[grandgnu]

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1. Religion has been severely mis-used throughout the ages, especially in producing a crop of close-minded individuals who apply their religious doctrine in a manner that infringes upon the free-will of others who do not share their views.

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This is the realm of the fanatic minority mis-using religion as a rallying cry for their fanatacism and misguided beliefs. Not the realm of mainstream religious followers today.

Additionally, while I wouldn't know from personal experience, I am well acquinted with the fact that 12 step program (like GA and AA) use the concept of a "higher power" to aid in healing people. This technique has proven quite effective.

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My point exactly. These people are weak-willed and unable to control themselves, and thus must turn to made-up fables and myths to better themselves.

I suppose if it works for you, more power to ya. But I still think those who are truly intelligent and strong-willed would not buy into the "written word of god" crap that is spewed forth from the various religions.

I just never got into that whole "god loves and forgives everyone, but if you don't believe in him, you're going to hell" dogma.