What do you think happens when you die?

[coffeebean]

To me “blessed” simply means “lucky” and the person saying it just wishes me well. I’d rather hear that than swearing, any time. It’s a reflection on them, not me.

I'd rather hear, "Have a good day or have a great day". I don't like it when strangers assume I have the same faith they do. I do not. Keep religion out of it, especially with strangers.

[coffeebean]

How about just a simple, "Thank you for stopping in"? Or even "Have a nice day", "Great day", "wonderful day".
What is wrong with a generic pleasantry?
To you blessed = lucky. Not to the person who said it to you. They have invoked their God (most likely, Jesus) to intervene in your life. They are ministering to you in a very small and subtle way. It seems so bland and innocent and harmless. But it can be seen by those of other faiths as an insult and worse.
Keep it business like and generic. "Bye". "Enjoy the rest of your day".

You hit the nail on the head. Keep it business like, especially when dealing with strangers.

[coffeebean]

May Allah be with you!

May Satan lick your soul today.


Would those be kind good greetings of good will to you? They are kind sayings if you are of the same belief. If your beliefs differ they can become offensive. Christians have a knack for thinking theirs is the only religion and their God is the one and only God. I'd love to see the reaction of a Christian being placed in a predominately Muslim environment or a Hindu environment. Would they then enjoy the religious greetings of goodwill they encountered?

That really explains it too. I appreciate your explanation.

[coffeebean]

Going home after finding out I had cancer, stopped to pick up a couple things. At checkout, the bored and tired employee said, "Have a blest day", with the same enthusiasm that you would feel mentioning that you have a flat tire. She didn't mean it. It was what she was told to say. And I sure didn't feel "BLEST" that day. Quite the contrary.

Is it "blest" or is it "blessed"? Just wondering. I've seen it written both ways and assume it means the same thing.

[fdpaq0580]

Is it "blest" or is it "blessed"? Just wondering. I've seen it written both ways and assume it means the same thing.

Blessed is correct, I believe. But, verbally it often comes out as "blest".

[coffeebean]

Blessed is correct, I believe. But, verbally it often comes out as "blest".

Thanks.

[Byte1]

I'd rather hear, "Have a good day or have a great day". I don't like it when strangers assume I have the same faith they do. I do not. Keep religion out of it, especially with strangers.

You know what they say: "There are a Lot of converts in fox holes." Meaning, that when life is threatened folks suddenly start praying for help from some god or the GOD. I suspect that also pertains to many folks getting close to their expiration date, and more so on their hospital bed.
I normally say "have a good day or have a great day" but I have no problem at all when someone says "GOD bless you" or "Have a blessed day." I don't consider it religion, but would not have a problem if it that was the intent. FAITH and religion are not the same. If someone has a problem with good wishes from someone, regardless of belief then that is on them, NOT the persons wishing them well. As far as I am concerned, a "blessed day" is the same as wishing someone a "good day." I doubt very much that someone saying "GOD bless you" is wishing you ill will. That would not make sense, would it?

[fdpaq0580]

You know what they say: "There are a not of converts in fox holes." Meaning, that when life is threatened folks suddenly start praying for help from some god or the GOD. I suspect that also pertains to many folks getting close to their expiration date, and more so on their hospital bed.
I normally say "have a good day or have a great day" but I have no problem at all when someone says "GOD bless you" or "Have a blessed day." I don't consider it religion, but would not have a problem if it that was the intent. FAITH and religion are not the same. If someone has a problem with good wishes from someone, regardless of belief then that is on them, NOT the persons wishing them well. As far as I am concerned, a "blessed day" is the same as wishing someone a "good day." I doubt very much that someone saying "GOD bless you" is wishing you ill will. That would not make sense, would it?

No, it might not make sense, as you put it. I will occasionally use "Bless you" when someone I know sneezes. They understand it as a kindness. I don't use it with strangers.
Also, more often than not, it seems that "have a blest day" is delivered monotone, without sincerity. That is when I find it most irritating. As mentioned earlier, "a good grunt" would be more genuine and even more appropriate.
Most often when someone says "have a nice day" or "have a blessed day", I respond with, "and you, as well", and smile. People don't generally mean to offend, but sometimes they do. That is why generic greetings and well wishes is best, imho.

[Freehiker]

You cease to exist and your body rots until it’s just gone.

[fdpaq0580]

You cease to exist and your body rots until it’s just gone.

Yep!

[Byte1]

No, it might not make sense, as you put it. I will occasionally use "Bless you" when someone I know sneezes. They understand it as a kindness. I don't use it with strangers.
Also, more often than not, it seems that "have a blest day" is delivered monotone, without sincerity. That is when I find it most irritating. As mentioned earlier, "a good grunt" would be more genuine and even more appropriate.
Most often when someone says "have a nice day" or "have a blessed day", I respond with, "and you, as well", and smile. People don't generally mean to offend, but sometimes they do. That is why generic greetings and well wishes is best, imho.

If people are offended when I say "Bless you" then there is something inherently wrong with them. Kind of like using the label "Miss or Mrs" instead of "Ms." If they are offended, then that is their problem, not mine. If they prefer to be called something else, I will accommodate them unless they wish to be called "Mr." when they are definitely a "Mrs or Miss." Out of courtesy and respect, I attempt to greet folks with a reverent greeting according to their beliefs, if possible. I attempt to respect one's culture, but not at the expense of my beliefs. If that bothers other folks, then like I said, that is their problem to deal with. I recently saw a guy with a T shirt that said "You find it offensive? I find it funny. That's why I am happier than you." Perhaps some folks are just too sensitive. Or maybe they are being disingenuous with their attempt to act offended over perceived mistakes in decent folks' civil interactions with them.
Asking the question of what do we think happens to one when they pass is an invitation to discuss religious beliefs. Some of us expressed our beliefs knowing that others would immediately jump in there to disparage. No big deal. I find it interesting that folks get riled up and aggressive at the mention of ANY religious conversation.
Believe me when I say that when someone says "GOD Bless you" or just "Bless you" they have no nefarious intentions. Most likely, it is a greeting from their heart, whether it is said off offhandedly or with warmth. It's not meant to offend.
I sincerely wish you a joyous afterlife.

[Aces4]

You cease to exist and your body rots until it’s just gone.

Yep, as quoted in the Bible, “ashes to ashes, dust to dust”. :thumbup:

[Aces4]

Is it "blest" or is it "blessed"? Just wondering. I've seen it written both ways and assume it means the same thing.

Blest is the archaic form of blessed and either is correct with the exception of when blessed is used as a two syllable adverb and not a verb.

[Byte1]

Yep, as quoted in the Bible, “ashes to ashes, dust to dust”. :thumbup:

Not quite an accurate quote from the Bible, but I believe they got that from Genesis:
"In the sweat of thy face shall thou eat bread, Till though return unto the ground; For out of it wast thou taken: For dust thou art,"

[fdpaq0580]

Not quite an accurate quote from the Bible, but I believe they got that from Genesis:
"In the sweat of thy face shall thou eat bread, Till though return unto the ground; For out of it wast thou taken: For dust thou art,"

We are golems?

[Aces4]

We are golems?


You’re much wiser than that, nice slight.. if that is where you were headed. :angel:

[MorTech]

You know they say the residents of The Heavens move, on average, about 3 times.

...And then they die?

[MorTech]

Why "must" a creator be all knowing, or even conscious? Humans create many things, as do other animals. We are not all knowing. Earth, fire, water, wind, the natural forces create but are neither all knowing or conscious. Why "must" there even be a creator? I have heard many times that the universe works like a fine watch, and that was their proof. Look at the universe. Chaos! Galaxies colliding. Stars exploding. Black holes sucking up everything that comes within their gravitational influence. The universe is more like the swirling chaos of an explosion, rather than a fine, smoothly running watch.

Creator must be pretty smart just to be able to create a hydrogen atom...From nothing. All-knowing and a magician.

Think about that one...You magically appear from nothingness and the first thing you want to do is create a hydrogen atom? I would first create Taco Bell and Supermodels.

[MorTech]

God once made me get a "D" on a Physics exam because He/She/It/Them/They/One/+ thought I was "Playing God" by interfering in God's realm.

[coffeebean]

If people are offended when I say "Bless you" then there is something inherently wrong with them. Kind of like using the label "Miss or Mrs" instead of "Ms." If they are offended, then that is their problem, not mine. If they prefer to be called something else, I will accommodate them unless they wish to be called "Mr." when they are definitely a "Mrs or Miss." Out of courtesy and respect, I attempt to greet folks with a reverent greeting according to their beliefs, if possible. I attempt to respect one's culture, but not at the expense of my beliefs. If that bothers other folks, then like I said, that is their problem to deal with. I recently saw a guy with a T shirt that said "You find it offensive? I find it funny. That's why I am happier than you." Perhaps some folks are just too sensitive. Or maybe they are being disingenuous with their attempt to act offended over perceived mistakes in decent folks' civil interactions with them.
Asking the question of what do we think happens to one when they pass is an invitation to discuss religious beliefs. Some of us expressed our beliefs knowing that others would immediately jump in there to disparage. No big deal. I find it interesting that folks get riled up and aggressive at the mention of ANY religious conversation.
Believe me when I say that when someone says "GOD Bless you" or just "Bless you" they have no nefarious intentions. Most likely, it is a greeting from their heart, whether it is said off offhandedly or with warmth. It's not meant to offend.
I sincerely wish you a joyous afterlife.

How about those 72 virgins?

[coffeebean]

Yep, as quoted in the Bible, “ashes to ashes, dust to dust”. :thumbup:

That is just the physical body. The soul lives on though. Right? That's what I was taught when I was a kid. Oh.....by the way......what does a soul look like? Asking for a friend.

[Aces4]

That is just the physical body. The soul lives on though. Right? That's what I was taught when I was a kid. Oh.....by the way......what does a soul look like? Asking for a friend.

How old is your friend, six, and unable to grasp your explanation of the soul which I’m sure you were provided since you were raised Catholic. I have to ask you, why all the perceived annoyance with the faithful? I accept you and your atheism but does atheism mean intolerant? Asking for a friend.

[fdpaq0580]

You’re much wiser than that, nice slight.. if that is where you were headed. :angel:

My post ended with a question mark. I was asking, not telling. The description given previously pretty well matched that of a golem. Dirt fasioned into a human-like form and animated with an incantation, letters or some other magical means. Sounds like how the bible says God mad us and how golems are made. So, my question is, are we golems?

[fdpaq0580]

I sincerely wish you a joyous afterlife.

Thank you. I wish you the same.

[fdpaq0580]

Creator must be pretty smart just to be able to create a hydrogen atom...From nothing. All-knowing and a magician.

Think about that one...You magically appear from nothingness and the first thing you want to do is create a hydrogen atom? I would first create Taco Bell and Supermodels.

Obviously, He didn't have your vision. 👀🙆🙅👯

[fdpaq0580]

what does a soul look like? Asking for a friend.

Jellyfish.

[fdpaq0580]

How about those 72 virgins?

With 72 headaches.!

[Kenswing]

How old is your friend, six, and unable to grasp your explanation of the soul which I’m sure you were provided since you were raised Catholic. I have to ask you, why all the perceived annoyance with the faithful? I accept you and your atheism but does atheism mean intolerant? Asking for a friend.

Don't feel bad. He doesn't like people from South of 44 either. And I think he was lying about the friend thing. I can't imagine that he actually has any. :1rotfl:

[fdpaq0580]

[QUOTE=Aces4;21 I have to ask you, why all the perceived annoyance with the faithful? I accept you and your atheism but does atheism mean intolerant? [/QUOTE]

Perception is one's interpretation of that was said or seen. It is not always correct. I am agnostic, leaning toward atheism. I can only speak for myself.
What I see is religious folks acting incredulous when they find out I don't believe in God. Specifically, their God. I get lectured and preached to about the evils of not believing. Heaven and Hell! Talked to like a foolish child. Sounds like intolerance and lack of respect, doesn't it?
My response is sometimes questioning things that don't line up or are contradictory. Some see losing belief in God(s) as putting away childish things, like Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny. But, putting away God is not so easy. Most people worldwide cannot do it. Giving up that last gigantic security blanket (my poor choice of words is not meant to be insulting, but will probably be taken that way) is tough to let go of. But many of us no longer need the threats of Daddy to be good citizens. We no longer rely on Daddy to bail us out when we are naughty. We are grown enough to See that getting along and being good, kind and caring to one another is in everyone's best interest. No reward if we are good. No punishment if we are bad.

[coffeebean]

How old is your friend, six, and unable to grasp your explanation of the soul which I’m sure you were provided since you were raised Catholic. I have to ask you, why all the perceived annoyance with the faithful? I accept you and your atheism but does atheism mean intolerant? Asking for a friend.

I do not wear my atheism on my sleeve. I do not, under any circumstances, discuss religion with anyone in person with the exception of my husband and my close family. No one else is privey to my religious beliefs or lack there of. Not so with strangers I deal with in public. Is it so difficult to say to a stranger, "Have a nice day" or something that does not imply a religious salutation?

My perceived annoyance, as you say, is because these people wear their religion on their sleeve. No need for that, especially when dealing with strangers. Yes, I am intolerant. My bad.

[coffeebean]

Perception is one's interpretation of that was said or seen. It is not always correct. I am agnostic, leaning toward atheism. I can only speak for myself.
What I see is religious folks acting incredulous when they find out I don't believe in God. Specifically, their God. I get lectured and preached to about the evils of not believing. Heaven and Hell! Talked to like a foolish child. Sounds like intolerance and lack of respect, doesn't it?
My response is sometimes questioning things that don't line up or are contradictory. Some see losing belief in God(s) as putting away childish things, like Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny. But, putting away God is not so easy. Most people worldwide cannot do it. Giving up that last gigantic security blanket (my poor choice of words is not meant to be insulting, but will probably be taken that way) is tough to let go of. But many of us no longer need the threats of Daddy to be good citizens. We no longer rely on Daddy to bail us out when we are naughty. We are grown enough to See that getting along and being good, kind and caring to one another is in everyone's best interest. No reward if we are good. No punishment if we are bad.

Agree. I was taught right and wrong by my parents who were excellent role models to me. I did not need to be enticed to be good so I wouldn't go to hell and live it up with the devil.

[Aces4]

I do not wear my atheism on my sleeve. I do not, under any circumstances, discuss religion with anyone in person with the exception of my husband and my close family. No one else is privey to my religious beliefs or lack there of. Not so with strangers I deal with in public. Is it so difficult to say to a stranger, "Have a nice day" or something that does not imply a religious salutation?

My perceived annoyance, as you say, is because these people wear their religion on their sleeve. No need for that, especially when dealing with strangers. Yes, I am intolerant. My bad.


Maybe if you could open your heart and realize that is the very best wish a Christian can make for you, you wouldn’t be so insulted. The snide remarks people of faith receive from some atheists are far greater and nastier.

Two of our nicest and best friends are atheists, we all accept each other for our own convictions. Perhaps if one lives in the Bible Belt, people are more apt to be chastised for their atheism but I have never seen a situation like that in Florida, our home state or anywhere we’ve traveled. I must be mixing with the wrong crowd.:icon_wink:

[Aces4]

Agree. I was taught right and wrong by my parents who were excellent role models to me. I did not need to be enticed to be good so I wouldn't go to hell and live it up with the devil.

If you look beyond your own upbringing years ago, your parents had a faith based background which led to their tenents for raising you. There are many who walk a righteous path and are atheist. But this is a new age for atheism and anything goes, you can see it in the streets.

[Aces4]

My post ended with a question mark. I was asking, not telling. The description given previously pretty well matched that of a golem. Dirt fasioned into a human-like form and animated with an incantation, letters or some other magical means. Sounds like how the bible says God mad us and how golems are made. So, my question is, are we golems?

And as I answered, you are wiser than that. :thumbup:

[fdpaq0580]

[QUOTE=Aces4;2158015]And as I answered, you are wiser than that. :thumbup]

Thank you for the complement, but perhaps you overestimate me. The Bible does state that we were made out of dust, animated by His word and we shall return to dust. That describes us, and also describes a golem. So, I ask, from God's perspective, are we his golems? Either way, I will not be offended. I'm just curious.

[Aces4]

[QUOTE=Aces4;2158015]And as I answered, you are wiser than that. :thumbup]

Thank you for the complement, but perhaps you overestimate me. The Bible does state that we were made out of dust, animated by His word and we shall return to dust. That describes us, and also describes a golem. So, I ask, from God's perspective, are we his golems? Either way, I will not be offended. I'm just curious.


So, if I tell you that you are God’s golem you now admit that you believe in God?

[Mortal1]

then you are likely forgetting to live. What happens when you stop living is only a worry to those with no sense of "being" about the life they are living now.

[dewilson58]

Did someone go to a Tony Robbins seminar??

:pepper2::pepper2:

[coralway]

then you are likely forgetting to live. What happens when you stop living is only a worry to those with no sense of "being" about the life they are living now.




huh?

[fdpaq0580]

Pardon me while I go contemplate my navel.

[fdpaq0580]

[QUOTE=fdpaq0580;2158022]


So, if I tell you that you are God’s golem you now admit that you believe in God?

No. Still don't believe. But, when the "dust to dust" part of the conversation came up, it sounded to me that the Bible quote was describing a golem. The answer seems to be "yes", we are dust and will return to dust. Nothing more.

[Aces4]

[QUOTE=Aces4;2158109]

No. Still don't believe. But, when the "dust to dust" part of the conversation came up, it sounded to me that the Bible quote was describing a golem. The answer seems to be "yes", we are dust and will return to dust. Nothing more.

Peace. Have a good evening.:wave:

[PersonOfInterest]

Are there decisions in your life that are made based on the affect that decision may have on your 'afterlife' direction? Something like, The only reason you haven't killed your nasty neighbor is because you don't want to go to hell. Or, half of my lottery winnings are going to the Church to help insure my spot in heaven.

Is the concept of afterlife what drives morality?

[fdpaq0580]

Are there decisions in your life that are made based on the affect that decision may have on your 'afterlife' direction? Something like, The only reason you haven't killed your nasty neighbor is because you don't want to go to hell. Or, half of my lottery winnings are going to the Church to help insure my spot in heaven.

Is the concept of afterlife what drives morality?

For some, perhaps. But, I believe that morals and ethics are taught by our species as a way to get along with one another. The "Golden Rule" works well regardless of whether you are religious or not. It is practical life strategy. As you travel and observe other cultures with different beliefs you will see some moral or ethical differences.

[Byte1]

Interesting how the non-believers claim they are insulted/offended when someone says "GOD bless you, bless you or have blessed day." And yet, they are OK with insulting those of faith with comparisons of our faith with Santa, Easter Bunny or the tooth fairy. They also suggest that GOD created a golem, which is not offensive at all, right? It is ironic that those that are attempting to do good will such as spreading the good word as instructed by the Bible are considered to be insulting. Which would be considered to be a good citizen; a person that attempts to tell you that GOD is a myth and childish if you believe, or a person that feels an obligation to save your eternal soul by passing on information on how to save yourself? Which one has your best interest at heart?
The question of the OP was what do we think happens when we die? There were a lot of different views or opinions. On the other hand, the only ones that were disputed, disparaged or run down were the beliefs of an afterlife based on religious faith. I'm not complaining, only pointing out that a couple folks on here said they were offended by kind wishes based on religious belief. So, I appreciate the kind gesture of wishing one a "good day" or a "blessed day" or wishing GOD to "bless" me. If one says "May Allah's light shine upon you" to me, I will also take that as a kindness and not be offended.
Believing in GOD's grace and salvation to me is like having insurance. Having it and not needing it is a lot better than not having it and needing it.

[Velvet]

Interesting how the non-believers claim they are insulted/offended when someone says "GOD bless you, bless you or have blessed day." And yet, they are OK with insulting those of faith with comparisons of our faith with Santa, Easter Bunny or the tooth fairy. They also suggest that GOD created a golem, which is not offensive at all, right? It is ironic that those that are attempting to do good will such as spreading the good word as instructed by the Bible are considered to be insulting. Which would be considered to be a good citizen; a person that attempts to tell you that GOD is a myth and childish if you believe, or a person that feels an obligation to save your eternal soul by passing on information on how to save yourself? Which one has your best interest at heart?
The question of the OP was what do we think happens when we die? There were a lot of different views or opinions. On the other hand, the only ones that were disputed, disparaged or run down were the beliefs of an afterlife based on religious faith. I'm not complaining, only pointing out that a couple folks on here said they were offended by kind wishes based on religious belief. So, I appreciate the kind gesture of wishing one a "good day" or a "blessed day" or wishing GOD to "bless" me. If one says "May Allah's light shine upon you" to me, I will also take that as a kindness and not be offended.
Believing in GOD's grace and salvation to me is like having insurance. Having it and not needing it is a lot better than not having it and needing it.

LOL, I just love the “insurance” part! Yes, it is wonderful if you can believe, but some people absolutely can’t, they need to know. I am one of them. You know, the doubting Thomas etc. And for some reason I take pleasure in other people’s good will. I’m just working on my own to get better.

[fdpaq0580]

Interesting how the non-believers claim they are insulted/offended when someone says "GOD bless you, bless you or have blessed day." And yet, they are OK with insulting those of faith with comparisons of our faith with Santa, Easter Bunny or the tooth fairy. They also suggest that GOD created a golem, which is not offensive at all, right? It is ironic that those that are attempting to do good will such as spreading the good word as instructed by the Bible are considered to be insulting. Which would be considered to be a good citizen; a person that attempts to tell you that GOD is a myth and childish if you believe, or a person that feels an obligation to save your eternal soul by passing on information on how to save yourself? Which one has your best interest at heart?
The question of the OP was what do we think happens when we die? There were a lot of different views or opinions. On the other hand, the only ones that were disputed, disparaged or run down were the beliefs of an afterlife based on religious faith. I'm not complaining, only pointing out that a couple folks on here said they were offended by kind wishes based on religious belief. So, I appreciate the kind gesture of wishing one a "good day" or a "blessed day" or wishing GOD to "bless" me. If one says "May Allah's light shine upon you" to me, I will also take that as a kindness and not be offended.
Believing in GOD's grace and salvation to me is like having insurance. Having it and not needing it is a lot better than not having it and needing it.

If you feel insulted by anything I said, my sincerest apologies. This is why discussions regarding faith or the lack of it are difficult, at best. Usually both parties can find reason to feel slighted because they are not speaking from the same place. No real common ground.
For example, you resent references to Santa and the Easter Bunny, but both play a big roll in a childs Cristian holiday introduction. The question about whether or not we are golem was actually a serious question based on the description of God creating man and the description of a golem. A creature fashioned from earth/dust, activated by magical means, then returning to earth/dust when it has served its purpose.
You said you are doing what the Bible says you are supposed to do , spread the word. We see your "good work" as meddling in the lives of others, attempting to make converts of those who believe differently than you, and denigrate our beliefs or lack thereof, and try to frighten us into accepting your Jesus as Lord and savior with threats of our souls will burn in He'll
for eternity. Surely you can see how insulting it can be from our side.
So, you can genuinely wish me a Merry Christmas, and I will wish you a genuine Happy Holidays.
But, in business, keep it business like. Have a good night!
🙏Peace!

[Velvet]

If you feel insulted by anything I said, my sincerest apologies. This is why discussions regarding faith or the lack of it are difficult, at best. Usually both parties can find reason to feel slighted because they are not speaking from the same place. No real common ground.
For example, you resent references to Santa and the Easter Bunny, but both play a big roll in a childs Cristian holiday introduction. The question about whether or not we are golem was actually a serious question based on the description of God creating man and the description of a golem. A creature fashioned from earth/dust, activated by magical means, then returning to earth/dust when it has served its purpose.
You said you are doing what the Bible says you are supposed to do , spread the word. We see your "good work" as meddling in the lives of others, attempting to make converts of those who believe differently than you, and denigrate our beliefs or lack thereof, and try to frighten us into accepting your Jesus as Lord and savior with threats of our souls will burn in He'll
for eternity. Surely you can see how insulting it can be from our side.
So, you can genuinely wish me a Merry Christmas, and I will wish you a genuine Happy Holidays.
But, in business, keep it business like. Have a good night!
������Peace!

Yes…but…but…it’s not a personal choice, it is an ORDER

(If you accept the New Testament)

Acts 10:42
“And he commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one appointed by God to be judge of the living and the dead.”

(And if you accept the Old Testament)

Isaiah 43:10
‘“You are my witnesses,’ declares the Lord, ‘and my servant whom I have chosen, that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he. Before me no god was formed, nor shall there be any after me.”’

It isn’t like one of us made up our minds, that by golly, no matter what you think, I will talk you into something else! That’s what politicians do.

[Byte1]

If you feel insulted by anything I said, my sincerest apologies. This is why discussions regarding faith or the lack of it are difficult, at best. Usually both parties can find reason to feel slighted because they are not speaking from the same place. No real common ground.
For example, you resent references to Santa and the Easter Bunny, but both play a big roll in a childs Cristian holiday introduction. The question about whether or not we are golem was actually a serious question based on the description of God creating man and the description of a golem. A creature fashioned from earth/dust, activated by magical means, then returning to earth/dust when it has served its purpose.
You said you are doing what the Bible says you are supposed to do , spread the word. We see your "good work" as meddling in the lives of others, attempting to make converts of those who believe differently than you, and denigrate our beliefs or lack thereof, and try to frighten us into accepting your Jesus as Lord and savior with threats of our souls will burn in He'll
for eternity. Surely you can see how insulting it can be from our side.
So, you can genuinely wish me a Merry Christmas, and I will wish you a genuine Happy Holidays.
But, in business, keep it business like. Have a good night!
🙏Peace!

Naw, not insulted....just making a comparison. To be honest with you, I wish the cashiers at stores a "have a great day" as I leave.
BUT, that has nothing to do with what happens to you when you die. I imagine that some folks may say "Bon Voyage" when someone passes, which probably won't have any meaning to those that do not believe in an afterlife. :icon_wink:

[fdpaq0580]

Naw, not insulted....just making a comparison. To be honest with you, I wish the cashiers at stores a "have a great day" as I leave.
BUT, that has nothing to do with what happens to you when you die. I imagine that some folks may say "Bon Voyage" when someone passes, which probably won't have any meaning to those that do not believe in an afterlife. :icon_wink:

"Bon Voyage". I like that! I don't believe in an aferlife, so "Bon voyage" is, in essence, saying may whatever death brings you, may it be good.

[fdpaq0580]

Yes…but…but…it’s not a personal choice, it is an ORDER!

It isn’t like one of us made up our minds, that by golly, no matter what you think, I will talk you into something else! That’s what politicians do.

"Just following orders". The ultimate excuse. The ultimate absolver of personal responsibility. If you believe, you have no choice.?. If you don't believe (the Bible), then it is insult at the very least. There was a time when people were tortured, burned at the stake and murdered, simply because they had different beliefs. "So sorry. Just following orders. You understand?"
"I will talk you into something else", isn't only politicians. It includes missionaries, prophets, preachers and others.
So, keep it business like at work, please.

[lisaschroder21@gmail.com]

I'm going home to the Lord.

I’m going home to Worship and Praise the Lord! What a day that will be!

[fdpaq0580]

I’m going home to Worship and Praise the Lord! What a day that will be!

I sincerely hope you get your wish.

I, on the other hand, will be only a fleeting memory with my atoms and energy spread across the universe.