Organized Religion

Living in the Bible Belt South, it's impossible to go very long without being asked, "Where do you go to church." Undoubtedly I'd be asked much more if I had more social contact than I do. And obviously, the biggest gripe I have is that when people find out you do not attend church, it is beyond their comprehension that you may actually be "religious". Instead you are labeled - most often as a non-believer. But don't worry - this post isn't about expounding my beliefs. It's about the dangers, the problems I see with organized religion - the "church" concept in particular.

Short back story: My wife goes to church and has a few friends that she has met as a result. One of these friends is a 28 year old woman who married one of her high school teachers (he is now in his 50's). She is not working, but is going to school to get a degree. They have three children, one of which has a disability and not expected to live many more years; she requires a lot of attention and special care. This woman has been struggling with her marriage for a few years now, but it is quickly coming to a boil. She just recently had a major surgery which has her in a wheel chair and unable to lift more than 7 pounds. Her husband has decided to drive to Atlanta every weekend to act in plays - for free. And he has now left her wheel chair bound to take care of 3 kids on her own.

My wife, and several other friends from church, are helping this young woman out. And she deserves every bit of help she can get. So you might be quick to point out - that without her church friends she would not have this help. You'd be right, and I will come back to that point.

My problem is that this woman actually believes that she is not "allowed" to divorce her husband. Apparently he has not been unfaithful or physically abused her. And some of her church "friends" have gone so far as to tell her, "God never said you were meant to be happy" - implying that she has no grounds for which to divorce this piece of shit husband. It doesn't take a Rocket Surgeon to see the problem here. It is this exact mentality that keeps me from ever going to church. I would never agree with anyone who thinks God expects us to suffer like this - especially for the sake of a 'marriage'. I've got news for you - that marriage is over; the only thing left is a legal document and God didn't write that.

I've said it before - Religion has 2 major purposes: 1) Rationalize our existence and 2) Provide an objective basis for morality. But organized religion seeks to do more. It seeks to dictate morality and beliefs. But to me - Organized Religion has only one value and that is Social. And in that aspect it is no different than Shriner's, or the Moose Club, etc... It provides a way for people of relatively common beliefs to "congregate" and socialize. For those who see value in that and enjoy it - I say more power to you...Church is great for that. But the day you let it interfere with what you know is right - you deserve the pain you cause.

There is only one unpardonable sin - and that ain't divorce.

Then again, I could be completely wrong.