Only when Carol's beliefs impacted actually with my life and functioning, as separate from her life, albeit within our marriage, was there any bad friction between us. It was an immature ego driven thing for me. I was too young to be philosophical and/or thoughtful about matters. Emotion was the top dog governing my reactions. Now, though, after all the years, it simply does not matter. --- I think we all must learn to enjoy the friction---knowing that it will generate some heat---and also a hell of a lot of light. The friction and the heat -- but the enlightenment is the payoff of this, yet another, paradox. -- And how we deal with it when it is backed by caring love is simply the name of the game. For this reason I can marvel at the chaotic times we are in now---even while abhorring the pain and suffering. It makes the old adage, "May you live in interesting times" both a curse and a real blessing.

Art Thieme