we know that. So the base for any species must have been a lot broader than two.
And we don’t know what these monkeys are developing into. If we humans are able to preserve them, who knows and some coming generation of orang utans may be ‘better’ than us. I don’t think that Darwin’s theory is about each and every species developing to be at the top of the food chain.
Adam and Eve would have been just generic names given to two different species, male and female. Adam does not signify any singularity. Eve does not either. If there was singularity involved, the theory that Adam had powers similar to that of superman has to be examined. We did not inherit these powers due to the "weakening" caused by the breeding process.
Whatever the case is, millions of years after the big bang, when the earth had transformed into an inhabitable planet, then one of the two things happened. Either Adam and Eve appeared, or the apes that Darwin speaks of, appeared.
However, in Darwin's theory there is a missing link. Of course in the Adam and Eve theory there are no missing links, making the climate more conducive to arrive at a collective conclusion! (wink!)
Like you said, theories all have flaws, but there is no harm in discussing. The reason why I believe in Adam and Eve is that the A & E theory has an edge over Darwin's theory.
Interesting viewpoint, quicksand. Although I feel that Darwin's theory kicks in earlier than the appearance of apes and humans. Whichever it is, until now they're both theories, which makes them both (or some combination or a completely different theory) possible. Thing is, we just don't know. And I can live with that.
Me too! Let us know if you stumble upon any new ideas. :)
Will do :)
I enjoyed your letter, I have seen others.
I am not going to attempt to be polite about this, as much as politeness, live and let live is it seems highly valued in the comments I have read on this hub.
The god I read about in the bible was a neurotic, psychopathic lunatic who would not be safe crossing the road in front of me.
Onmiscienct and omnipotent my arse.
How about dangerously dumb arsed and vengeful. The god of the bible and the quoran could walk under your carpet with a high hat on and not leave a bump.
If I had a god it would not be a pathetic killer and a psychopathic one at that!
Grow up godbotherers the world is not 6000 year old or flat, and if I have an invisible friend it would not be a war mongering little turd like the biblical one.
By the way bible bashers, don't bother to pray for my soul, as a born again christian (in my early twenties)I am saved anyway no matter what I say according to John.
Glad you got that off your chest, Earnesthub? *smile*
I’m not going to agree with you, nor will I disagree. I too have my opinion about the way God an Allah are presented at times. But that says everything about these (human) presentations and doesn’t really tell us much about those gods.
Fabulous out-loud reflection, Ananta65! I echo your thoughts completely, I also don't know, and I am perfectly OK with not knowing, I don't need this particular question answered.
On respect, I think you nailed that bit down masterfully. Very well done, and thanks for a great read!
Thank you very much for your comment, Elena. Thank you for reading.
I like your article, Ananta. I believe that very alive intelligence (we call God) is in everybody and everything. So, we are the ones who have to do something to change the world. Each of us. With power of love and positivity within us.
God to whom you addressed your letter is in you, me, in our harts and "higher consciousness" of humanity, and CAN be activated with a little bit of effort...
Situation is not hopeless: when we work with power of love, compassion and positive visualisations, minority change majority. Power of love is the strongest one. I do believe in humanity, no matter what temporary circumstances look like, there are SO MANY positive examples in this beautiful world... and ...people will change gradually.
in Love& Light, happy New Year
I certainly like your attitude, Tatjana. It's true, humanity and respect can be activated and I just hope more people will do so. It would be nice if (for example) both Israel and Hamas would read letters such as this one and act upon it, wouldn't it?
This is just my opinion, no harm done to anybody and take it lightly. - If God is really up there watching over us, HE shall have responded even before the world is created for HE is almighty and omnipresent. Yet until now we are still facing all sort of problems, war, discrimination, hunger, sickness, calamities and etc. Human are created from the image of God. Does God possess the bad quatlity that we have?
I don't dare to say that God does not exist but what I believe deeply is we are all consciousness, that created the image of God to rule over us and God changes along as we change our perception. God once was perceived as fiery and like to punish but soon God changed to be one that only know LOVE.
So are YOU listening?
I like to think that I am. I like to think that I have an open mind. But who's to tell?
|
XYZ sealed hair metal cd LETTER TO GOD terry ilous
Current Bid: $14.88
|
|
Children's Letters to God by Eric Marshall H/C Book
Current Bid: $.99
|
| No Photo |
I Had No Father but God: A Personal Letter to My Sons,
Current Bid: $1.00
|
|
Love Letters to God - Deeper Intimacy New Book
Current Bid: $1.75
|
|
Children's Letters to God
Price: $3.09
List Price: $7.95 |
|
Dear God: Children's Letters to God
Price: $2.45
List Price: $10.00 |
|
Pets' Letters To God
Price: $8.82
List Price: $9.95 |
|
Love Letters to God: Deeper Intimacy through Written Prayer
Price: $4.88
List Price: $16.99 |
talented_ink says:
17 months ago
Wow! I'm not sure if this is how you feel or if this is another creative writing exercise for you. Either way, I know that there are some people who will gladly condemn you to hell for what you've said, but if they do, then they are being self-righteous and egotistical in their "religious" beliefs. I understand what you're saying about God needing to step in since things are so royally screwed up now, but from everything I've read and been taught, the state of the world the way it is has been expected. In the Bible, I've read the book of Revelations and it speaks of the Antichrist, the rapture, and so much death and destruction it hurts my heart to think of what is being foretold. The bottom line is that even if you don't want to read or think about what is being said in the Bible, God has given every one of us free will. This means that every one of us has the power to build or destroy this world that we've been given. I hope I've been able to shed some light for you, but the main thing is that I wanted to seriously answer this with no praise or condemnation, but with respect for what you've said.