Bernie on Francis and the Almighty $

[Starboard Tack]

28. Completely full of what? Where is the contradiction?

Why do we participate here on DU, if not to exchange ideas and sometimes change minds. A rigid mind is an unhealthy mind. I see no contradiction there at all.
Respecting someone's right to believe in a god and worship as he pleases, has nothing to do with engaging in a mutually desired conversation about belief and religion. If that person's beliefs interfere with the rest of us, then we don't need their permission to speak out.
Where do I say we shouldn't try to change minds?
And there I was, thinking trotsky actually wants a conversation. Silly me!

I don't "smear" people as extremists. I call it as I see it. If you think everything in the bible is about hatred, then I see you as an extremist. If you think every word in the bible is the word of god, then I see you as an extremist.

If you think tolerance of another's right to believe whatever is apologizing for homophobia and pedophilia, then I see you as an extremist.

I don't broadcast hate, my friend, the haters do that very well without any help from me. If I preach anything, it is tolerance, and I strive for humility (not always easy). If you see that as spreading hatred, then that is your problem, not mine.

Believe it or not, a lot of folk take me seriously, and I have wonderful conversations with believers and non-believers. It's all about mutual respect and a healthy sense of humor. Give it a try sometime, it won't kill you. Might even give you some peace of mind.

Anyway, I hope you are well and enjoying life, which is way too short for bickering. It was good to talk to you again.