Friday Five

This was an interesting set of questions.

1. Were you raised in a particular religious faith?

I was raised and confirmed as a Lutheran. Sort of the 2nd cousin twice removed of Catholicism.

2. Do you still practice that faith? Why or why not?

No, I don't. Oh, I suppose I could come of with a bunch of reason for this, and they'd all be somewhat valid, but the plain truth of it is when I was 18 I lost my faith.

3. What do you think happens after death?

I'd like to think that when we die we go into the arms of those who love us, or that through some karmic cycle we're reborn, that somehow we can comprehend the greater purpose behind it all... but in all actuality, I think it's just over and that's that.

4. What is your favorite religious ritual (participating in or just observing)?

Christmas at my old church. They had an 11p.m. service on Christmas Eve... The whole church was lit by candlelight, and it was basically the same every year...same hymns, same sermon. It was comforting. I'm just flat out stupid for Christmas. The way it makes me feel... ~Sighs~ I struggle through the entire year just so I can feel at peace around Christmas.

5. Do you believe people are basically good?

Yes. I'm always stunned at the things human beings do to each other both little and small, because I do believe that the human race as a whole is full of kind, generous, loving people. My husband is the absolute opposite, and he points things out to me to sort of rub it in. I hope I never stop believing in the basic goodness of people.