Throughout most of my life, I've considered myself to be a Christian. I've prayed before, and I've even had some prayers answered. I've never been one of those openly religious people. I don't preach my faith or beliefs to others. I don't comment on religion unless I'm asked. I don't try to save people, or convert them.
I do not like 82% of Christians.
I believe everyone is entitled to think and believe however they wish to. I believe that you're not wrong for thinking or feeling something, no matter what it is. Your actions, should you carry them out, may be wrong, but not your thoughts. According to the religion that I believe in, which is Christianity and the Christian God, we're supposed to respect everyone, and not pass judgement on others. That is supposed to be God's job. I agree with that.
So, why is it that so many Christians try to shove their religion down the throats of others? They have rallies. They go from door to door asking if people have been saved. They try to find ways to bribe others to come to their church. They tell people unless they follow God's commandments, they're going to be damned into a horrible afterlife of everlasting fire and brimstone.
Where the fuck does it say in the Christian religion that you're supposed to do that? How is telling people that unless they do something, they're guaranteed to spend eternity burning in hell open minded and showing love?
Why is it that when you go to Church, the pastors tell you who to vote for? They tell you what's right and wrong. When did Christianity become a cult? What the hell gives these people the right to make the judgement that's supposed to be reserved for God? These are supposed to be the men of God -- they should be encouraging their followers to show love and compassion to their fellow man, to help out others, and to wish the best for everyone. Even if they don't believe in God.
*shakes head* It's disappointing to see things like that.
However, it's even worse to see people who use religion to twist others to their cause. George Bush, the previous president, won a lot of support by being on the "Side of God". Nevermind that we have something called the "Separation of Church and State". Hell, the governor of Texas called for an enormous prayer ceremony.
Religion is not meant to control others. It's not supposed to be a way to play on the emotions of people. It's supposed to teach love and compassion, to give people something to believe in when they feel they have nothing else. It gives people hope, when there would otherwise be no hope. It is sure as hell not meant to take away the hope of people by saying they're going to be damned to hell for eternity.
Yes, I'm religious. I'm Christian. I believe in God. I don't believe in what most people do in the name of Christianity.