[Dark_5.0]

Originally posted by Mr 5 0:


Dark_5.0:

Let me address some of your contentions.

As was stated in earlier posts, the Pledge of Allegiance is not an 'official' document, just a pledge written by a Baptist minister in 1892 and recognized by Congress as a national pledge during WWII when this country was about 100 times more patriotic .
than it is now. Wars have that effect.

The words 'Under God' were added by Congress in 1954. In the 48 years since, no one has objected much. Now, a half centruy later, it's a 'problem? Bull. It's simply some atheist making a (literal) federal case out of nothing. He wants 'God' out of schools. A Federal Appeals court agreed with the absurd contention that if a child simply hears the words 'Under God' she is deprived of her right to be an atheist. That's not a supportable argument and will be overturned by the Supreme Court.

The reason the words 'Under God' are in the Pledge have been articulated more than once in posts on this thread. Re-read them for edification on the subject, if you wish.

As for agreeing to disagree, of course we will. However, debate is healthy. We are required to explain and defend our various positions and others with no opinion can see both sides of the issue. I may not change your mind, but I may change someone else's reading the thread - or vice versa.

That's why name-calling and bumper-sticker slogans are so useless. They do noting but appeal to emotions and no point is made or any rational thought given to the subject.

'We' may not 'solve' anything, but we all get to use our First Amendment right and to debate this volitile issue openly. To simply say, "I have my opinion and you have yours" is true enough but misses the point. Debating the truth of those opinions is what helps us grow intellectually and possibly even learn something in the process. I recommend it.

That's what this forum was established to do. Be a place to discuss non-car issues if we want to and debate everything and anything. Many don't wish to debate but just say 'I'm right' - you're wrong' and name-call. That's juvenile and isn't tolerated for long. Reasonable people can disagree on anything but they can also talk about it and maybe, learn something.

You are without a doubt older and wiser than me. I have a lot of respect for you, your arguements do have merit and I acknowledge that.

I'll admit some of you made some great points that were contrary to my opinion. I do feel somewhat enlightened on this issue because of this debate.

America is by far the best deal out there and I'm happy I live in a place where I can freely express my opinion. I was not aware that it was an atheist that wanted the word 'God' removed. I think that any atheist that got terminaly ill would no longer be an atheist before they died. I pray every day cause I know there is a God.

Atheists are un-American.

Later,