Do people seek out the negative?

2023-05-25T13:19:40-04:00

As I review the posts that come in on a regular basis, it occurs to me that some folks will post articles, jokes, memes, videos that stir the pot, and are intended to start an argument. While other folks initiate posts that focus on the positive, the spiritual, and the uplifting. While even others, post things that are neither positive or negative, but rather informative.

I'm doing a self-evaluation here, and wondering which group I fall into. I'm sure I'm guilty of all three, so I need to reconsider the things I initiate here in RP.

This scripture reference is from the Book of Mormon, I know some of you will stop reading this post right now, but I ask that you read the reference and see what you believe in your "gut".

3 Nephi 11:29-30
29 For verily, verily I say unto you, he that hath the spirit of contention is not of me, but is of the devil, who is the father of contention, and he stirreth up the hearts of men to contend with anger, one with another.
30 Behold, this is not my doctrine, to stir up the hearts of men with anger, one against another; but this is my doctrine, that such things should be done away.

One can search the Bible and know that contention is not of Christ. I believe one of the key words is "anger". There's nothing wrong with questioning and asking for clarification, or simply disagreeing with others because of personal beliefs. But when we introduce "Anger" that's where we distance ourselves from God.

This is taken from Proverbs 13:10 KJV
10 Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom.

I've always been taught the opposite of Pride is Humility. A humble soul is teachable and does not boast in their own strength. A humble person will listen to someone else explain their beliefs. Listening does not mean we have to accept their ideas. It's called Respect.

I know this is a military-based discussion board. We all come from different backgrounds, but the military is the one thing we have in common. It's my personal opinion, and this is just me talking about my own experiences, I would not have been successful in the Navy or in Life, without recognizing God and the blessings He has bestowed up on me, my family, and those that serve others. Every single one of us, have served others, by being members of the Armed Forces.

Anyways, if you've read this far, thank you for your time and allowing me to share some of my thoughts.

Response by CSM William Everroad made May 25 at 2023 2:50 PM

2023-05-25T14:50:56-04:00

CPO David R. D., I applaud and respect those who maintain their devotion to their religion to maintain their spirituality. I have met quite a few over the years and it is always admirable to see someone so dedicated to the core principles and tenets of their faith.

However, this is not representative of the vast majority of military members nor those of practitioners of organized religion. This may be a hot take for some, but there is truth in it.

Without the repeated and habitual exercise of the 7 deadly sins alone, we would lose 75% of the military and 90% of the rest of the world. True devotees would live a simple life and give of themselves to their community, which is not indicative of most Americans.

I may be a cynic, but if you were to profess that you are a follower of an organized religion and use the same hateful stuff that is preached against, it bothers me. Its hypocritical. And that is most of the negative stuff we see, not only on RP, but the rest of SM. Sure we could say "both sides" do it. But only one side is professing the virtues of organized religion when they do it.

Response by SFC Kelly Fuerhoff made May 25 at 2023 3:13 PM

2023-05-25T15:13:57-04:00

What's good for you isn't good for everyone else. If religion helps you and helped you in the military, cool. Have at it. It's not everyone's cup of tea though and there are about 4,000 religions. faith groups and denominations in the world that exist. Not everyone needs antiquated mythologies to dicate their life. So the religious can believe what they want and the non-religious can go about not believing. I have a lot of family who are Christian and as long as they don't push their beliefs on me, we're cool. The minute they or anyone starts using THEIR beliefs to justify intolerance, bigotry, racism, sexism, etc, that's where we aren't cool.

Response by Cpl Benjamin Long made May 27 at 2023 11:39 AM

2023-05-27T11:39:27-04:00

Profit... I write horror novels because conflict sells novels. General audience tend to reject boring media, because it is a snooze fest.... That's why good news doesn't make money.