Rhiannon wrote:Duncan wrote:Rhiannon wrote:Duncan wrote:Very well argued Rhiannon. Yours is the same argument that was put forward by Rev Al Sharpton when he debated with Christopher Hitchens. Would you describe yourself as a Deist or a Christian?
I don't label myself as anything really, I think what I think based on my own experiences and perceptions the same as anyone. Thanks for the compliment.
I don't mean this to come across as an interrogation, but does the God in whom you believe influence human affairs; answer prayers etc? I haven't got any clever retort depending on your answer; just interested in what you have been saying.
I really don't want to get into a public discussion on what I believe, what I think is completely non-conventional to the average person. But I will say that I do believe the spiritual world interacts with the physical world on many levels without going into a long explanation of how and why and what for. I completely believe in free will. And I completely believe that is part of the point on a more philosophical level of why we're here. I think that prayers have a profound effect on things, and to keep any sort of bias out of it, on a basic level the sheer act of prayers focuses our intentions and awareness. Which depending on the person serves to comfort, heal, educate, and make us grow.
Whether that's simply an act of the "self" or an interaction with a higher power/higher realm can't be proven. But again, if it could be, what would be the purpose in faith? But looking at everything from a specific literal stance on either side (science or faith) is one-dimensional. Incorporating all facets of possibility is what helps me believe. I know that sounds ambiguous but maybe it answers your question somewhat.
Thanks