One of the things I love about people is our ability to hold seemingly contradictory thoughts and opinions in their mind simultaneously (like how exactly you spell that word for "at the same time"). I think it's a shame that education, at times, seems aimed at proving one line of inquiry while closing the doors on others. I think our ancestors - mine were Polish peasants - were probably better able to accommodate the presence of different religious practices and rituals in their homes than we have become. If something Great-great-grandma did seemed to help the crops grow they would do it in private even if they knew the priests may consider it the devils work if they knew about it. Of course, what they did in private, and what they allowed other people to do publicly, were two different things.

I whole heartedly agree with our wise Icelandic friend, Skarpi. I hope his leader shares his wisdom. Maybe he can straighten out our own Bubba a little. Peace to you all in this wonderful time of the year.