I was not sure about this thread or the implications. I am glad I read it because it has made me think a little - always a good thing:-)

Firstly, I think it goes without saying that that my sympathies are with the community concerned.

The bit I thought most about was this thing about having to destroy or rekosherise the utensils. I reaslised after a while it was not realy about the crockery at all. It is about teachings. Whether they are right or wrong is completely irrelevant. The laws of that religion say that this must happen. Whether people do it or not is a test of their religious beliefs. Do you love your religion more or your possesions? How strong are your beliefs?

Whether I agree or not I must say that anyone who has the conviction to destroy lots of goods, maybe costing lots of money, maybe with deep sentimantal value, because of their beliefs shows a great faith in their religion. Some may say this is madness but I say, provided it does not affect me, it shows a strength of character far greater than many have. In fact it saddened me a little when a post above said that some are not destroying the china. Sounds like bending the rules to suit themselves. When I decided that the rules of the Catholic church were not for me I did not ask them to bend the rules, I got out.

On the whole I am happy for people to follow whatever beliefs they want. As long as they don't expect me to follow them. Good luck to those who have put their trust in their god and passed this test.

Cheers

DtG