The Dom

[HomeschoolCowgirl]

Christmis or Christmus?

Christmas? I feel like I recognize something about what you're saying, but I can't put my finger on it.

Dom

She means, do you pronounce the word "Christmas" with a schwa or short "i" in the last syllable?

[Dom]

Christmis or Christmus?

Christmas? I feel like I recognize something about what you're saying, but I can't put my finger on it.

Dom

She means, do you pronounce the word "Christmas" with a schwa or short "i" in the last syllable?

Oh. WELL THAT WAS NOT EVIDENT. Ahem. Thank you for enlightening me...

Kriss-miss.

Dom

[HomeschoolCowgirl]

You're so welcome.
Cats or dogs?
Toads or frogs?
Camping on a mountain or swimming in a bog?
Splenda or real sugar in your tea?
Would you rather live in a tent with full working wireless communication or in a palace with only patchy wifi?
Would you rather ride (on horses) for an hour with a guy you sorta like or walk for an hour with a friend (girl)?

[Dom]

Cats or dogs?

Dogs. I've never had a cat, but they're cute. Dogs and puppies are awesommmme.

Toads or frogs?

Frogs, they're smoother.

Camping on a mountain or swimming in a bog?

Mountain, always.

Splenda or real sugar in your tea?

Ew. Real sugar, f'shaw!

Would you rather live in a tent with full working wireless communication or in a palace with only patchy wifi?

If I could transport the people I care about to the palace, I'd be fine with patchy wi-fi. If not, I'd take the tent.

Would you rather ride (on horses) for an hour with a guy you sorta like or walk for an hour with a friend (girl)?

Well you put horses into the equation, that skews my answer. I would rather ride horses with a guy I kinda like.

Dom

[Miss Friendship]

I assume you meant to type, "wasn't offensive". But it is. To every victim out there. Belittling their pain by saying their attacker suffers worse is... Yeah, not going there.

No, I was agreeing it was offensive from your point of view.

All of your answers go back to the same thing, which proves that one, you aren't really listening with an open mind, and two, you're just parroting what you've been taught...

Soooo, not coming to your side of things is not listening with an open mind? I am listening with a "trying to understand your perspective" kind of mind. As far as "I'm open to considering God doesn't exist," not really. Why? Because I know He exists as much as I know you do. I have never seen you. But the evidence is there. Same with God, although even more so. The resurrection of His son, Creation that is all all around us. He has put his mark on every human being by starting them out with a conscience. Why would one need to feel guilty when they lie or steal? This is why atheists have morals. Morals say there is "good" which is acknowledging there is evil. If we were created by random chance, then nothing is evil or good. It's just however we can best survive. And yet, morals are ingrained into our very beings. Why? This points to a God of morals. Science teaches us that everything created has a creator. And yet, how can they go against this very simple principal when they look at life? Well they do. Why? Because people know that to accept the existence of God, one must also accept the realization that we must do as He says. So they came up with another option to explain away creation. Proof for God is all around you. But you won't even consider accepting it with an open mind, because you hate the God that you were taught and raised to believe in. You do NOT want to serve Him. And it's easier on yourself to say He does not exist, then to accept His existence and then refuse to serve Him.

Nope. I did get one, had it for a week, then I decided to stick it to the man and the industry, and returned it. I have a DumbPhone again now. And am perfectly happy with it. It cost twenty bucks at Wal-Mart and does everything I need it to, and I never pay a cent for anything I don't use. Everyone I know has cell phone bills in the hundreds. I spend ten bucks a month.

How do you do skype then?

Whatever my boss suggests he wishes me to perform.

What kind of activities does he normally wish you to perform?

Clearly I'm related to Blitz, all these one-word answers.

I haven't done much more than skim the debate board, so I'll have to go with Countess, she's been putting up a mighty fight against my heathen beliefs in this thread. Think I finally wore her down though, poor thing's giving up in PM and on here doesn't look so promising, either.

I didn't exactly "give up." I had more of the feeling of "washing my hands of when a person refuses to accept the truth and move on to new territory." That is biblical you know. I am willing to repeat the same points over and over again if you keep using the same ones again and again yourself.

What color are the walls of your room?

Would you get married if you decided you couldn't live without the guy and that was your only option of staying with him?

Do you have any close friends who are Christians?

What was the best friend you had growing up in the brainwashing home of Christians like?

[Dom]

I was agreeing it was offensive from your point of view.

And most victims'.

Soooo, not coming to your side of things is not listening with an open mind?

No, the way in which you ignore questions, give the same canned answers over and over again, and clearly miss vast points, implies you're not listening/understanding/actually "in" the conversation.

I know He exists as much as I know you do. I have never seen you. But the evidence is there. Same with God, although even more so. The resurrection of His son, Creation that is all all around us.

You didn't see the resurrection. The world that exists around us doesn't prove that some invisible being created it, dear. You draw the strangest conclusions. OH LOOK. There's a bowl of spaghetti. I bet it was sent down from the sky by the Flying Spaghetti Monster. PROOF!!!

Why would one need to feel guilty when they lie or steal?

Like I said, morals and God are separate.

Because people know that to accept the existence of God, one must also accept the realization that we must do as He says.

haha No? Your God supposedly gave free will, so we don't have to accept jack or do a thing.

Proof for God is all around you. But you won't even consider accepting it with an open mind, because you hate the God that you were taught and raised to believe in.

I fully accepted it for about 25 years. I don't hate the God I was raised to believe in. I hate the world, and if God created it and allowed it, then I, in turn, would hate Him.

it's easier on yourself to say He does not exist, then to accept His existence and then refuse to serve Him.

It's not easier. Simply more sensical. Either God is not loving, or God doesn't exist. I see no evidence for a hateful God. I see copious amounts of evidence for no God. Such as the freaking chaos on this disgusting planet.

How do you do skype then?

On my computer.

Whatever my boss suggests he wishes me to perform.

What kind of activities does he normally wish you to perform?

It varies greatly.

"washing my hands of when a person refuses to accept the truth and move on to new territory." That is biblical you know.

So giving up, with God's permission. Nice.

What color are the walls of your room?

They are two-tone with a gray base.

Would you get married if you decided you couldn't live without the guy and that was your only option of staying with him?

What, if he gave me an ultimatum of marry or break up? I mean, first off, that doesn't sound like a guy I would be interested in being with. And if I agreed simply to retain him, that would be for all the wrong reasons so if he accepted it, he would be a pretty messed up dude.

Do you have any close friends who are Christians?

This question was asked before by some Countess personthing.

Do you have any close friends who are Christians?

I do. And a lot of my relatives. Obviously my parents...but I haven't seen or spoken to my dad since the divorce.

What was the best friend you had growing up in the brainwashing home of Christians like?

She was my age, her family was also Christian, but nothing like my family. Her and her sister were allowed to wear bikinis at age 6. The mother suntanned. The father got a vasectomy. All things my family was strictly against.

Dom

[Blitz]

Interspersed between your life as in the power outages.
*rolls his eyes* never crossed my mind lol.
Countess could be said to be one of the best debaters... I wouldn't agree.. She's too wordy in my opinion and other such faults. And really hates to admit she is wrong. And way holy when she gives up .
Oh I'll like you the songs when I get on my computer.
What is your favorite pasta?
Why are you so good at interrogations?
Why do I need your permission to do anything?

[Dom]

What would you do if you had to spend half of your life without electricity? Interspersed between your life as in the power outages.

Move. But really. If I couldn't communicate with certain people online with power, I would move to them.

*rolls his eyes* never crossed my mind lol.

What never crossed your mind, QUOTES man, QUOTES!

Countess could be said to be one of the best debaters... I wouldn't agree.. She's too wordy in my opinion and other such faults. And really hates to admit she is wrong. And way holy when she gives up .

Oooh, cruel. I never said she was the best on the board, I simply said she's the best I've experienced on my thread...'cause she's the only one who's taken up the position. But I certainly agree with you that she hates to admit when she's wrong...it goes farther than that, really...she won't even respond to something if she doesn't have a pre-made comeback for it. THERE Countess, is it better for your delicate sensitivities if I talk about you in public?

Oh I'll like you the songs when I get on my computer.

Coo'.

What is your favorite pasta?

I love penne noodles the best... I love macaroni and cheese, fettuccine alfredo, penne rosa...

Why are you so good at interrogations?

We're sorry, Chief Inspector Dom is unavailable. Please leave a message after the suspicious click of the recording.

Why do I need your permission to do anything?

Because that's how this works.

I'll hit yours after worrrrk.

Dom

[Blitz]

As in referring to you being preggers. *Rolls his eyes*.

Aye, her arguments can be really repetitive like when we were debating Harry Potter and LOTRs.

Well actually I'll pm you the links.

Why is that how it works? You aren't my momma.

Why do you never get on the chat early enough?
You know I've lived at least 1/4th of my life without power?
Do you know how scary it is when your generator won't start?
What devices do you own?
How many cousins do you have?

[Miss Friendship]

No, the way in which you ignore questions, give the same canned answers over and over again, and clearly miss vast points, implies you're not listening/understanding/actually "in" the conversation.

I feel the same way when my points are rudely ignored. I made a vast point about Jesus and that was not even considered because "God is such a tyrant." Which somehow makes every thing I try to explain of no effect.

You didn't see the resurrection.

Do you know how many things you believe in without ever seeing? Do you believe South Korea exists? Have you ever been there to know? What about the galaxies that NASA tells you are there? You believe God doesn't exist, how do you know that? You have no proof that He doesn't, except for an awful world that you hate. I have at least offered more than that.

The world that exists around us doesn't prove that some invisible being created it, dear. You draw the strangest conclusions. OH LOOK. There's a bowl of spaghetti. I bet it was sent down from the sky by the Flying Spaghetti Monster. PROOF!!!

Huh. If I see a bowl of spaghetti I don't conclude it just somehow LEAPT INTO EXISTENCE. I conclude someone made the bowl, and someone made the food. CREATORS ARE OUT THERE.

Like I said, morals and God are separate.

So you make all the judgment calls on what is truth?

haha No? Your God supposedly gave free will, so we don't have to accept jack or do a thing.

Right. My point is that if you acknowledge there is a God, that generally means you have to grudgingly acknowledge He is in control of a lot of things, including your destiny.

It's not easier. Simply more sensical. Either God is not loving, or God doesn't exist. I see no evidence for a hateful God. I see copious amounts of evidence for no God. Such as the freaking chaos on this disgusting planet.

So you hate the world and all the sin, do you? Do you know the Bible commands Christians to "Love not the world?"

What, if he gave me an ultimatum of marry or break up? I mean, first off, that doesn't sound like a guy I would be interested in being with. And if I agreed simply to retain him, that would be for all the wrong reasons so if he accepted it, he would be a pretty messed up dude.

Nope. I was thinking more of a "he has to go travel the world and if you want to stay with him legally, you must marry him"

Countess could be said to be one of the best debaters... I wouldn't agree.. She's too wordy in my opinion and other such faults. And really hates to admit she is wrong.

What would you say if I agreed with that? Would that defeat the purpose? Criticism always has some truth.

Oooh, cruel. I never said she was the best on the board, I simply said she's the best I've experienced on my thread...'cause she's the only one who's taken up the position. But I certainly agree with you that she hates to admit when she's wrong...it goes farther than that, really...she won't even respond to something if she doesn't have a pre-made comeback for it. THERE Countess, is it better for your delicate sensitivities if I talk about you in public?

I have never claimed to be a good debater. And yes, I hate admitting when I am wrong, but IT HAS HAPPENED BEFORE. So not like I can't do it. I am just not wrong here. Even Blitz would agree with me on this subject. And most of my arguments are on the spot. I don't have any pre-made comebacks except a few basic principals.

Are you the same way online as IRL? How do you act differently?

Favorite TV series? (Or did I ask this?)

Do you play any computer games? Which one is your favorite?

If your Dad died, would you ever regret never speaking to him? Did you ever miss him?

[TigerShadow]

The world that exists around us doesn't prove that some invisible being created it, dear.

The world that exists around us doesn't prove that some invisible being created it, dear. You draw the strangest conclusions. OH LOOK. There's a bowl of spaghetti. I bet it was sent down from the sky by the Flying Spaghetti Monster. PROOF!!!

Let's refrain from condescending pet names and mockery, please.

[Dom]

Why is that how it works?

Perhaps I enjoy being in control.

Why do you never get on the chat early enough?

The proper question is, "Why do you never get on the chat?" I haven't been on since the day I registered here. You haven't been missing me.

You know I've lived at least 1/4th of my life without power?

You're really obsessed with this power thing, aren't you. It's okay, I probably would be, too, in your situation. That's really crazy though. I know I and many others long for a "simpler life" but I don't think we want it in the form of randomly losing all our power. That really must be unpleasant, I'm sorry.

Do you know how scary it is when your generator won't start?

No idea. Why is it scary? If you lived in frigid snow I could understand worrying about freezing...

What devices do you own?

A desktop computer, a very unsmartphone, a decade-old iPod, and my sister-in-law's old Nook.

How many cousins do you have?

I grew up around twelve of my cousins. I have a lot more from my dad's side in another state, but I've only met them once. I have an insanely enormous family tree, and I go through spurts of being completely obsessed with it.

Let's refrain from condescending pet names and mockery, please.

I've been calling Countess by pet names since I met her. But in that context, I can see why it sounded/was condescending, and I apologize to Countess. The latter part was not mockery, it's a real thing - Google "The Flying Spaghetti Monster". It's a parody.

I made a vast point about Jesus and that was not even considered

I had to re-ask you some things you didn't respond to. Feel free to re-ask me if there's something you really wanted a response to, but I didn't give. I can't respond to everything. I was responding very fully until the last one, I just reached the end of my patience because this has started to feel like I fight and I have zero desire to do that. We disagree and I said early on that this is pretty pointless to discuss.

You didn't see the resurrection.

Do you know how many things you believe in without ever seeing? Do you believe South Korea exists? Have you ever been there to know? What about the galaxies that NASA tells you are there?

I've been waiting for you to bring this up. Because you're absolutely right. We take it on faith that MILLIONS of things exist, that we haven't personally witnessed or experienced. But there's one enormous difference between that, and religion. I, personally, do not know that South Korea exists...but believing that it does has zero effect on the rest of my life. I don't mold my thoughts, actions, dress, personality, and every aspect of my being, on my "faith" that South Korea exists. But you do, with God.

Like I said, morals and God are separate.

So you make all the judgment calls on what is truth?

Is that not what you've been doing?

if you acknowledge there is a God, that generally means you have to grudgingly acknowledge He is in control of a lot of things, including your destiny.

But I don't acknowledge there is a God.

So you hate the world and all the sin, do you? Do you know the Bible commands Christians to "Love not the world?"

Are you saying I'm more Christian than you? 'Cause you seem to love the world a heckuva lot more than I do.

I was thinking more of a "he has to go travel the world and if you want to stay with him legally, you must marry him"

*shrug* I mean, legality doesn't exactly scare the tar out of me.

I am just not wrong here. Even Blitz would agree with me on this subject.

Aren't you? WOULD HE?

I don't have any pre-made comebacks except a few basic principals.

A few basic principles? Your denomination appears to be the epitome of legalistic. "Basic" is about as far from you as it gets. No offense... And this is why I say Christians are blind. You don't even realize how deep in it you are. You sound 100% incapable of thinking outside the Christian box. And that's okay. I've been there. I don't blame you. I don't think it's your fault. I just think it's sad.

Are you the same way online as IRL? How do you act differently?

You'd have to ask someone who knows me in person, I suppose. I'm sure I'm different. I express myself better in text than I do in voice, but I've been getting better for a few years. I'm definitely just as flirty and sarcastic in real life as I am here.

Favorite TV series? (Or did I ask this?)

You did not. So You Think You Can Dance

Do you play any computer games? Which one is your favorite?

I've played a bit of World of Warcraft, Neverwinter Nights 2, Pokemon, Runescape, and I just bought Borderlands 2. The first would be my favorite so far. When I was a kid I loved The Castle of Dr. Brain, Spiritual Warfare, Need for Speed, Sim City 2000, Chip's Challenge, Jezzball, Mouse Trap, Mixed Genetics, and Solitaire.

If your Dad died, would you ever regret never speaking to him? Did you ever miss him?

I doubt it. I used to imagine him dying a lot, and it never bothered me. I have never missed him since the day we told him we were leaving, and drove away.

Dom

[Wakko]

What's your favorite Christmas movie?

Do you like the Charlie Brown Christmas special?

What's your favorite Christmas song?

Do you like all of these Christmas related questions?

[Dom]

What's your favorite Christmas movie?

White Christmas

Do you like the Charlie Brown Christmas special?

I do, it's nostalgic. I wasn't a fan when I was little though, I found it slow-moving.

What's your favorite Christmas song?

"O Holy Night" and "What Child is This" are extremely, extremely high up there.

Do you like all of these Christmas related questions?

Yes, I LOVE Christmas.

Dom

[Miss Friendship]

I've been calling Countess by pet names since I met her. But in that context, I can see why it sounded/was condescending, and I apologize to Countess.

Just so you know, it did not strike me as condescending at all. I don't think I even noticed.

I just reached the end of my patience because this has started to feel like I fight and I have zero desire to do that. We disagree and I said early on that this is pretty pointless to discuss.

That is getting to be my feeling to, but if you accuse me of "wearing thin" then I will keep on fighting the bloody fight.

I don't mold my thoughts, actions, dress, personality, and every aspect of my being, on my "faith" that South Korea exists. But you do, with God.

That would be because South Korea is not my Creator. God is God. If He exists, then we are connected to Him in a way not even remotely comparable to a country. Which of course, you know.

Is that not what you've been doing?

I hope not. I mean, I want every judgment call I make on truth to be from something higher than I. We can't have a loose everyone-decides-what-truth-is. Otherwise truth is not absolute. And I believe truth is absolute. And so I base that on something that I believe is trustworthy.

But I don't acknowledge there is a God.

Right. You don't. But if YOU DID, wouldn't that have to be your conclusion?

Are you saying I'm more Christian than you? 'Cause you seem to love the world a heckuva lot more than I do.

Just saying you agree with God on that. How do I love the world?

WOULD HE?

He does believe in a God, yes.

A few basic principles? Your denomination appears to be the epitome of legalistic. "Basic" is about as far from you as it gets. No offense... And this is why I say Christians are blind. You don't even realize how deep in it you are. You sound 100% incapable of thinking outside the Christian box. And that's okay. I've been there. I don't blame you. I don't think it's your fault. I just think it's sad.

Ok, would you think about it from my perspective for a moment? If God DID exist. And if YOU HAD vowed to serve Him as long as you exist on this earth. If your whole purpose on this earth was to fulfill His calling and to build His Kingdom, wouldn't you gladly live by the guidelines provided in scripture? I mean, to complain about that is so below the point. WHO CARES. Legalistic, fine. I don't care what term I get. I OBEY BECAUSE IT GIVES MY MASTER PLEASURE. By that, I prove my love for Him. But no, you are so far removed from that, you can't possibly understand. Or you understand from a condescending "been there, done that." No, I don't think you have. Or if you did, you have forgotten. You are NOT me, and never were me, you never lived my life.

So I am 100% incapable of thinking outside of the Christian box? That's because once I step out of it, I lose all my direction. I mean think. If there is no God, there is therefore no purpose to live other than one screaming life stuffed with as much pleasure as you can possibly give yourself. Morals have no roots. It really doesn't matter in the end whether I help the person next to me. We are all going to...rot...decay. Our existence is pointless. There is no founding absolute truth outside of Christianity. There is just one tangle of different religions all designed to explain what truth is. And yet, there is no yardstick of truth to determine which one is correct. Their leaders all stayed dead. I know you said yourself there is no attraction in that kind of life. But it's more than that. From your perspective, it doesn't matter what you do what your life right? You aren't accountable to anyone. So why should you care if I choose to serve a God that doesn't exist? You say it's "sad" I believe the way I do. Well, I am not exactly blind, and I HAVE chosen this.

Why should we all have to go to your side of things? Do you realize that you have just acknowledged there is a battle? That there is truth. Something makes you want to convince me that I am in the wrong. If God reallllly didn't exist, it wouldn't matter what I do with my life. But since God does exist, and has given all humans the desire to live in truth and not in blindness, that is why there is a constant effort to convert people to our point of view. Can't you see? Everything about us humans is stamped with God's design.

Do you ever listen to Christian songs now? If so, what kind of a feeling does it give you?

If God showed you a miracle, would you believe in Him? What kind of miracle would it take? Would an angel do? Have you ever asked God to prove Himself to you?

What was your favorite movie as a child?

What do you sing? Soprano? Alto?

What would you do if you knew I knew the whole story with Blitz and Mandy?

[Dom]

Just so you know, it did not strike me as condescending at all. I don't think I even noticed.

Good. *points and gestures to Tiger*

That is getting to be my feeling to, but if you accuse me of "wearing thin" then I will keep on fighting the bloody fight.

But it's so fun to tease you by accusing you of giving up, wearing thin, and not being godly.

God is God. If He exists, then we are connected to Him in a way not even remotely comparable to a country.

If. If He exists. You are basing your entire life on an "if". That is all I'm trying to point out. If you're right, then yes, you're RIGHT, holy, better, wise, etc. But if you're wrong, you and every other religious person just wasted their entire existence on something that doesn't exist. Obviously, one can never get that opportunity back.

We can't have a loose everyone-decides-what-truth-is. Otherwise truth is not absolute. And I believe truth is absolute.

I am undecided on the absoluteness of truth, right, and wrong. There are a few that I think are blatantly obvious, but I'm sure I also break "rules" that others think are blatantly against what is "right".

so I base that on something that I believe is trustworthy.

I base it on what I believe to be trustworthy, as well. My moral compass. I know we disagree on morals and God, but... Not everyone needs a map or a GPS to find their way around. Most people have an innate sense of direction. Some stronger than others, some not at all. The existence of a master map doesn't mean that direction does or doesn't exist. We don't need someone to tell us everything. No one needs God to know that raping an innocent person is wrong. We just know. Some simply do not care.

if YOU DID, wouldn't that have to be your conclusion?

That would depend on religion, or even denomination. God being in control of destiny is a highly debated concept. That gets into predestination which is a subject I was always taught to avoid like the plague, ha. Obviously there are some people who believe that nothing we do truly affects our souls, that either we have been "chosen" or we have not. Some believe that God did create us, but then abandoned us to our own devices and has not only no control over what we do on earth, but not even any knowledge of it. *shrug* So if I believed in God's existence, no, it wouldn't automatically translate that He is in control of me/my destiny. But if it satisfies you, yes, if I went with your views, or even my previous views, I would believe He is in control. I just don't think that's a big deal or relevant, because again, each denomination and religion has vastly different thoughts on that, all based on what their forefathers thought and taught. Religion is just a superstition to me. It means nothing to me that you or I were taught one way, and twenty other religions or denominations were taught another. In fact, that's one of the very things that proves to me that it's all a lie. Even other religions have twisted versions of stories from the Bible in them. Their own Noah stories. Tweaked and molded to fit their beliefs. Stuff like that. It's like the game Telephone, where one person repeats something to the next until it becomes all garbled at the end. Religions all spawn from the need for life to make sense. How they each try to force it to make sense comes out differently, in whatever way fits their needs. They break apart from each other and multiply into tinier and tinier sects because no one can agree on anything, because people pick and choose what they want to believe or not. I realize you feel your denomination isn't like that, and you did give me a good burn when you proved that you do, in fact, try to follow the scripture as a whole (or the New Testament, anyway). But in general, look at the vast amount of denominations and variations...that doesn't point to universal truth, it points to millions of people picking and choosing what they think is right and wrong. Exactly the way I pick and choose what is right or wrong. Exactly like the atheists. Exactly like everyone. Because that's what humans do, whether they mean to, realize it, or admit it. It's what we all do.

How do I love the world?

By trying so hard to save it.

Ok, would you think about it from my perspective for a moment? If God DID exist. And if YOU HAD vowed to serve Him as long as you exist on this earth. If your whole purpose on this earth was to fulfill His calling and to build His Kingdom, wouldn't you gladly live by the guidelines provided in scripture?

We weren't as 150% as your denomination and family (which is odd to say, it has honestly been rare in my life to actually interact with anyone who was raised MORE strict than I was, but of course I knew IN THEORY that they existed). But yes, I would have tried, and I did try. "Gladly", no. I don't really like being told what to do. But I thought I was meant to give in.

I OBEY BECAUSE IT GIVES MY MASTER PLEASURE. By that, I prove my love for Him.

You sound like a sub. And yes, like you always go back to saying - if you're right, then you're right, and you're doing exactly what you should be doing. But if you're wrong, I still think it's sad, and a waste.

So I am 100% incapable of thinking outside of the Christian box? That's because once I step out of it, I lose all my direction.

*nods deeply* Exactly. You can't conceive that it isn't true. Your whole world falls apart at the very thought. Despite how irritable it makes you, I HAVE been there, done that. It's a little offensive that you try to accuse me of not having been like you are. I know I haven't lived your life, but neither have you lived mine. It is fair and perfectly acceptable for me to take what you're saying, recognize it from my own past feelings, thoughts, and beliefs, and say, "That's pretty much exactly how I felt/thought/believed." I'm not sure why that makes you angry. I think it's because you struggle to believe that someone could "fall so far". But they do, and I have, and I think I have fallen into the truth, not away from it. Is that inconceivable, based on how I used to believe? Yep. Yes it is. Even my 17-year-old self, even my 23-year-old self, would be HORRIFIED at who I am right now. And in utter disbelief that it is possible. But it's possible. My background wasn't identical to yours, at all, no. But my belief was every bit as firm as yours. I will freely admit that you are more knowledgeable than I was at your age. Because obviously you've been encouraged to debate and strengthen your beliefs. Props to your parents for that. But my faith was just as strong as yours, my unwavering belief in God just the same. I think it scares you that something so unwavering, could waver. But it can, it does, it has. And I don't regret it, because, just like you, I think I have found the truth. Doesn't everyone? Every religion or lack of religion thinks they have found The One Truth. 90% of us are wrong. It could be me. It could be you. We'll never know until we both die and experience what happens, or doesn't happen, then.

If there is no God, there is therefore no purpose to live other than one screaming life stuffed with as much pleasure as you can possibly give yourself.

You are obviously speaking as someone steeped in dogma. Have you actually spent time WATCHING non-religious people, not just arguing with them? Do you honestly think that Christians or religious people are the only ones who try to help people? Who give of themselves? Who are caring, selfless, generous, and kind? Have you actually EXPERIENCED that everyone who doesn't believe in God only tries to stuff their lives with pleasure and nothing else? Because that sure as heck isn't my experience. I have met horrific Christians who ooze hatred out of every pore. I have met people who never even considered the existence of God, but spend as much time as you trying to make a difference in peoples' lives. Morals. Have. Nothing. To. Do. With. Religion. You can't understand this because they are fused for you. Is God the only reason you give a about the human race? If so, that's fake care, fake love. Doing it "for the right reasons". I care about people because I CARE. Not because some God tells me I should. No one needs God to think outside themselves. Life is not about stuffing it with pleasure. We don't need God to tell us that.

It really doesn't matter in the end whether I help the person next to me. We are all going to...rot...decay.

Mmhm. It doesn't matter, "eternally". Because yes, we're all going to end up dead. But that doesn't mean we don't help people anyway. Just because someone is dying doesn't stop us from holding their hand. It doesn't change a thing, but it is the loving thing to do.

why should you care if I choose to serve a God that doesn't exist

Same reason you care that I choose not to. We both believe to our core that we know something the other would benefit from knowing.

Do you realize that you have just acknowledged there is a battle?

There's always a battle between differing beliefs. Including stupid or meaningless beliefs. Humans are "king of the hill" creatures. It doesn't really matter what they disagree on, they will always try to defend and conquer. It doesn't mean anything spiritual.

Do you ever listen to Christian songs now? If so, what kind of a feeling does it give you?

Yes. The feelings vary. If it's songs I grew up with, I have a deep emotional attachment to them that makes me feel incredibly nostalgic, happy, and sad at the same time. If it's something I just love the music to, I enjoy it thoroughly, and yes, I'll still sing along to whatever misguided lyrics I memorized years ago. If it's something just disgustingly, blatantly, ridiculously gag-me as far as lyrics, it'll irritate me, but won't stop me from listening. I have a vast collection of Christian music and I still follow a Christian artist or two. Lyrics have never been as important to me as the music and the voice.

If God showed you a miracle, would you believe in Him? What kind of miracle would it take? Would an angel do? Have you ever asked God to prove Himself to you?

Sure. I'd be a complete idiot to stand here and say if something was proven to me, I wouldn't believe it. I may be stubborn, but I'm not unreasonable. Any miracle would work. I'm sure when I was a teenager I asked God to do all kinds of things. Since I lost my faith, no, I don't think I've asked Him to prove Himself to me...why would I, if I don't think He exists? Asking would be proof that I think it's possible. An act of desperation. I'm not desperate, I'm perfectly content in the truth I'm convinced I have found. Anyway, if your God is real, He knows my heart, He knows my reasons for being unable to believe in Him, and if He wanted me to, He could reveal Himself to me. He hasn't. That's on Him. If He exists. *whispers* He doesn't!

What was your favorite movie as a child?

I could have never picked a favorite. I loved 101 Dalmatians, The Lion King, The Man from Snowy River, and every John Wayne movie I could get my hands on.

What do you sing? Soprano? Alto?

I've never been tested. I can hit every note along with Charlotte Church and Celtic Woman...but no one wants to hear it.

What would you do if you knew I knew the whole story with Blitz and Mandy?

I would smirk and say you show your age sometimes.

Dom

[Helios]

Wow. Another person who doesn't believe in God. I'm seriously wondering why these kinds of forums even appeal to them. *smirks*

So, now I'll be nice. *grins cheekily*

How'd you lose your faith in God?

[Miss Friendship]

But it's so fun to tease you by accusing you of giving up, wearing thin, and not being godly.

Well I guess I know it's not true and that's all that counts.

If you're right, then yes, you're RIGHT, holy, better, wise, etc. But if you're wrong, you and every other religious person just wasted their entire existence on something that doesn't exist.

I guess I could point out that it is far greater risk to be wrong, then to be right.

Even other religions have twisted versions of stories from the Bible in them. Their own Noah stories.

Actually that is proof that the Biblical accounts have truth to them. If the Bible did happen, we should expect to find different accounts of it in other cultures.

But in general, look at the vast amount of denominations and variations...that doesn't point to universal truth, it points to millions of people picking and choosing what they think is right and wrong. Exactly the way I pick and choose what is right or wrong. Exactly like the atheists. Exactly like everyone. Because that's what humans do, whether they mean to, realize it, or admit it. It's what we all do.

Exactly. right. It's that way because people are different and they are all on their own individual personal journey. No two alike. And without absolute truth, we all will just pick what we want and go with that.

By trying so hard to save it.

By desiring to save it, I am saying something is wrong with it. It is true I love souls, I love people, I want to save them all. I literally used to lie awake at night and sob because of the vast number of unhappy people who didn't know God, who had no hope, who had no life, who were dying without Him. That feeling really has never left me. But as for the "world" as in the taunting sinful culture that Satan uses to ensnare all within it, I have no love for that. At all.

We weren't as 150% as your denomination and family (which is odd to say, it has honestly been rare in my life to actually interact with anyone who was raised MORE strict than I was, but of course I knew IN THEORY that they existed).

I never really considered myself ultra-conservative or "strict" until I was informed of it when I came here.

It's a little offensive that you try to accuse me of not having been like you are. I know I haven't lived your life, but neither have you lived mine. It is fair and perfectly acceptable for me to take what you're saying, recognize it from my own past feelings, thoughts, and beliefs, and say, "That's pretty much exactly how I felt/thought/believed." I'm not sure why that makes you angry.

And I apologize for that. I was getting the same sense that you really didn't understand where I was coming from, just as you didn't think I was understanding you, and I guess it made me upset. As for your life before, how you thought/believed, I am perfectly accepting that you had what I have to a degree at least, if not all. So yes.

I think it scares you that something so unwavering, could waver. But it can, it does, it has.

You might be right. It does frighten me that someone could turn so against God that there's basically no way to convince them. I am not afraid for myself, but for others I guess.

What would you say if you knew that you have strengthened my belief in God?

Ever went ice skating? Do you like snow?

Cold or hot?

What do you hope you are doing at age 40?

Do you consider yourself to be extra beautiful if you don't wear make up?

Why am I so tired? *faints into a heap on the floor and cannot be resurrected*

[Dom]

Wow. Another person who doesn't believe in God. I'm seriously wondering why these kinds of forums even appeal to them. *smirks*

It's gotta be the welcoming, non-confrontational atmosphere, I'm sure.

How'd you lose your faith in God?

It was a long, slow process, involving a lot of broken trust, finally learning to think outside the box, and talking to people outside the entrenched circle I hadn't been allowed venture away from. But mostly, if you want to know, I could no longer believe in God because my foster sister was murdered.

I guess I could point out that it is far greater risk to be wrong, then to be right.

Eternity in hell versus just wasting a "blink of an eye" on earth, sure, I can see why you would say that. But it's my opinion that if I'm wrong and there is a God, He'll understand the pain that led me to where I am, and forgive me. So I really have no fear. I think there is no God, but if I'm wrong, He'll forgive me, and if He doesn't, oh well. I'm not gonna use Him as fire insurance. No matter what else I am, I'm honest.

But in general, look at the vast amount of denominations and variations...that doesn't point to universal truth, it points to millions of people picking and choosing what they think is right and wrong. Exactly the way I pick and choose what is right or wrong. Exactly like the atheists. Exactly like everyone. Because that's what humans do, whether they mean to, realize it, or admit it. It's what we all do.

Exactly. right. It's that way because people are different and they are all on their own individual personal journey. No two alike. And without absolute truth, we all will just pick what we want and go with that.

You agreed with me, then ended with a very different conclusion. YOU ARE WEIRD.

I literally used to lie awake at night and sob because of the vast number of unhappy people who didn't know God, who had no hope, who had no life, who were dying without Him. That feeling really has never left me.

Sounds like a typical Christian kid-issue, brought on by being way too immersed in disturbing doctrine. Your parents should be ashamed of themselves.

I never really considered myself ultra-conservative or "strict" until I was informed of it when I came here.

Again with the brain-washing. People accept the reality with which they are presented. SOMEDAY you'll stop accepting it, and I'll be happy.

What would you say if you knew that you have strengthened my belief in God?

Probably roll my eyes. You're such the persecuted. You fancy that every negative thing makes you stronger.

Ever went ice skating?

I have, twice. It was fun, very much like roller blading. I didn't fall.

Do you like snow?

Nope. I LOVE snow.

Cold or hot?

Cold. I used to sit outside in the snow, without a coat, sipping an iced drink. Yes. I am crazy. Did you really expect otherwise?

What do you hope you are doing at age 40?

I don't intend to be around for that.

Do you consider yourself to be extra beautiful if you don't wear make up?

Of course not. I don't ever consider myself beautiful.

Why am I so tired? *faints into a heap on the floor and cannot be resurrected*

Because living in my presence in any capacity is quite exhausting, due to the constant feelings of inadequacy and awe.

Dom

[Tarol]

*skips another couple pages*

PIANO QUESTIONS!

So, you play piano?

Do you play by ear or by reading?

Did you take lessons? If so, what books did you use, and how long did you take lessons?

How good are you, really?

What's your favorite song to play?

What's your favorite key to pay a song in?

Least favorite key?

How many sharps/flats does there have to be in order for a song to be difficult?

Do you wish you could play by ear/read sheet music? (whichever applies)

You do play piano, right?

What's the last song you played?

What piano do you have?

Have you talked to Bethany Shepard? Because she loves PoTO! (Phantom)