Posted by chappy [chappy] on March 30, 1999 at 17:54:56 {.Oe37V.qjQFQv.a7yxbEivfhqhL72A}:
In Reply to: ***The King and His Son Parable posted by Seeker on March 30, 1999 at 16:03:36:
Good question Seek. In my experience it took sincerity and determination. Now I'm certainly not doubting that you and Allen are not sincere people seeking truth, far from it. I have a great deal of respect for both you guys. I'm merely expressing parts of my own personal experience.
I remember growing up, (raised a JW) looking up at the sky and SINCERLY asking: "OK God, if you're there show your self. Give me a sign. DO something. It never worked. The preachers ranted and raved. The witnesses said: "study and meditate on the literature." No help, only guilt trips.
It took a long, long heart rending time with as much humility as I could muster before I began to ignore the religious BS and go to the source, (if there was one) before I began to understand.
No, there was no booming voice, no "visions" or miracles. I had to really ask; I mean from the heart. The one thing I asked for was what's really "right" and what's really the
"truth."
Still learning folks.
I claim to be no more "special" than any other person on this earth. I offer no physical proof using the scientific method; of which I approve and respect.
The Creator I know is far from the bloodthirsty egotistical deity depicted by the majority of religious zelots we're all accustomed to.
If you REALLY,SINCERELY want to know, ask with an open mind and a humble heart; be VERY skeptical of people and religions with all the answers and DON'T think you'll become some religious nut.
Spirituality is difficult, if not impossible to explain or convey to others. It is a VERY personal experience with your maker. Fear isn't even a part of it. Peace is the result.
Somtimes when you're alone; I mean really alone with your innermost thoughts and unanswerable questions, listen intently. That may not be you answering yourself.
later,
chappy