I believe religious freedom is not the tolerance of religions, but the separation of yourself from a bureaucratic religious system. I believe all religions have truths and misconceptions.
Catholicism
I'll start here, because I was brought up in the Roman Catholic Church. I believe in a god; a supreme being, the chairman of all things. I believe in the afterlife, but not the Catholic afterlife. I do not believe the pope has a direct line to god; he is not truly enlightened. I do not believe clergy should remain abstinent, unless it is by choice; sexual energies can be and are constructive. I believe in a moral path; Jesus preached love and respect. He is an inspirational historical figure. I believe Jesus was a son of god as we all are.
Judaism
The ten commandments are a good moral guide except for the constraining of worship; we must be free to express our own beliefs in god. I believe Moses had a vision, probably not from god; morals are universal and the burning bush experience was a wrapper to help in the dissemination of the moral code.
Islam
I believe all can be saved; hell is not eternal. It may take nearly an eternity, but you can be saved. Mohammad is not a god and should not be worshiped; he was an extraordinary man.
Buddhism
Karma is real; what goes around comes around. You should not do good out of fear, but for good itself. I believe in the Buddhist afterlife, a part of existence where your karma leads to your salvation or punishment; your bad deeds will be expunged through penance. There is a path to enlightenment; we should seek out the truth, not meditate in exclusion.
Wiccan Faith
The earth (Maya) is alive and we should respect it. Life giving bodies should be the most revered; this includes women. Even barren women should be revered. Women give life and life should be respected. Although sacrifices to Maya probably won't help you win the karma war, it will make you feel better about yourself. Self reverence, not vanity, is acceptable and a good thing.
Satanism
If you have been wronged, you may retaliate. In combination with karma, this will harm you; there is a consequence for your actions. The human experience should be enjoyed, however there should be balance. Self love is a good thing; we should respect and love who we are. The human body is a good creation, but can be modified. Tattoos and piercings are not evil, but should be done for the self, not others.
Other Observations
Anyone can change their situation. With hard work, ambition, and moral success, anyone can become happy. Happiness should be a goal in life. Hard work is rewarded by those who appreciate it; I have done my share of hard work and promoted those who work hard. Laziness is a quick path to failure. I have been lazy at times; I reaped the spoiled fruit of those failed labors.
If you have gotten to this point, good for you! I'm sure most people won't like what I have to say, but feel free to post comments and your versions of the truth; I will take it in and think about it.
~peace~
