I was raised in the Christian church. Not just any Christian church, but a Baptist church. Not just any Baptist church, but a conservative-ass Baptist church in the heart of the deep red Central Valley of California. I know California is generally viewed as some kind of haven for liberal thought, but the valley is decidedly NOT a part of that vision. This is a region that, despite being less than 50% white (or perhaps because of it), believes itself to be made up largely of “cowboys” and other such symbols of white identity. A classmate of mine once rode to the bus stop on a horse – a friggin horse. I don’t remember what happened to the horse after that; I just know she was on the back of a horse when she arrived at the bus stop. That was the end of my involvement in that situation.
I hesitate to sound anti-religious… Just kidding. I have no hesitation in that stance whatsoever. I understand that many people – some of whom I consider my closest friends – genuinely find comfort in religion and use it to become better people. While I am of the opinion that they are good people to begin with and their concept of religion robs them of the credit for their best qualities, I do not have any problem with this kind of religion. As long as they aren’t using antiquated notions of morality to judge people or trying to convert me, we’re cool. Continue reading “Take ‘Em To Church”
