Good post sqrl.

I first wanted to respond to your statement regarding freeing ourselves from mental slavery. I believe that the manic state is highly condusive to that, at least for me, because I'm functioning on a higher plain as it is. New and unique thoughts come to me like Niagra Falls. I question many things, pere into the abyss and as Myzen so aptly put it, find the abyss staring back at me. Pentetrating my thoughts with wonders of the universe we live in. Feeling so small in the cosmic sense and yet expansive in the manic sense, I feel as though I'm at the center of the abyss.

On the topic of faith, I believe it should be held under the hot lights and spot light of scrutiny. We should never just take something at face value, but allow ourselves to experience it, welcome the thought processes that come naturally and then make a concerted effort to stand it on it's head and see how it holds up. I believe I've done this with many aspects of my faith, but it will take a life time and then some to make this approach with all aspects of my faith. The things that hold up to scrutiny and suspended belief I can integrate into the very fabric of my being and make it one with me, continually challenging it and expanding it. It's a truly awesome experience because it always brings me closer to God as I understand Him. The Universe is a massive place, infinite, endless, beautiful. And yet, what is it that holds it all together. Extensive research has been done on the likelihood of earth forming as it has over the millions of years of existance and many scientists have come to the conclusion that something supernatural must have been and continues to guide it, glue it all together, forming the world as we know it. For those of you who question why would God allow something like 9/11 to take place...all those innocent lives, the suffering and the continued suffering. My belief...God is right where we put him...out of the picture by taking Him out of our schools, pledge of allegiance, our homes and our lives. God is a gentleman, He will not overstep our freewill. This may raise some eyebrows for some. but I ask you to keep in mind, this is MY belief. You don't have to agree with it.

I appreciate the opportunity sqrl to cement these thoughts together. To cause me to dwell on my beliefs, suspend disbelief and see what unfolds. My thoughts above are what has transpired thus far, in a nut shell. If I were to spell it all out, I'm sure I'd crash the sight. If anyone is ever interested in discussing this in further detail, I welcome the opportunity in PM, this affords the opportunity to speak freely and completely openly.

I welcome your thoughts sqrl on what I've had to say here. I welcome a new perspective and added opportunity to suspend disbelief.
TgrsPurr. xo