As an educated person who likes to be seen as open-minded, I'm very uncomfortable with any religion that rejects or denies the findings of science.

But as a religious person, I feel very uncomfortable with those who apply the rules of science to religious thinking. I see religion as based on poetry and myth and imagination - an appreciation of the artistry and beauty of the universe that just isn't possible with the Scientific Method.

Now, I suppose there are those who can say that myth is unnecessary because they have other ways of appreciating the beauty of the universe. Those who don't understand or appreciate poetry or art, can say the same about poetry and art.

Some people practice religion in distorted ways, and come up with results that are harmful, or at least in extremely bad taste - but does that mean that religion is wrong? Some people have distorted views of art, and come up with scantily-clad Indian princess pictures on black velvet - but does that mean that art is wrong?

Religion is but one of many perspectives on the universe that surrounds us. I find it helpful and very valuable to me, but I admit that other people use religion in ways that are repulsive to me.

Some people thrive by living a life with a religious perspective, and some people don't. Why is it necessary to condemn something, simply because it doesn't work constructively for everybody?

As for myself, I prefer tolerance.

-Joe-