Don't Laugh

I take this at face-value.  ;)

"I’m a Scientologist. I’m proud of it. I’ve worked hard to earn the knowledge I have. I use an E-Meter, it’s true. I read books by L. Ron Hubbard. I believe things others might not. It’s okay. That’s what makes me awesome. That someone studies the Torah or the Book of Mormon or the Bible and believes it with conviction is what makes them different and awesome too.

Those differences between us are what give this world her incredible color and variety and texture. It’s what should unite us, not divide us. We should learn from our fellow man’s experience and talk about why we believe what we believe. We should understand at least the basics of other religions. It makes for interesting conversation, intellectual enlightenment, deeper friendships, greater respect.
I have Jewish friends. And Catholic ones. And I know a lot of Mormons, some Muslims, and Buddhists too. I know Agnostics, Atheists, straight-up Christians and a Pentecostal. I have a Greek Orthodox friend—just the one though that I know of. I used to know a Pagan, but we fell out of touch for no other reason than she was far away and I’m not very good with phone calls. I’d like to know some who practice Wicca, Santeria, and Voodoo because why not, right?

I have spent hours upon hours discussing religion with my friends. I find people who have faith to be fascinating. Their conviction in the greater whole gives me hope that humankind can make it. That we will make it.

I only start to worry when some idiot with a microphone takes potshots at religions, crumbling the foundation upon which this culture is built.

I don’t think those comics really understand that when you strike at the heart of someone’s belief—my belief—you strike at the heart of who I am. I am a person. I have feelings. I have a face. A name. I’m that chick at the grocery store that plays peekaboo with your grumpy toddler and makes her laugh. I’m that stranger who stops to make sure you’re okay. I’m that woman who will make sure your kids get home safe if they’re lost. I’m that lady who stops the traffic to rescue the stranded dog in the road. I’m an avid reader and a daydreamer. I still believe in magic, even though I know it’s not real.

I’m a mom.

I’m a friend.

I’m your neighbor.

Your co-worker.

I’m also a Scientologist.

-- Jenny Good"