Hey GM,

I think I'll avoid the 'pregnancy' metaphor, if that's okay. :)

Notwithstanding all of those atheist books that I've been reading, I don't count myself among the non-believers. Strangely though, I am far more comfortable with the skeptics than with the true-believers. The skeptics are open to revising their beliefs should new evidence arise. I can't say that about the other camp.

As to my own beliefs, well, I won't rehash my lack of faith with the scriptures, but I lead a decent though imperfect life. I am kind, I try to do better (as my prayers will attest), and the truth is all I seek.

The "Lake of fire" thing infuriates me to no end. I mean, isn't it the ultimate "stick" in the "carrot and stick" approach? I think that passage has resulted in more guilt, sleepless nights, and trips to the therapist, than any other one found in the Bible. No god I would worship would lay such a burden on his creation. Calculating, amoral men, on the other hand, would see the wisdom of inserting such a vile threat in order to advance their agenda. I don't put you in that category, GM. I hope we can one day meet up.

Thanks for your query regarding my cousin Anthony. Although he didn't join the Marines, he kind of dropped from sight somewhere in Florida. He'll surface, and I'll tell him that you asked.

Peter T.