I know how coercive team prayers can be. Supreme Court wrong to side with coach Kennedy.

[Yo_Mama_Been_Loggin]

As a rookie with the Pittsburgh Steelers, I objected to the pre-game prayers. They were the same each week and represented a negotiation with the almighty.

Although the prayers were led by our defensive captain instead of a coach, I felt considerable pressure to attend. I did not want to offend a powerful veteran, and I wanted to be a good teammate.

Some veterans on the team ignored the sessions and went about their pre-game preparations. But I listened, and what I heard was counter to my beliefs. The defensive captain lectured God on how hard we had worked in practice, implying that our efforts warranted divine help as a reward.

That was not my prayer. I’m not saying that my interpretation was more enlightened or orthodox than his. I am saying that if and how I prayed was my decision and mine alone.

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/opinion/i-know-how-coercive-team-prayers-can-be-supreme-court-wrong-to-side-with-coach-kennedy/ar-AAYVAVZ

[piddyprints]

1. Yep.

I find it particular offensive that they think any god of any religion gives a flying fuck who wins a game. You know, that same god who is happy to let babies and children die of starvation, cold, and disease and allow all varieties of suffering, regardless of the frequency of prayers for the innocent.

I’ve always been of the opinion that religion should be a private matter as far as beliefs. As a daughter of a minister and wife of an ex-minister, I have always felt that way. As many have done, I’ve whispered the words in my head to the effect of, “please god, let me pass the test,” all the while knowing that if I’d studied, I’d do well. It was more of a self-soothing thing and not something I’d expect to be a group exercise.

[Dysfunctional]

2. I am serious, I talk to God, and I talk to my dog.

Thankfully neither one answers me.

[piddyprints]

3. Well, for one thing,

Dogs seem to be more forgiving.

I have to say goodbye to mine next week. It’s totally messing me up. I think they understand me more than anyone.

[Dysfunctional]

4. I am so sorry; it has always been the hardest thing for me to do.

[piddyprints]

5. Thanks.

Just trying to make them as happy and comfortable as possible right now. Came across some professional photos from a few years ago and can really see how they've gone down. Still ...

[Evolve Dammit]

6. Bogus case to take up in the first place. Only to establish precedent. Watch out.

[Rebl2]

7. Doesn't it

say somewhere in the Bible to go into your room and pray privately. Don’t stand among a big crowd and pray?