From what I have read on this thread, you could replace the term 'organized religion' with 'political party' and not have to change much else.

What a coinkydink. I came to post this--

A terribly earnest and thoroughly-scripted [insert product of your stereotype of an enemy] young salesperson just stopped by our front door, to take more of our time than we cared to give, "bearing gifts."

The distinction is, is the person (A) following a script to (B) sell something, or (A) having an honest, interpersonal conversation (B) they and I have agreed to have?

Of course we told her politely that we were not interested, and closed the door. We did not try to convert her away from her program, for the sake of "her potential," because SHE IS AN ADULT doing her own thing.

(Didn't we fight in the 60's for the right to do our own thing???)

I am not looking to reprogram her, and I am not looking to get re-programmed. By her-- or by a well-meaning Mudcatter who cares about my "potential."

Don't we all like to think we have that in common?

Today (I know you're dying to know), it was Kirby vacuum cleaners. Tomorrow it will be Ron Paul campaigners. Next week, Mormons. Alla da samesame. Now, if Mrrzy comes, I would hope it will be for MUSIC.

~Susan