Albert Einstein

Again, I must say I like this writing. I do identify myself as a Christian, but since I was 12 years old, I have had this devout love for science as well. It has made my faith feel stronger at times, whereas it has also made me feel as if God might not be real. Reading Einstein's words kind of make me feel as if it is okay to believe in religion but also have a huge basis of my belief in science. I feel those same emotions toward science that he stated of a scientists religous beliefs: That they are completely intrigued by natural law. I LOVE figuring out the exact chemical response and psychological reasons that make humans the way they are. I guess I am coming to the conclusion that God gave us science and curiousity to explore these mystical beings by which we call 'life.'

franz kafka

When I read this writing, all I could think of is how ironic all of his sayings were true. It's kind of like, we are the hand that holds ourselves down, but without that hand, we would not be free, either. I really like this because in every situation, I think that peace can be found, if you are true to why you are doing things.

Philo

This writing was so cool. I really liked it because there are so many times that I am driving down the street and admiring how beautiful a pink or purple flower is all by its lonesome in the middle of a brown field. I always feel so lucky that God gave us all of these wonderful creations; that God gave us eyesight to take in all of these wonders; the senses just to ignite in us passion for life. To know him, is of the wisest nature. I truly believe that when you let down your guard and let Him in, you are filled with the most abundant happiness and laughter.
I just wish I could get back to that...

The Hermetic Writings

First off, I have to say, "Wow." That writing was extremely emotional for me toward the end, and I am not too sure why. Maybe it is because "God is all around" as the writing reads. Lately I have been questioning my belief in Him, mainly because of the election. And then listening to the audio of Julia Sweeny on Wednesday's meeting. After hearing that, I walked around gloomy for the rest of the day. No joke. Reading this entry in the text though, was sort of a pick me up... something that I needed. "Wanting to know God, is the road that leads to God..." (34) this quote is so true to me, and others might disagree. But I feel that if you want to KNOW Him, then you will walk the path. If you do not want to know God, then ignoring that path will lead you away from Him.

Al-Muhasibi

This selection is almost comparable to the wise Muhammad's words (to me). The opening quote is exactly what I was referring to in my last post. If a man does not love, he does not see. He does not have wisdom because he has not experienced heartache. That brings me to one of my favorite quotes, in the book, Les Miserable. "Those who do not weep, do not see." ONce you have had your heart broken, and your spirit broken, you realize that there is knowledge to be had. I feel that you can not acquire this knowledge, however, without God. God is good. But funny in that he will not just 'show you the way.' Especially if you have pride. Man can not be happy if he walks through life thinking he is the one who is responsible for himself. If man has the love of God, he will let the pride down and accept true beauty of the world and another man's heart into his world.

Muhammad

This is a great entry, I really feel that it defines to a TEE what religion is actually about. Surrendering yourself to your God is what will serve as direct obedience to the Christian God. Everyone has such a problem doing this, but when they do, it is Divine happiness; although I have done this before, my will and pride speak so much louder than this. I think that this is human nature, however. When you surrender to the will of Him, you appreciate life so much more, everything is more colorful and beautiful. When you let your pride get the best of you and it wins you over, it is so easy to become bitter and angry at the world. This is conveyed through critical thinking in Muhammad's words in his scripture.

Tzu-Ssu

I really enjoyed this post; mostly because I am sure to always help anyone out when and where ever possible. I feel that the whole entry can be summed up into one word: Integrity. Integrity is to do the right thing when no one is watching. I honestly believe that if you only do the right thing when people are watching, then you are superficial, and you are doing it for all of the wrong reasons. Who cares what others think of you? I mean, yes, on some grounds I do care, but that spectrum is only present when it comes to me behaving like a lady in public--everyone has boundaries, right? But seriously, I do know people that only do good things (and this is anywhere from placing money in the offering plate at church to not giving someone a dirty look) when other people are around. But if you were to get them alone, or ask them about their personal style, they would tell you that they are very much the opposite of what meets your eye.

I am saddened for these people; for these people are the ones who do not get to experience the greatest gift and feeling of all: The feeling of personal merit. The greatest gifts are giving back, and knowing that you put a smile on some one's face, or encouraged them, ANYTHING... it is just the best feeling EVER. Money could never replace that feeling for me. I love people, and I love helping mankind. However, I honestly believe that compassion and empathy are both learned behaviors. So, if you don't naturally feel the way I do, don't worry, practice makes perfect!