Posted by rayww on December 22, 2002, at 10:36:02
In reply to Re: putting down to another's belief, posted by Dr. Bob on December 22, 2002, at 1:10:25
> > There is no possible way to make a statement of one's belief without that statement being an inferred put down to another's belief.
>
> Sure there is. If I say I believe x, that doesn't put down y. Not in general, anyway. Was your point that my believing in x means I don't believe in y?
>
> BobIf I say "I believe in fresh air" it should not put anyone down or make them feel bad. However if I start listing all the reasons why I believe in fresh air it may offend some. If I take it a step farther (US further) and name the health risks associated with breathing "smog", more readers may take offense or feel bad about their place in the universe.
Then, you would have those who accept the trade-off and rationalize how much better it is to live in smog and have access to industry and services than to live in fresh air where there may not be shopping malls, fast food establishments, or industry.
Just because I believe in x doesn't mean I can't accept or believe in y. The problem lies in the perception of the reader.
I have been reading "Sacred Contracts" It explains a lot about how we all tie in with our beliefs, rooting back to the same God; Christian, Islam, Jew.
When I lived in smog I accepted the trade-off, but I also believed in fresh air. Now that I live in fresh air I certainly accept smog and what goes with it. Heck, I love Disney, the beach, and the Southern California attitude. If I was to say, "Now, Easterners, that's another story ;>)" that would probably offend you, because you wouldn't be able to tell if I was joking or serious, as you cannot hear or see my non-verbals.
Oh Bob, have a good day, and a Merry Christmas!
poster:rayww
thread:1433
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/faith/20021001/msgs/1435.html