Fingerprint, the only reason I'm on answerbank late is because before bed I come to my study to switch the computer off - and can't resist having quick look to see what the gang are talking about - and then can't resist adding my two-pennorth! Same in the mornings. I check my messages - and can't resist looking to see what's going on!!
I do understand people having faith in god, but I can't see how any rational person can go along with the trappings of organised religion. I have lost both my parents - and they suffered dreadfully. It broke my heart, and still does - so I know what you're saying. However, whilst my inner spirituality was at that time, and still is, a great comfort to me, I didn't need rosaries, images, biblical tales or priests. Christians seem to have such a limited point of view. They revere their 'teachers', who in reality have no more idea of the truth than anyone else; they set some on thrones to lord it above others, dressing them in elaborate costumes and calling them 'holy'; they invent stories to fit their doctrine, they make saints of, and venerate people who have done some terrible things, their churches are rich whilst people in the world are starving, and they restrict god to a set of man-made rules. And now we have the Born Agains with their speaking in tongues, fear of the devil and threats of eternal damnation - and to my mind, nothing is more evil than their teachings. None of it is necessary. People can believe in a god without all that - they only have to look at nature and the universe - and they'd probably find a far more personal and spiritual relationship with god if they did.
And not to worry, you're not beginning to sound like Theland! Wonder where he is? I do hope he's alright.