'The truth is that most aspects of religion are benign'
I said that in an earlier post and I defend it because in my experience it has proved to be the case. I also pointed out that there are religious extremists, and, by extension, those who seek to use religion for their own obnoxious ends and I abhor that as much as any atheist.
Stringsinger insists that much of religion is toxic. I would argue that it is abuse of religion which is toxic. You have read Joe's posts regarding his faith, no reasonable person could describe his approach to life as toxic. In my experience there are a lot of Joes out there.
A further point is that I cannot rationalise my faith, it just is. Steve might and Stringsinger will argue that that is the result of indoctrination but I would have to counter that in my younger days I rejected my faith for several years and, to all intents and purposes, managed very well. As time went on I found that I was developing a different kind of belief. Not the unquestioning faith of a cradle Catholic but one which has to cope with doubt and uncertainty. One which requires me to engage my intellect and make decisions; one which, I believe, enhances rather than undermines my individuality.
As Steve points out, religion brings other benefits, such as community. As a musician this has been extremely beneficial to me as I play not only in my own local Catholic church but also in local C of E churches where I feel equally part of the community.
(This also gives me the opportunity to slip in the occasional Tex Mex waltz or French mazurka - a different kind of proselytizing!)