Peeved! What Gets You Going?
Goodness gracious, I guess John Lennon was onto something when he penned: “Life is what happens when we're busy making other plans.” I have been so lost in the day to day monotony of life's trivialities, that I feel as though I have been missing out on enjoying the small things in life – writing being a biggie.Once upon a time, I seriously enjoyed blogging. You would think, being a homemaker without children, that I would take more time to explore and expand upon my writings. Much to my surprise, it has been nearly a year since I posted a blog on Lawrence.com (and even longer since I have posted anything with much heart or substance). Folks, I have had one serious case of the lazies. 2008 was a year of ups and downs, which I will detail another time. At the end of the day, I have much to be grateful for and not a day goes by that I am not thankful. As time and life experience has hardened me over the years, generally I still consider myself a warm and fuzzy optimist. That being said, today I am a bit on the cranky side and am ready for a bitch fest. Now, I could be all passive aggressive and start something up with my dear husband for shits and giggles, but that would be plain rude and I generally prefer to stay on his good side. So, I need your assistance: everyone can relate to pet peeves and I want to hear yours!Marcy's pet peeve list:BAD DRIVERS: Okay, I'll be the first to say that I am not a perfect driver. I am human and I make mistakes. When others make mistakes, I try to keep in mind that it's human to error. I may mumble some profanities to myself as I see others pulling off something blatantly stupid, but I grit my teeth and don't generally take my anger out on them. What really gets my blood boiling is when you can tell that others simply can't drive worth a fuck. You know the type: they weave in and out of lanes trying to pass every car in sight – only to end up at the same stoplight as you. Slow down immature idiots! Do they truly believe they are that badass?A few months ago, I was northbound on Iowa Street headed towards Sixth. I was in the right hand lane intending to go to McDonald Drive when my husband told me to move over and go ahead to Sixth. Grumbling, I checked my rearview mirror, glanced over my shoulder and determined there was enough room to maneuver (and I am a wuss and would not have done so if there were any doubt regarding safety – and yes, I signaled too). Apparently, the chick I merged in front of, took it personally and I began to believe it would take some Preparation H to get her off my ass. Oh yeah, she was THAT close and it was quite uncomfortable – I began to squirm. Who knows? Maybe I did cut her off a bit? I truly don't think so, but she determined that she was wronged and what she did next was uncalled for. I took a right onto Sixth and so did she – only she got in the left lane, drove by me, made all sorts of obscene gestures while she screamed her head off. I remained relatively calm but did make an impulsive decision to flip the bird right back at her. Suddenly, she cut me off and hit her brakes HARD. Fortunately, I was being extra attentive at this point and was able to avoid hitting her. So, she believed I had cut her off and thought it would be oh-so-cool to do the same to me. Now, it was war and I simply lost it when she made the deliberate decision to put others at risk. At this point, I had a case of the road rage and while making sure that I didn't break any laws or put anyone else in any danger, let's just say that I gave the sorostitute a decent scare. Hopefully, I learned her good and she will not be so quick to pull that shit with others. And, yes I do realize I sank to her level which does leave me feeling a bit icky...on the flip side, she was seriously out of control and will probably think twice before letting road rage get the best of her. People are just too impatient! On another occasion, I had someone honking at me at a four way stop while I was waiting for a young kid to cross the street. Come on, people. Get a grip! If you're in that much of a hurry – get an earlier start.PERFUME/COLOGNE: Do not get me wrong, I am all for people smelling purty. I certainly am not a fan of body odor. But, why do some girls think it is uber-cool to bathe in perfume? Besides the fact that some are highly allergic to perfumes, people should instinctively know that less is more. On one occasion, my husband and I were dining at a nice restaurant when a couple was seated across the way. My goodness, you could smell this young lady a mile away. Normally, I go out of my way to be good customer, but I actually had to ask the waiter to be seated elsewhere. It was awkward, but we simply could not tolerate being so close to this gal. On a separate occasion, my husband and I ventured on a rare date to the movie theater. Before the movie began, a couple of girls sat down three rows in front of us. Again, the perfumed stench permeated the air so thickly, that it began to make us physically ill. Men, can be guilty of this too – but, in my experience, it is usually women who like to douse themselves in scents so thick, it makes others sick. Don't do it – trust me, it is not impressive.NEIGHBOR DOGS: If you are going to have pets, be respectful of others and do not raise bad animals – it is reflective of you being a bad owner. We have these neighbors that almost always have their dogs in the backyard. They bark incessantly which certainly gets to me sometimes, but is generally tolerable. Even worse is when these dogs are permitted to roam the street. Recently, I was letting Roxy (my boxer mix) out when two of their dogs confronted us. They came into my yard, snarling, looking ready to attack. Fortunately, without further incident, Roxy and I ran inside. A half an hour later, I was backing my car out and one of these dogs came running back to my driveway. If I hadn't been paying attention, I could easily have hit this animal. But, I backed up slowly, playing a game of chicken with this dog. I finally won. A couple of weeks later, another one of their dogs was literally stalking a pedestrian who was walking and talking on his cell phone across the street. My greatest fear is that one day, someone will be hurt by one of these dogs. When do you confront the neighbors? What is the best way? Now, I have divulged a mere few of my greatest irritants – it's quite therapeutic. What really peeves you?
Why I Won’t Sleep Tonight
Well, I always wondered why I found the popular Elmo dolls so incredibly creepy. I may not be able to sleep tonight seeing how my worst nightmare has been confirmed: they are soulless, murderous monsters.One Florida tot, James Bowman, has presumably been traumatized for life after a routine battery change when, "The Elmo Knows Your Name Doll started saying "Kill James!" in a sing-song voice."[Report: Elmo Doll Threatens to Kill Toddler][1]Now, I don't feel so distraught while watching the following classic YouTube video.For all I care, Mr. Elmo Knows Your Name can burn in Hell with his equally evil clone, Tickle Me Elmo.And, isn't it sweet that Fisher-Price has offered a voucher for a replacement doll? Thanks, but no thanks! If I were the victim of Evil Elmo, I would demand money for psychological damages. Why not? Everyone else does. [1]: http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,331991,00.html
A Distant Early Warning
The next band asked me not to read this, but I'm going to anyway, because God Dammit I wrote it. And it's the truth! I fucking love this band. They are the best band ever. PERIOD!!! Ladies and Gentlemen ---- [North Mississippi Allstars][1]! (okay, so I borrowed some lines from Tenacious D and the Pick of Destiny).NMA. Have you HEARD these guys before? I'm no musical expert, but I know what I like and these three men are southern rock gods! The North Mississippi Allstars are returning to Lawrence for a performance at the Granasty, er, I mean, Granada on February 19. My husband and I stumbled across this band in Kansas City one fateful day. Let's just say that they followed [Split Lip Rayfield][2]. In case you're not hip on the local music scene, let it be noted that SLR doesn't open for other bands!Catch them while you can, because I doubt they'll be around these parts again anytime soon. Luther Dickinson, who co-founded the band along with brother Cody, is double dipping it as the new lead guitarist for the Black Crowes. Luther throws down some of the tastiest guitar licks since Jimi Hendrix - I shit you not.You don't believe me? Check it out here, although this doesn't do the man justice. Trust me, if you see him live, it will rock your socks off.[YouTube link to Luther][3]And if clicking that link didn't convince you, I will continue trying to woo you with words, my friend.Watch out when drummer Cody Dickinson trades his drums for the his other trademark -the washboard. I am serious - watch out for yourself. People will push forward in the crowd to get up close and personal with this phenomenon. Don't believe me? Check it out for yourself! Then, to round out one of the most rockingest bands, ever - "Big Chew." Okay, his name is really Christopher Chew. But, he's up there on stage, doing his thing, just happy as hell to be playing music. He defines "chill." I love this man! He's like a big fucking talented teddy bear!If you appreciate this genre at all, don't disservice yourself by thinking sixteen bucks is too much to shell out. These men have played Madison Square Garden for a reason. If you go, per my recommendation, and it doesn't turn your brain to shit (in a good way) - I'll buy you a drink. Fo' real. They're THAT awesome! [1]: http://www.lawrence.com/events/2008/feb/19/24863/ [2]: http://www.lawrence.com/bands/split_lip_rayfield/ [3]: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ih7eRl...
Tax dollars at Risk - way to go, Lawrence
Well, if you stay up to date on Lawrence happenings, it's no secret the Lawrence City Commission has been under lots of controversy lately. My wonderful big sister has gotten really worked up about TIFs (tax increment financing) -rightfully so. Unfortunately, I don't think the public is truly aware of what it's about.On Tuesday, the Commission will be deciding whether to pony up, up to $11 million of tax revenue to private developers wanting to build the KU hotel on the hill. Hmm, you hear so much about budget crunches and how there isn't enough money to go around. I thought we were a capitalist society. Silly me. Why are they even debating giving "charity" to the big developers? To stimulate development? Something stinks. My sister says it better in a letter to the editor. There will also be a meeting at the Lawrence Public Library this Saturday morning. For more details, check out the following link...without speaking up, we're screwed.[more information][1] [1]: http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2008/feb...
A Little of This and That
I have never claimed to be a worldly person, but with each passing day (even as a housewife who doesn't get out all that much), I acquire new tidbits and life lessons. Many are quite personal and kept to myself, but some things just need to be shared.Here are a few recent things I am excited about (obviously, simple pleasures:) and would like to pass on to others.1. Shop Aldi. Call me a snob go ahead, I really don't care. But, when I met my husband, I refused to step foot into this "cheap" grocery store. Well, he finally coerced me into it and I discovered a world I'd been missing out on. I do not do all my grocery shopping there, but I find it suitable for many needs.For some reason, I was initially freaked out to shop there. I had heard rumors that they didn't have sacks and you had to bring your own. OMG! The HORROR, I tell you. So, I did a little research to properly prepare myself. [Aldi link][1]If you have never been, keep in mind that there are some "rules" to follow at this store.a. Bring your own sacks/bags/boxes. To keep costs cheap, Aldi's will charge for sacks and encourage you to bring your own. Recycle, baby. Don't toss those old bags from other stores. Occasionally, you'll run across some boxes for grabs in the front, but usually other savvy shoppers have snagged 'em.b. Carts are all located outside. Bring a quarter if you plan on using a cart. When you return your cart, the quarter pops back out. This is a brilliant idea. They don't have to hire cart boys and more shoppers are responsible as a result. I've never seen a "parked" cart just waiting to hit a parked car at this store. Once again, eliminate extra staff and eliminate extra costs. c. Brand names are not the norm. If you're a brand name whore, maybe this isn't the place for you. But they always seem to have 89 cent Pringles..mmm.d. It's a small store. Just because you have picked something up from there before, doesn't mean they will have it in stock the next time you venture there. Some items are staples, though.e. Their produce is usually fresh and tasty although the selection is limited.f. When it's time to check out, the cashier grabs an empty cart and throws your items into the cart. When you have paid, take your cart to the wall and there is a shelf for you to bag things up. Remember to bring your own bag!g. Aldi's accepts cash or debit cards only. If you only have a credit card or checkbook to your name FUGGIDABOUTID.Honestly, if you're looking for a tasty, frozen pizza, this is where it's at! For a mere $2.19 you can get a Mama Cozzi's which knocks all competition aside. I prefer this to Jack's, Digiorno, Tombstone, Tony's, etc. I laughed when my hubby told me they make good frozen pizzas. But, damn if I haven't been missing out on this jewel! Don't make the same mistake. Also, they make the best damn frozen mac and cheese I've ever had. Move over "stank" Swanson. This tastes like real mac and cheese!Shop Aldi. Your palate and pocketbook will be pleased:.2. If you happen to find yourself in the market for a new vacuum, buy DYSON. They are pricey as hell, but worth every damn penny. Most of their uprights are also covered by a 5 year warranty free of charge. Obviously, they have confidence in the product they deliver (as well they should). And even if you're the most mechanically inept individual ever, it only takes minutes to assemble. Trust me. I know.a. Apparently, there is a loyal club out there. Talk to another Dyson owner and you will both get giddy discussing a freaking vacuum cleaner. I DESPISE vacuuming, but I adore this contraption more than words can describe.b. There are no bags to buy or change. With a few presses of the button, a quick shake in the trashcan, the canister's emptied. Voila! I have honestly considered making a YouTube video demonstrating the fantabulous features of the mighty Dyson.c. There is no icky vacuum smell.d. They're allergy friendly.e. They pick up animal hairs like a mofo. I didn't even purchase "The Animal" model, but my Dyson takes care of it all. f. They work wonderfully on or off carpet. Only our bedroom and our dog's tiny room are carpeted. I use our Dyson on wood floors and linoleum. Fuck the broom it's a thing of the past!!!Thank you, Mr. Dyson. You are THE MAN. Oh yeah- men. Don't buy your ladies any appliances or cleaning accessories for Christmas UNLESS they specifically ask for one! But, this would make an awesome present for ANYONE regardless of gender.3. Now, a simple life lesson. If you get something pierced, listen to your piercer. Yesterday, I decided I wanted a new nose stud. I was told to wait three months before changing the stud. Also, she informed me that she would be happy to help me with any changings. Well, my nose felt healed and I wanted a purty blue stud. What difference would two weeks make?So, I wiggled that nose screw around. After messing with it for an hour, I should have given up. For the life of me, I couldn't get that thing out. Finally, it happened. Next, I attempted to insert the new screw. I could only get it part way through before hitting a wall on the inside of my nostril. A smart person would have made a trip to the piercing studio. I never claimed to be smart. I spent 5 hours poking and prodding my abused nose. Blood dribbled and my nostril got all swollen before I finally gave in and went back to Skin Illustrations.She re-stretched my hole (ok - go ahead and giggle, that does sound foul) and bent my new nose screw in less than five minutes. It was simple and pain free.Now, I just hope I don't get a frigging infection.Live, learn, and for (to borrow a phrase from Misty) tit's sake, leave some things to professionals!!! [1]: http://aldi.us/index_ENU_HTML.htm
Advice Needed
Okay - for once, I'll give you a short and sweet blog.For the past two months or so, the hubby and I have had a friendly black cat lingering in our yard. She's even tried to sneak in our house a time or two.Now, I may own two cats, (they came with the marriage) but overall I'm not a huge fan of feline friends. Still, "Black Cat" has captured my heart. The husband and I have kept a close eye on our new neighborhood friend to make sure it's not losing any weight. The cat seems like it's well fed. Either someone owns her or someone's putting food out for her. Here's the rub: when we first met black cat, she had some patches of fur missing on her back. Now, those patches have merged into one long, fairly wide patch. She obviously has some sort of skin infection that is not receiving proper veterinary attention.The husband and I have grown increasingly concerned about this cat's condition. We would like to take the little gal for treatment and possibly "adopt" her into the family if she needs multiple treatments...or a course of medicine. At the same time, if she is someone's pet, we don't want to steal the animal.So, what should we do? This cat definitely needs medical attention and we want to help!
Home Sweet Home
Wow. It's been many months since I have exposed you all to my seemingly senseless ramblings. I guess you could say I have taken a hiatus from Lawrence.com. I've checked in every now and then to see what others are up to, but honestly, I have banned myself from getting too involved in the online community.You may ask, "why the long break?" Well, I could claim that I have been too terribly busy to blog. While that would not be a complete falsity, its not the entire truth. The fact of the matter is that I have been way too lazy and self-absorbed for my own good and that's that, my folks.But, I haven't been wasting away completely. Back in May, there were some huge changes along the workfront horizon. I worked my arse off to impress the boss all while quitely clamoring (yeah, I know I'm contradicting myself) for the promotion and raise. It DID happen. Unfortunately, the raise was not quite what I expected. I gained mucho responsibility (which I have thrived on), mucho problems, and not a lot of free time. The scales just did not quite balance in my favor. At the end of the day, with all the overtime I have put in (thank goodness I chose hourly over salary), it just does not pay for me to put up with the headache my job has been causing (or the hit the pocketbook has been taking with us eating out ALL the time). I've never been a quality housekeeper, but I'm so drained when done with work, that nothing gets done on the homefront (and my husband's hours are worse than mine). So, I had to throw all my feminist ideals to the wind and quit my job to take care of the home. It took quite a bit of convincing to get my husband on the same page as me. But, when confronted with the numbers and the promise it would be a trial thing, he quickly jumped on board. He's going to hold me accountable so I do not sit at home watching daytime television all day long. If I fail, fuck - I promised to go get a job at Mickey D's the next day. Yes, my hubby CAN and is ruthless enough, to fire me as the housewife.I wish I was the miracle woman who could work overtime every week, come home, do housework, cook a decent meal, and then start the whole cycle over again. There's millions of men and women who do accomplish such feats! But, I can't seem to pull it off no matter how hard I want to. I'm the type that is always exhausted, no matter how much work I've done and I cannot seem to pull it ALL off. Maybe I'm lacking motivation, maybe I'm just human, or more likely- it's a combination of factors. All I know, is that I am grateful to have the opportunity to try the stay at home thing.Maybe I am naive, but I have been a bit surprised by the mixed reactions I have received from friends, family, and even customers. So many people have jumped to the conclusion that I am knocked up and have decided to take it easy and then be a stay-at-home mom. It's a bit awkward telling people - "no, I'm not pregnant, but I have plenty to do at home!" A few have even chided me by repeatedly informing me I will be bored out of my mind. Little does anyone (other than my closest friends and family members) realize that there is PLENTY to keep me constantly busy the first couple of months. For example, maybe I am a bit of a loser, but I never completely moved out of my mom's house. A few weeks ago, I was told I had to get everything out of my old bedroom because my sister is temporarily moving back in. It took me hour upon hour to throw junk away and pack up the stuff I can't bring myself to part with. Now, I have piles of junk hoarded in my living room. My first project is finding a home for this stuff! Then, it's reducing clutter that my husband and mainly myself have allowed to build up (I have the packrat gene). Finally, our house needs a good old fashioned scrubbing. Once this is all done, it will be a matter of upkeep. Until mid-Summer, we weren't even sure we would be staying at this house, but luck struck and we made a deal with our landlord to purchase this house. Now that I know its ours and I will have all the time on my hand, there is no reason not to take pride in our house and maybe even jazz it up a bit.All I know is that both my husband and I are excited for the clear-cut household responsibilities each of us will have. We have thought out all the whats and ifs, but the current situation just hasn't been working for either of us and we feel this is worth a try. And, if I DO get bored, I would find it quite fulfilling to volunteer for a worthy cause on a regular basis.Who knows, maybe I'll even have enough time and motivation to blog more. Okay - now I dare someone to tell me how archaic it is for a childless spouse to stay home and tend to the house...because, thems would be fightin' words! :)
It’s NOT a Convention
Seeing how it's been awhile since I have put out (get your minds out of the gutter) for Lawrence.com, I feel well overdue to slither back into the groove. While I am unable to internet from work, I might as well take full advantage of this "bug" that has rendered me homebound for the day.In between my frequent trips to the toilet, I should be preparing for my upcoming jaunt to NYC. Alas, I choose to dally and ignore the necessary preparations. As much as I may deny it - I must, on some level, enjoy the hectic last minute laundering/packing madness bound to ensue.In the past, my blog topics have ranged from topics I feel a broad audience can relate to...to stories I enjoy sharing with others (often for the giggle factor). While I frequently share personal anecdotes, some may find it surprising that I DO, in fact, hold back quite a bit. Today, I expect few (if any) to relate to this particular topic that I may have publicly alluded to through past comments.Why am I visiting New York City? I could ramble lists of reasons this city captivates my undying love and devotion. I have made frequent trips to Manhattan since college to catch Broadway shows, attend talk show tapings, shop, and take in the diverse cultural offerings. While I intend to absorb most of these various offerings, there is one motivating drive behind this particular journey: soap operas. I will be attending the As the World Turns fan club luncheon. Before you make any snap judgments, let me be the first to say - this is not a convention! To my horror, my husband told his boss he would be late to work on Friday, because he's taking me to the airport so I can attend a soap opera convention. In conjunction with this luncheon, I will also attend a brunch with actress Ellen Dolan, who canceled a fundraiser I planned on attending, but wanted to make it up to her fans. She called me personally, to let me know of the change in plans. Also, I will have the opportunity to have some martinis with actor Trent Dawson, whose quirky onscreen character is a martini gulping, hot mess. While there will be dozens of fans at this event, I attended the first annual martinis event a few years back in an intimate New York pub where I had to share Trent with only a few other fans. Maybe he has a good memory, or maybe I made enough of an ass out of myself that he can't forget me - but, Trent always has a hug and kiss for me, when I have the opportunity to see him. While you occasionally run across the diva daytime actors, the majority of them are appreciative of their loyal fans and anxious to thank them for all their support. They are REAL people.Photo Caption: Drunk Marcy harasses Trent Dawson ![][1]Honestly, I am anxious to see all of my old favorite actors who I have watched since I was a preschooler (thanks, Mom). I went through a phase when I recorded my shows, but have thankfully grown out of that nasty habit. Though, I do try to sneak in some viewing during lunchtime and stay current on storylines through the internet. Also, I am anxious to catch up with other fans, who I have met through message boards and attending other events. While I always see the reoccuring creepy old men (read- stalkers) at these events, most are just "normal" young to middle aged fans for life. I also always get a kick out of the gay men contingency, who are there to meet their favorite soap hunks. Seriously, who doesn't want to chat it up with these charismatic hotties?<img src="http://inlinethumb36.webshots.com/2595/1199748694050371482S425x425Q85.jpg" align="left"Maybe it's my own snobbery, but I sometimes find myself cringing and unable to fess up to the real motivation behind my upcoming trip. I always relate it to Trekkies who really do attend CONVENTIONS. The stereotypical connotation of Trekkie brings multiple, not too flattering, images to mind. Maybe I am too defensive in arguing the semantics, but I much prefer to say I am attending events, rather than a convention. Whatever the case, I am so thankful my husband did not let this quirky hobby, detract from my better qualities. While he sure as heck does not understand my excitement for the soaps, he knows it makes me happy. While in the past, I argued adamently against the popular assumption that wrestling is like a "soap opera for men," my husband has manipulated me into actually enjoying wrestling entertainment and the connection is now blatantly obvious.Once a soap junkie, always a soap junkie! I guess, while it's difficult to admit to embarassing guilty pleasures, there's nothing wrong with having them. At least, that's what I keep telling myself...Note: In general speak, the author does not pre-judge stalkers. It's only the ones who seem "creepy" that offends the author, who based on a certain Jimmy Fallon incident (or two) may HERSELF, be deemed a celebrity stalker. __________On a sidenote, I'd like to extend a warm, hearty welcome to the much needed new blood on Lawrence.com. Welcome aboard, bloggers! It's refreshing to hear some new voices (not that I don't still love the old). [1]: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v345/beatle919/marcyandtrent.jpg
Cranky
After an extended absence from Lawrence.com, a brief excursion to Florida (to visit the in-laws) rejuvenated me enough to return to blogdom. Frankly, I was so worked up by the fact Floridians are weather weak and was full on prepared to rant. Seriously, a mid-sixties temperature range and the staff at a Mexican restaurant thought us insane because we chose to dine outdoors in the "freezing" temperatures. Fo' seriously:they called us "champs." I called them "pussies," despite my feminist leanings normally discouraging me from using such disparaging terminology. As I began to type up this particular rant, my laptop suddenly went "phoooof" and the power was gone (a sign?). Now, I am without computer. Although the hubby does have a brand new Dell, which has been sitting in a box for over a month now, nothing seems to happen with it. There it sits - a lonely virgin computer - aching for a gentle set of hands to break it in. Meanwhile, Momma pines away for Myspace and Yahoo email, which are so cruelly blocked by workplace web filters. Now, I wait for the Best Buy Geek Squad's tender hands to surgically repair my baby. It's going to be a difficult two to four weeks, as I pray for her safe return and a reasonable repair bill. Do not mourn for her, as I have confidence she will return to her former glory.Addressing other business; apparently, I am a bad ass. Someone's been a bad, bad girl. Mrs. McGuffie has been breaking countless city ordinances.1. I park in my driveway. My driveway is gravel thus an "unimproved" surface. If it ain't concrete or asphalt, the city does not want you parking there. This ordinance provides attractive neighborhood landscaping, and keeps mud off the street.2. Sometimes I leave my trashcan at the curb for a day or two after waste collection. One must remove trash containers from the curb promptly after they've been emptied. And Spring cleaning is a definite no-no as you are not allowed to pile trash at the curb more than 24 hours before collection time.3. I am not allowed to store any loose items on my porch. Oops, so I have one white trash thing on my front porch a partially disassembled desk. It isn't THAT unsightly. Hell you can't even keep a bicycle on your front porch or lawn.Thank you City of Lawrence for some goofy ordinances (information courtesy of "The Flame," Feb. 2007 edition published by the City Manager's office). I've always wanted to be a bad girl. Now, I am.
You? Trying to Save Me?
It's been some time since I have blogged, but that is to be expected from a gal as lazy as myself. I make no excuses. Religion is a topic that has fascinated me for awhile and something I intend to explore more in-depth as time allows. There is so much I do not understand about religion and I do expect to take some heat for my thoughts regarding such a personal and touchy issue. I am far from being an authority figure when it comes to this subject, as it is something I admittedly do not fully comprehend. That's correct. As difficult as it may be for you to wrap your brains around this statement, Marcy does not know it all.As cliche as it sounds, I consider myself a spiritual person, though I do not see religion as playing much of a role in my life. I try to live a good and moral life; I believe in God, and in the end, I figure there is an afterlife I will be welcomed into. Recently, a dear friend sent me a [link to a religion quiz][1] and I received the following results: 1. Unitarian Universalism (100%) 2. Neo-Pagan (99%) 3. Liberal Quakers (96%) 4. Reform Judaism (90%) 5. New Age (90%) 6. Mainline to Liberal Christian Protestants (81%) 7. Mahayana Buddhism (78%) 8. Bahá'Ã- Faith (77%) 9. Theravada Buddhism (69%) 10. Sikhism (69%) 11. Jainism (64%) 12. Orthodox Judaism (64%) 13. Secular Humanism (62%) 14. New Thought (60%) 15. Scientology (60%) 16. Orthodox Quaker (58%) 17. Islam (56%) 18. Hinduism (53%) 19. Taoism (52%) 20. Christian Science (Church of Christ, Scientist) (41%) 21. Nontheist (40%) 22. Mainline to Conservative Christian/Protestant (37%) 23. Seventh Day Adventist (33%) 24. Eastern Orthodox (30%) 25. Roman Catholic (30%) 26. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (Mormons) (27%) 27. Jehovah's Witness (15%) If I felt the need to go to church (and occasionally it DOES cross my mind when I feel like life is spinning out of control), I must admit Unitarian Universalism seems like a perfect fit with various characteristics that mesh well with my own belief system.At the same time, I am somewhat turned off by religion. Trust me-this is an overgeneralization on my part. Religion brings much good to the world. I won't bother to list supporting details because it seems unnecessarily time consuming (and I already mentioned I'm lazy). My problem with organized religion is the conflict and arrogance reflected in so many sectors (again, a purposeful overgeneralization). There are multitudinous variations and interpretations of almost every forethinkable social issue. Among the various religions, lines of thought overlap. Always the fence sitter, I take issue with people who are disturbingly adamant that their way of thinking or believing is the only way. Then again, I respect the fact that everyone is entitled to their personal beliefs. Therefore, I do not look down upon anyone for their religious choices (except, I can be harsh against Scientology come on, you know they make good targets:wink, wink).There are only two things that irritate me regarding religion: using it as an excuse to push hateful ideologies/agendas AND when people get pushy and preachy with others. One is rather self-explanatory. Two, I'd like to elaborate on. If your religion encourages you to spread the word-fine. Try to be subtle about it. I do not like being pushed in a corner. I enjoy the freedom of being in the workplace without religion being forced on me (although I think we get too politically correct when we are offended by "Merry Christmas" or "Happy Hanukkah" in public). When I am told it is against someone's religion to say "Happy Holidays," I briefly ponder that one with a WTF, moment. When a coworker asks me if I've been saved, it makes me extremely uncomfortable. When I overhear that a sin is a sin in God's eyes and that a murderer is just as sinful as a smoker, I seriously wonder WHAT the FUCK! This preaching is unacceptable. Though, everyone is entitled to free speech, I do believe lines can be drawn in private venues if the owner so chooses.Now, while I don't enjoy people knocking on my door to spread the word, I accept it is their right and I respect that they are acting on their church's faith guidelines. But PLEASE, do not grind an issue into the wall. I expect them to respect me when I'm visibly uncomfortable. Granted, I'm too nice when it comes to these unexpected visitors, but my hubby is REALLY too nice. This weekend, we had some Mormons visit our door. My husband, being the sweetie that he is, couldn't be firm enough to get rid of them and he ended up making an appointment for them to come back "when the wife was home." We were naughty and ditched the appointment, though we had an inscribed book waiting at the door. I seriously hope they do not make a follow-up visit. They left their phone number and that should adequately fill their desire to spread the word with us. One visit is acceptable-stalking is not! At least I didn't greet them with an arrangement of some satanic circle like I would have done if I were a cooler, more evil person. Who knows, I may just go to hell for thinking such things! ;)![][2]Anyway, I have many friends and family members whose faith and religion is an integral part of their lives and I wholeheartedly respect their beliefs. But, religion, at this point in my life is not for me and I know I'm not a terrible person for not being religious:so don't try to save me! [1]: http://beliefnet.com/story/76/story_7665_1.html [2]: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v345/beatle919/devilangel.jpg
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