EASTER VENT (if you're highly sensitive to your beliefs don't bother reading)

Original post by Xelindrya

Apr 09, 2004 05:40 PM

I just HAVE to vent, sorry!

I’m SO glad this Holiday Season is almost over!!
No offense to anyone but this is a very taxing season for me. Being Agnostic means I normally feel I am not qualified to judge others on their beliefs since I feel no one REALLY knows the whole story well enough to make an absolute judgement on faith or religion itself.

That being said, this time is so very heavily religious in nature. MORE so that xmas, I think. Xmas is just a commercialized fanfare. Easter is so ‘deep’ for some folks. Not just one faith but lots of them. So much going on about now. And, unlike xmas, it’s not just a build up for one special day, it’s a seasonal thing. It’s a long and drawn out event.

Keeping my mouth shut is my own form of lent if you will. This is tough!

Even now, there’s so much I want to ask and prod and question about. Still, I know that no matter how I word it or how much I say “I’m just curious” no one will take it that way and I’ll be the one crucified. I hate going out in public (other than the steak house) during this time.

Even at the office all I hear is “Happy Easter” blah blah Any big plans of the holiday weekend? (which we don’t even get a day off for hehe) So, Veronica, are you ‘doing Easter’ at your house or someone elses?

“Do Easter”? As if this is some social event? When I say “uhm, no” and they ask what that means (some do). What am I to say? My line for this year is “I’m sorry but I’m Agnostic and Easter just isn’t a big deal for me” Some still don’t get it. “Oh so you aren’t religious (WRONG) but what about his family aren’t you going to sit and eat with them?” What’s so hard to understand? This holiday just rubs me the wrong way, along with xmas. This one is just worse cause it lasts longer!!!

Only other holiday that’s worse than this one is Thanksgiving, but at least THEN I get a chance to see Football on TV. With Easter all I get is Jesus, Moses and other religious stories on TV. It’s SOOO Annoying! Not even cute Rudolph or something amusing. Can’t we at least have BUNNY stories ore something?? Instead every time I flip the channel I see a person whipped, chained or hung. Oh joyous of seasons!

Sorry.. bah.. I’m being bad.

Just HAD to vent!

whew.. feels good to type that out! I hope I didnt pin point any one religion or faith in my rant. I mean it's just that I feel SO much in the minority. It's frustrating.

PrincessRose Posted: Apr 11, 2004 02:20 PM

Re: EASTER VENT (if you're highly sensitive to your beliefs don't bother reading)

I just find it ironic how Passover is the Jewish celebration of the very freedom you use to express yourself.

The reason someone was getting whipped during the 10 Commandments (movie) is that it's about the period of time when the Jews were slaves in Egypt, which is actually historically evident in sources outside the Torah. Slaves get beaten - sad fact of history. It could've been much more graphic. Thankfully, that movie was made a long time ago when such things were still considered in bad taste, so the beatings aren't so harsh on screen. There were a lot of other things on TV that night though, you didn't HAVE to watch The 10 Commandments.

As for the wishing someone a happy holiday they don't celebrate, that just happens to be one of my pet peeves. When people wish me a Merry Christmas (depending on what kind of mood I'm in), I have been known to reply with 'Happy Chanukah'. Oh, and Passover, for the record, has been going on for a week now. It's almost over.

Man, am I jonesing for some Pasta.

tracyg Posted: Apr 11, 2004 02:22 PM

Re: EASTER VENT (if you're highly sensitive to your beliefs don't bother reading)

my easter dinner is going to be brisket and kugel!
my Jewish FMIL asked me what i wanted for Easter dinner. so i had to tell her i don't really 'do' Easter dinner. So shes making a Passover/Easter dinner.

Boop2704 Posted: Apr 11, 2004 05:32 PM

Re: EASTER VENT (if you're highly sensitive to your beliefs don't bother reading)

I do not get what the big deal is, if someone wishes you a Happy Easter, Passover, Thanksgiving, whatever. You do not have a sign posted on you saying what your religious beliefs are, so people, being nice wish you a happy whatever. They are not doing it to be cruel, to punish you, or to force their beliefs on you. It is a harmless Happy Easter. Move On!!! I am catholic, people wish me happy hanukkah at times,Its not hard to just say thank you and move on. I like how you posted don't read if your highly sensitive-- You know that will make people read it even more.
I think the term- if you have nothing nice to say, don't say anything at all applys here. Seriously, the way you stated things is offensive and a bit harsh.
I don't get why you would hate going out in public at this time....people don't harp on others wishing them happy this and that. They don't force you to sit and pray. As for the TV... I don't know, I have cable, and there are over 200 channels of stuff on that had nothing to do with any holiday, actually I have not seen one religious show, maybe you should stop specifically looking for those shows, then you won't complain about them.

I am sorry if my comments come off as rude, but they are my opinions and I feel you were a bit cruel and rude with what you posted and some things, such as your sarcastic comments and really mean wording of things were not necessary to post at a time when others are celebrating and rejoicing. How do you expect others to respect your beliefs if is is quite obvious from your post you have no respect or regard for theirs.

And what is up with Thanksgiving???? It is not even a religious holiday!!

Happy Spring!!

TrayLu47 Posted: Apr 11, 2004 05:57 PM

Re: EASTER VENT (if you're highly sensitive to your beliefs don't bother reading)

Everyone is entitled to their own opinions and if you're agonistic or whatever - great, good for you and your life! However, out of 365 days and 52 weeks in one year we celebrate ummmmm.....Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas! What's the problem! It's okay if you're annoyed about it, but really and truly it shouldn't be a bother to you! If you are Agnostic then be 100% in your agnositcness (if that's a word) and don't let what other people celebrate bother you!

I LOOOOOOOOOOOOOVE God, I love religion, I LOVE going to church and I'm happy to praise God and partake in religious celebration. There are other things that people celebrate that I don't believe in and when that times comes around, I stand back and let them have their day, I don't complain. In a society where there are many different religions and beliefs we all have to be patient, SELFLESS and considerate. If you don't want to see or hear about other peoples religion and celebrations then hey, move to an island where you can be alone and you never have to be upset or annoyed at dealing with natural life and human beliefs and feelings.

Have a blessed day! and HAPPY EASTER to you all!

Maribelle7777 Posted: Apr 11, 2004 06:19 PM

Re: EASTER VENT (if you're highly sensitive to your beliefs don't bother reading)

Why don't you just tell people 'I don't celebrate Easter'. How hard is that? Telling them Easter isn't a big deal to you is just a leading question. YOu don't want anyone commenting? Don't give them a loaded answer.

If they persist, tell them you are not religious.

But to give them an answer such as “I’m sorry but I’m Agnostic and Easter just isn’t a big deal for me' just sounds rude and of course people are going to wonder why. '

'I don't celebrate Easter'. End of story. It doesn't make anyone wonder what you have against Easter. Your other 'standard' answer practically screams 'I hate Easter with a passion'.

Maybe if you didn't answer in that sort of way people wouldn't question you and maybe you wouldn't get so mad at them for doing that and maybe you wouldn't have to vent.

dm24angel Posted: Apr 11, 2004 07:40 PM

Re: EASTER VENT (if you're highly sensitive to your beliefs don't bother reading)

wooooooaah....
I celebrate Easter, you've seen my comments....but I'm a bit annoyed at the tone this thread has taken on, I liked that it was a group of people going back and forth and explaining and introducing new ideas to each other, she apologized for her tone and explained it was only her feelings...well the last few posts seemed very judgemental to me, so if you are angry at what she had to say, responding in the same negative tone makes your own words less believeable and sincere. I thought we were all having an intelligent conversation, it seems to have turned into why this girl was wrong for explaing how she feels...harsh or not, we are entitled to it. Yet if you feel it is too harsh, then dont respond, you cannot judge someone and say they should do this or do that yet tell them not to say it in the first place...
Saying in your thread Happy Easter is like a slap in the face...there are a ton of Easter threads on here and thats where that belongs...
I'am a Catholic, I celebrated Easter today..but I see your point, I applaud you for starting this interesting thread , I have learned a lot!

One more thing as far as there being 365 days in the year with 3 catholic holidays is not so true...Christmas begins earlier every year, with Easter/Lent lasting 40 days and so it appears to me...a Catholic.... that our holidays take up half a year at this point and I feel bad for those who dont celebrate that they have it truly shoved down their throats, there is in the day and age of commercialism..no where to escape ( except in summer...lol)

OctGroom Posted: Apr 11, 2004 08:01 PM

Re: EASTER VENT (if you're highly sensitive to your beliefs don't bother reading)

Christmas begins earlier every year, with Easter/Lent lasting 40 days and so it appears to me...a Catholic.... that our holidays take up half a year at this point and I feel bad for those who dont celebrate that they have it truly shoved down their throats, there is in the day and age of commercialism..no where to escape ( except in summer...lol)

I'm not sure what you mean by Christmas starts earlier every year.. just clarify that for me.. thanks! Happy Easter!

dm24angel Posted: Apr 11, 2004 08:05 PM

Re: EASTER VENT (if you're highly sensitive to your beliefs don't bother reading)

Posted by OctGroom

I'm not sure what you mean by Christmas starts earlier every year.. just clarify that for me.. thanks! Happy Easter!

The commercialism of it, It used to start with things being shown on TV..in the stores... etc in November, now it's in September...It infuritates me ...as a catholic.... that people allow it to become what it has....I stated it wrong earlier..sorry...I also know many will say they dont contribute to this, but that is in my opinion FEW and FAR between, as infuriated as I get, I sure dont miss up a pre-christmas sale...so I offend myself I guess....I am all for the happy holiday feeling but feel disrespectful of all the others who are not celebrating these holidays to have it shoved in there face....

OctGroom Posted: Apr 11, 2004 08:16 PM

Re: EASTER VENT (if you're highly sensitive to your beliefs don't bother reading)

Posted by dm24angel

Posted by OctGroom

I'm not sure what you mean by Christmas starts earlier every year.. just clarify that for me.. thanks! Happy Easter!

The commercialism of it, It used to start with things being shown on TV..in the stores... etc in November, now it's in September...It infuritates me ...as a catholic.... that people allow it to become what it has....I stated it wrong earlier..sorry...I also know many will say they dont contribute to this, but that is in my opinion FEW and FAR between, as infuriated as I get, I sure dont miss up a pre-christmas sale...so I offend myself I guess....I am all for the happy holiday feeling but feel disrespectful of all the others who are not celebrating these holidays to have it shoved in there face....

OK.. that's what I thought you meant... yes it does freak me out when I see Santa decorations.. and it isn't Halloween yet.

I agree totally.

I have a Jewish sounding last name.. when someone wishes me a Happy Passover.. I smile at them and say.. 'You too!'

I like wishing people of different faiths (eg. Happy Passover' and to enjoy their Holy Days. I think it brings us all together.. since for all those who believe in God... there's only one God of us all. It's not about division.

It's about God's love and spreading that love to conquer the evil and hate that unfotunately permeates the world.

and YES.. it IS possible!

dm24angel Posted: Apr 11, 2004 08:18 PM

Re: EASTER VENT (if you're highly sensitive to your beliefs don't bother reading)

Posted by OctGroom

OK.. that's what I thought you meant... yes it does freak me out when I see Santa decorations.. and it isn't Halloween yet.

I agree totally.

I have a Jewish sounding last name.. when someone wishes me a Happy Passover.. I smile at them and say.. 'You too!'

I like wishing people of different faiths (eg. Happy Passover' and to enjoy their Holy Days. I think it brings us all together.. since for all those who believe in God... there's only one God of us all. It's not about division.

It's about God's love and spreading that love to conquer the evil and hate that unfotunately permeates the world.

and YES.. it IS possible!

I agree with your above post completly...that was said intelligently and I agree about becoming undivided...

OctGroom Posted: Apr 11, 2004 08:21 PM

Re: EASTER VENT (if you're highly sensitive to your beliefs don't bother reading)

Posted by OctGroom

Posted by dm24angel

Posted by OctGroom

I'm not sure what you mean by Christmas starts earlier every year.. just clarify that for me.. thanks! Happy Easter!

The commercialism of it, It used to start with things being shown on TV..in the stores... etc in November, now it's in September...It infuritates me ...as a catholic.... that people allow it to become what it has....I stated it wrong earlier..sorry...I also know many will say they dont contribute to this, but that is in my opinion FEW and FAR between, as infuriated as I get, I sure dont miss up a pre-christmas sale...so I offend myself I guess....I am all for the happy holiday feeling but feel disrespectful of all the others who are not celebrating these holidays to have it shoved in there face....

OK.. that's what I thought you meant... yes it does freak me out when I see Santa decorations.. and it isn't Halloween yet.

I agree totally.

I have a Jewish sounding last name.. when someone wishes me a Happy Passover.. I smile at them and say.. 'You too!'

I like wishing people of different faiths (eg. Happy Passover' and to enjoy their Holy Days. I think it brings us all together.. since for all those who believe in God... for the religious, there's only one God of us all. It's not about division. We must live as one.

It's about God's love and spreading that love to EVERYBODY no matter if they believe or not.. For we who do believe, we must work to conquer the evil and hate that unfortunately permeates the world. There is a great need for love, understanding and compassion in this world. A very great need.

In other words... nobody is excluded.. nobody is ridiculed.. all must by treated with love.

and YES.. it IS possible!

RedHead Posted: Apr 11, 2004 08:24 PM

Re: EASTER VENT (if you're highly sensitive to your beliefs don't bother reading)

IMO you waste tooo much time being annoyed..

Why is your attitude so bad. If someone says happy passover to me (which i get a lot) i am happy that they thought that highly of me to say it in the first place! Easter just like most holiday's is a social event, nothing wrong with that.

And as for all the tv shows....let's face it, it ain't all that much. And if you really can't take it get cable, otherwise deal with it.

OctGroom Posted: Apr 11, 2004 08:34 PM

Re: EASTER VENT (if you're highly sensitive to your beliefs don't bother reading)

Posted by oct.2004bride

IMO you waste tooo much time being annoyed..

I disagree, my fellow LIW poster.. but I can see your point of view.

I have only said my peace.. and I have nothing more to post on this thread.

There'll be some sort of poll by me tomorrow.

OctGroom Posted: Apr 11, 2004 08:36 PM

Re: EASTER VENT (if you're highly sensitive to your beliefs don't bother reading)

Posted by OctGroom

Posted by oct.2004bride

IMO you waste tooo much time being annoyed..

Sorry, Octbride.. had to edit this.. I thought you meant me.

There'll be some sort of poll by me tomorrow.

TogetherForever Posted: Apr 11, 2004 08:50 PM

Re: EASTER VENT (if you're highly sensitive to your beliefs don't bother reading)

Happy Easter

Sunny Posted: Apr 11, 2004 08:59 PM

Re: EASTER VENT (if you're highly sensitive to your beliefs don't bother reading)

I did not read this whole thread, but thought I would add my 2 cents anyway.

I am jewish by birth, was raised celebrating christmas, have had no formal religious training, and married a catholic (whose mother is Jewish).

I have spent my WHOLE life explaining my situation, and getting dirty looks, etc. I understand the 'what are you doing for easter' statement. It is VERY annoying. I have been told 'Oh, so you don't celebrate Christmas, you celebrate Santa Claus' and my response was 'Yes- why do you care?'

I love all holiday seasons, I just think they make people happy no matter what the religion. I do not get offended by religious shows, if I am not interested I don't watch (but sometimes I like to watch!)

I just don't understand why everybody is so concerned with everybody else's religion- I am glad for those who believe and find deep religious meaning in holdiays, and I am glad for myself on holidays because I get to spend time with friends and family.

dm24angel Posted: Apr 11, 2004 09:02 PM

Re: EASTER VENT (if you're highly sensitive to your beliefs don't bother reading)

Posted by TogetherForever

Happy Easter

I find this rude, .....the girl is telling us her opinions and RELGIOUS beliefs and many of you are doing what she says bothers her.....can't you state your opinion with respect? Her opinion was HER opinion, not disrepectful to you personally....saying Happy Easter is disrespecting her beliefs...that is not the Easter spirit to me, if thats what you are trying to show, there are other threads on here to do it at, this is exactly what I find wrong with religion....I didnt see many of you saying Happy Passover last week..so much for being tolerant and open minded, which in my opinion is needed to exist and show love as a relgious person in this day and age.

Boop2704 Posted: Apr 11, 2004 09:08 PM

Re: EASTER VENT (if you're highly sensitive to your beliefs don't bother reading)

IMO- Her posts went a little bit further than just her opinion. Some of the stuff was down right wrong to say and went further than just opinion. She knew people would be offended by stuff that was said, she said it in her post that she hoped no one would be offended, Well, I guess some were and they have the right to voice their own opinion!!!

dm24angel Posted: Apr 11, 2004 09:11 PM

Re: EASTER VENT (if you're highly sensitive to your beliefs don't bother reading)

Posted by Xelindrya

I just HAVE to vent, sorry!

I’m SO glad this Holiday Season is almost over!!
No offense to anyone but this is a very taxing season for me. Being Agnostic means I normally feel I am not qualified to judge others on their beliefs since I feel no one REALLY knows the whole story well enough to make an absolute judgement on faith or religion itself.

That being said, this time is so very heavily religious in nature. MORE so that xmas, I think. Xmas is just a commercialized fanfare. Easter is so ‘deep’ for some folks. Not just one faith but lots of them. So much going on about now. And, unlike xmas, it’s not just a build up for one special day, it’s a seasonal thing. It’s a long and drawn out event.

Keeping my mouth shut is my own form of lent if you will. This is tough!

Even now, there’s so much I want to ask and prod and question about. Still, I know that no matter how I word it or how much I say “I’m just curious” no one will take it that way and I’ll be the one crucified. I hate going out in public (other than the steak house) during this time.

Even at the office all I hear is “Happy Easter” blah blah Any big plans of the holiday weekend? (which we don’t even get a day off for hehe) So, Veronica, are you ‘doing Easter’ at your house or someone elses?

“Do Easter”? As if this is some social event? When I say “uhm, no” and they ask what that means (some do). What am I to say? My line for this year is “I’m sorry but I’m Agnostic and Easter just isn’t a big deal for me” Some still don’t get it. “Oh so you aren’t religious (WRONG) but what about his family aren’t you going to sit and eat with them?” What’s so hard to understand? This holiday just rubs me the wrong way, along with xmas. This one is just worse cause it lasts longer!!!

Only other holiday that’s worse than this one is Thanksgiving, but at least THEN I get a chance to see Football on TV. With Easter all I get is Jesus, Moses and other religious stories on TV. It’s SOOO Annoying! Not even cute Rudolph or something amusing. Can’t we at least have BUNNY stories ore something?? Instead every time I flip the channel I see a person whipped, chained or hung. Oh joyous of seasons!

Sorry.. bah.. I’m being bad.

Just HAD to vent!

whew.. feels good to type that out! I hope I didnt pin point any one religion or faith in my rant. I mean it's just that I feel SO much in the minority. It's frustrating.

I just re-read it...what about this post...PERSONALLY offended you? Did she say what you believed was wrong? Did some of you slap her in the face by saying what she said bothered her?