No, it is not a capital g. I deliberately did not capitalize, because there is no god. Where is your proof? Seeing a shining light as I swim to shore (not drown) is not proof of god, that is a common mis-perception. Our brains, made of chemicals, will create illusions as the tissues are starved for oxygen (or glucose). The brain is also known to create illusions (called auras) when there are chemical or electrical imbalances that lead to seizures. Is everyone who suffers from a seizure seeing god when they sense an aura?
No, I would not be surprised at the faith our founding fathers had. I know that many professed faith in a creator (I have actually read about some of them). That is exactly why they chose to deliberately exclude any mention of a god in oaths of office or as a part of our government: to avoid one belief system governing/persecuting/ignoring other beliefs systems.
Those who profess faith must be defensive about their faith, because to disprove it would mean they must face reality. Reality can be difficult to deal with: it is final.
Those who profess faith must destroy others to keep theirs. Atheism doesn't seek to "destroy" faith, just show that reality is real.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
The Separation of Church and State
There is a reason our founding fathers chose (deliberately chose) to leave god out of the oaths of office, and government: coming from a country where any religion but the officially accepted religion was persecuted, the only way to make sure such an environment did not develop again was to keep “church” and state separate. Unfortunately this has not been maintained: our past few presidents have been quite vocal about their beliefs, and have even used their religion and beliefs of other religions to start or maintain conflicts against other religions and their followers.
Also, “church” meant and means all forms of religion, not just mention of god or myths from “holy” doctrine or the establishment of religion (church).
Finally, no political party is a friend to any atheist, or free-thinking individual, regardless of their belief or philosophy. The parties are after power and have lost all interest in maintaining a democracy that serves the individuals. Partisan politics is on its way to destroy, or already has destroyed what is left of the democratic system. Individuals who attempt to run for office are not taken seriously unless they are affiliated with a party, preferably one of the “Big Two.” Religion has long driven political power, political power has long used religion to gain and maintain power. Until we as a global society can fix this problem, no political system is going to keep church and state separate for long. Our country claims to do so, but that has been a facade for at least the last 8 years, probably much longer.
Also, “church” meant and means all forms of religion, not just mention of god or myths from “holy” doctrine or the establishment of religion (church).
Finally, no political party is a friend to any atheist, or free-thinking individual, regardless of their belief or philosophy. The parties are after power and have lost all interest in maintaining a democracy that serves the individuals. Partisan politics is on its way to destroy, or already has destroyed what is left of the democratic system. Individuals who attempt to run for office are not taken seriously unless they are affiliated with a party, preferably one of the “Big Two.” Religion has long driven political power, political power has long used religion to gain and maintain power. Until we as a global society can fix this problem, no political system is going to keep church and state separate for long. Our country claims to do so, but that has been a facade for at least the last 8 years, probably much longer.
If Only You Could Be More Tolerant
In my experience, atheists tend to be some of the most tolerant people. Even of others’ beliefs. Not all atheists are tolerant, and lately some atheists have been quite vocal about their views. But as I am reading some of the more popular literature from atheists I am seeing more concern about the future and wellbeing of humanity rather than of what beliefs are. There has been some eye-opening facts that make me cringe about some of the practices religions allow, which leads me to be concerned about religion continuing. Concern for humans as individuals, though, has been the most common theme.
The most intolerant people I have ever met have been religious, especially if you are not of their religion, or of their particular sect, but especially if you are agnostic or atheist. I think if theists kept their personal beliefs to themselves, enjoying their own beliefs in their own ways, without trying to convert or destroy anyone who did not believe the same way, atheists wouldn’t have too much of an issue with religion. But religions have to be destructive of other beliefs to survive.
Atheism does not need to destroy religion. Atheists are more likely to try to show a theist what reality is, and to appeal to reason and logic. If a person wishes to continue to believe something in spite of evidence to the contrary, most atheists will walk away with a sense of loss for a life and a mind. On the other hand, a theist will attempt to destroy an atheist if they refuse to believe in something that contradicts reality. Destruction is not the goal, acceptance of reality is.
As an atheist, I am free to study any religion: learning about the nature of humanity, learning about what helps some cope with reality, learning some of the best and worst of humanity’s history. I can do so without a preconceived bias. All religions are equal to me; none are superior to any other. If only those who believe their religion to be the best could be so tolerant, how many wars and atrocities would have been avoided? How many deaths avoided?
The religious leaders teach tolerance, but the doctrines are inconsistent and conflicting making them easy to use to advance the “church’s” agenda (whatever that agenda may be).
Bottom line: if you find out someone is of a different “belief” or philosophy than yourself, take some time to learn about it before making judgments, then attempt to accept the person for who they are, as they are. If this is not possible, then walk away, don’t try to “convert” them or change them, unless they express an interest. Some people are looking for the truth, in their religion, in their philosophy, in their lives. Some people may need religion, let them have it. Others need science, facts, logic, reason and the truth. To some, the truth is their religion. Reality and truth are the only “religion” I need.
The most intolerant people I have ever met have been religious, especially if you are not of their religion, or of their particular sect, but especially if you are agnostic or atheist. I think if theists kept their personal beliefs to themselves, enjoying their own beliefs in their own ways, without trying to convert or destroy anyone who did not believe the same way, atheists wouldn’t have too much of an issue with religion. But religions have to be destructive of other beliefs to survive.
Atheism does not need to destroy religion. Atheists are more likely to try to show a theist what reality is, and to appeal to reason and logic. If a person wishes to continue to believe something in spite of evidence to the contrary, most atheists will walk away with a sense of loss for a life and a mind. On the other hand, a theist will attempt to destroy an atheist if they refuse to believe in something that contradicts reality. Destruction is not the goal, acceptance of reality is.
As an atheist, I am free to study any religion: learning about the nature of humanity, learning about what helps some cope with reality, learning some of the best and worst of humanity’s history. I can do so without a preconceived bias. All religions are equal to me; none are superior to any other. If only those who believe their religion to be the best could be so tolerant, how many wars and atrocities would have been avoided? How many deaths avoided?
The religious leaders teach tolerance, but the doctrines are inconsistent and conflicting making them easy to use to advance the “church’s” agenda (whatever that agenda may be).
Bottom line: if you find out someone is of a different “belief” or philosophy than yourself, take some time to learn about it before making judgments, then attempt to accept the person for who they are, as they are. If this is not possible, then walk away, don’t try to “convert” them or change them, unless they express an interest. Some people are looking for the truth, in their religion, in their philosophy, in their lives. Some people may need religion, let them have it. Others need science, facts, logic, reason and the truth. To some, the truth is their religion. Reality and truth are the only “religion” I need.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Good News!
I have been accepted! I have until the 14th to return my acceptance, and then I can register for the first quarter nursing classes...I am so excited and so happy! Next quarter is going to be a whole new world in academia, so this spot will probably be very quiet except for maybe long weekends or vacations. But I will continuing to post as I can.
Thank you everyone for your support!
Thank you everyone for your support!
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Interpersonal Communications or not?
I'm not thrilled with the text for my interpersonal communications class. Belief and non-belief are not the opposites. Someone who is an atheist does not disbelieve in a god: they know there is no such thing. THEY KNOW!
There is too much evidence that religion is just a viral meme that people who are too scared to die, too unwilling to be responsible for their own actions and thoughts.
There is too much evidence that religion is just a viral meme that people who are too scared to die, too unwilling to be responsible for their own actions and thoughts.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
More religion in a class about communication
She just can't keep her mouth shut about her beliefs! Now I know more than I really wanted to know about why she doesn't eat crab. Who cares?
School is definitely going along. I get to register for next quarter next week! Since I won't know if I have been admitted into the nursing program I am planning on registering for Abnormal psychology, another communication class (small group or public speaking) and research writing. All of these classes will meet pre-requisites for the bachelors degree programs for nursing. Then if I don't get into a nursing program for spring quarter either, I can apply for fall quarter entry at any of the colleges or universities in the area. Just think, maybe I will get into the nursing program at the University of Washington, one of the best nursing universities in the nation!
I have much homework to work on, so I must sign off.
School is definitely going along. I get to register for next quarter next week! Since I won't know if I have been admitted into the nursing program I am planning on registering for Abnormal psychology, another communication class (small group or public speaking) and research writing. All of these classes will meet pre-requisites for the bachelors degree programs for nursing. Then if I don't get into a nursing program for spring quarter either, I can apply for fall quarter entry at any of the colleges or universities in the area. Just think, maybe I will get into the nursing program at the University of Washington, one of the best nursing universities in the nation!
I have much homework to work on, so I must sign off.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Again with the religion in a non-religious class
Why is it OK to share your religion in school, but it's not OK for an atheist to even exist much less try to share their opinion?
Because then the religious types would have to think for themselves in trying to defend their mythology and irrational belief in that which does not and cannot exist.
Interpersonal communications class is about learning to be a better communicator by learning to listen and be "other oriented" without compromising your own self. I actually do enjoy learning about other cultures, especially their history because it really helps me to understand where the person I am trying to communicate is coming from and how I can be sensitive to their mores and ethics. But just about every ethnic group out there seems to center their philosophy and traditions around religion (notable exceptions include: Britain, Australia, some other countries in Europe, some parts of America, Canada).
I try to be sensitive to what I know are rational traditions of religion (are there any?) but I will not allow conversations to turn toward talk about an invisible sky bully. They can talk and I will try to listen to what they are really trying to say, but I will not add my own two cents' about such an evil and malevolent thought disease. I can't say anything nice and won't just to make someone feel better: because it really doesn't help!
I really do think that everyone who is religious is so afraid of dying that they live their whole lives in fear and trying to find something else that scares them even more (the invisible sky bully that will make your life hell if you even think about thinking something naughty). Dying is a natural part of the human life.
Remembering that we have a limited time to do something that will make us feel like we have accomplished something important in improving our lives, the lives of our families and friends is something that would make this whole world a MUCH better place! Instead we have people who "believe" that someone else will take care of them and make it a better place if they just wish it hard enough. This is a failure to take responsibility for one's own life!
I am always greatly saddened to hear that someone has died (if I know them, I will miss them tremendously, especially if they have done anything to improve the human condition on this planet) but that is how life ends, eventually. Medicine is greatly improving life and the longevity of those of us who take care of ourselves, but there is a limit to the construct of the human body. Maybe someday we can enhance our bodies increasing our longevity but I hope that we do not forget our humanity. I hope that we will still eventually die at some time so that we will remember that our time is limited and we should make the most of every moment we have, live life to the fullest with no regrets!
I'm not saying I wouldn't like to live forever, because I would! Life is a wonderful thing! I just wish the religious would let me live my life the way I think is best for me without their b*llsh!t homilies to try to make me "live" better. (I'm not hurting them, OK, maybe I am hurting their feelings or making them doubt their beliefs-oh, I hope so!-but I'm not physically or emotionally hurting them!) Mostly it just makes me feel sad because of the wasted life they are living and how awful it must be to live in constant fear!
As part of the interpersonal communications class, one lady brought in a song for us to listen to that was supposed to represent her values: it was a religious song. I can't even remember anything about it, it is not the kind of music I listen to anyway. I just kept thinking about how limited this lady's life is because she chooses to live in fear and how sad she seemed. She is not from America but speaks very good English. She is taking the class to improve her interpersonal communication skills (of course) but I think she just needs to lose the religion, start thinking for herself and get some confidence. Get happy! So far I thought her skills were quite good. I'm taking the class because it is a requirement for graduation with a nursing degree (and if I had known that I was going to have a public speaking instructor I would have signed up for public speaking or small group communications, I feel like I am taking two classes in one: interpersonal communications and public speaking). I'm not the only person in the class who is a bit upset about having to get up in front of the class. I know my public speaking skills are not top notch, but they are good enough to get me through a day at work, and that's all I really need. I'm not going to try to be a public speaker.
Because then the religious types would have to think for themselves in trying to defend their mythology and irrational belief in that which does not and cannot exist.
Interpersonal communications class is about learning to be a better communicator by learning to listen and be "other oriented" without compromising your own self. I actually do enjoy learning about other cultures, especially their history because it really helps me to understand where the person I am trying to communicate is coming from and how I can be sensitive to their mores and ethics. But just about every ethnic group out there seems to center their philosophy and traditions around religion (notable exceptions include: Britain, Australia, some other countries in Europe, some parts of America, Canada).
I try to be sensitive to what I know are rational traditions of religion (are there any?) but I will not allow conversations to turn toward talk about an invisible sky bully. They can talk and I will try to listen to what they are really trying to say, but I will not add my own two cents' about such an evil and malevolent thought disease. I can't say anything nice and won't just to make someone feel better: because it really doesn't help!
I really do think that everyone who is religious is so afraid of dying that they live their whole lives in fear and trying to find something else that scares them even more (the invisible sky bully that will make your life hell if you even think about thinking something naughty). Dying is a natural part of the human life.
Remembering that we have a limited time to do something that will make us feel like we have accomplished something important in improving our lives, the lives of our families and friends is something that would make this whole world a MUCH better place! Instead we have people who "believe" that someone else will take care of them and make it a better place if they just wish it hard enough. This is a failure to take responsibility for one's own life!
I am always greatly saddened to hear that someone has died (if I know them, I will miss them tremendously, especially if they have done anything to improve the human condition on this planet) but that is how life ends, eventually. Medicine is greatly improving life and the longevity of those of us who take care of ourselves, but there is a limit to the construct of the human body. Maybe someday we can enhance our bodies increasing our longevity but I hope that we do not forget our humanity. I hope that we will still eventually die at some time so that we will remember that our time is limited and we should make the most of every moment we have, live life to the fullest with no regrets!
I'm not saying I wouldn't like to live forever, because I would! Life is a wonderful thing! I just wish the religious would let me live my life the way I think is best for me without their b*llsh!t homilies to try to make me "live" better. (I'm not hurting them, OK, maybe I am hurting their feelings or making them doubt their beliefs-oh, I hope so!-but I'm not physically or emotionally hurting them!) Mostly it just makes me feel sad because of the wasted life they are living and how awful it must be to live in constant fear!
As part of the interpersonal communications class, one lady brought in a song for us to listen to that was supposed to represent her values: it was a religious song. I can't even remember anything about it, it is not the kind of music I listen to anyway. I just kept thinking about how limited this lady's life is because she chooses to live in fear and how sad she seemed. She is not from America but speaks very good English. She is taking the class to improve her interpersonal communication skills (of course) but I think she just needs to lose the religion, start thinking for herself and get some confidence. Get happy! So far I thought her skills were quite good. I'm taking the class because it is a requirement for graduation with a nursing degree (and if I had known that I was going to have a public speaking instructor I would have signed up for public speaking or small group communications, I feel like I am taking two classes in one: interpersonal communications and public speaking). I'm not the only person in the class who is a bit upset about having to get up in front of the class. I know my public speaking skills are not top notch, but they are good enough to get me through a day at work, and that's all I really need. I'm not going to try to be a public speaker.
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Nursing school application and a GREAT concert
 | Gaelic Storm Went to their show last night in Edmonds and LOVED it! Wish I had the cash to see them tonight in Kent also. They are such a fun group of guys and a gal! Great show, though Patrick's mic kept cutting out at the beginning of the second half. I was disappointed that ECA wouldn't let them have their Guinness on stage. Drinking a beer, a single beer, during a 2 hour set doesn't seem like a lot to me, besides they are working hard under those hot lights, dancing around all over the stage.
|
pleased 
| The application is in So I dropped of my application for nursing school yesterday. |
anxious Sunday, October 5, 2008
I am now an officially registered certified nursing assistant!
Bureaucracy
Current mood: 
Category: Life
I am now an official, registered, certified nursing assistant!
The story goes like this: my assigned partner and I are called (after waiting for nearly 4 hours). She had to pee and took a run to the powder room. The evaluator called her name and I told her that she had just ran to the refresher. The evaluator said, that's OK because you are going first. I thought this was odd since in all the previous groups the person listed first went first, meaning I should have been the "resident" that the candidate being tested would be caring for.
I fly through my 5 skills, finished within the 25 minute time limit. The evaluator then starts telling me to put my shoes on the floor at the head of the bed, and calls me by my partner's name. I tell her that my name is Lisa and she gets this horrified look on her face. She calls to the other evaluator who is just about to fax the score sheet in for evaluation in Texas. She erases all of the marks and I have to start over, with her marking the form that is for me. I ended up being evaluated on 9 skills instead of 5 (she did not make me demonstrate that I knew how to wash my hands a second time).
The evaluator admitted it was her mistake, but she was so distracted by other things, she didn't notice or hear me when I introduced myself to the patient for the first time after walking into the "room."
I was so relieved to be done with the first five, the second set was even more nerve-wracking. My partner had it easy since I had just performed all of the skills she then had to perform on me (the first 5 skills I did). I think the evaluator went easy on us after that.
Gotta go take another test!
Sunday, September 28, 2008
The Schedule
School: Microbiology, Nutrition for Healthcare Professionals and Interpersonal Communications...scared yet?
Tuesdays and Thursdays:
I get up early, usually no later than 5 am. I study, visit DA and other websites for my daily fix of internet, eat, shower, dress (not necessarily in that order). Leave for class by 7:30 am. Sit in class listening to lectures on microorganisms, watching power-point slide shows, taking notes. We get a short break, maybe two. Spend the last 45 minutes frantically trying to do the lab and clean up quickly before class ends.
Walk out of the classroom at 10:50 am and return home to drop off the books and laptop (I take notes during lecture, no access to internet in the class/lab room). Grab a quick lunch, pack dinner, grab my communication text. Ride my scoot through downtown Redmond (one of the many one-way street, traffic lights every 50 feet cities in this area).
Class starts at 1:10 pm. Listen and participate in class until she lets us leave (no break, but we usually get to leave early). Get to work sometime after 4 pm and start no later than 4:30 pm. Work until 9:30 pm and scoot home as quickly as possible without freezing in the dipping temperatures.
Spend a little time "cooling down" so I can get to sleep. Hopefully I get to sleep by 10:30 pm.
Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays:
I get up early, usually no later than 5 am. I study, visit DA and other websites for my daily fix of internet, eat, shower, dress (not necessarily in that order). Pack my lunch and dinner. Study some more until 10:15 am, then leave for work. Work until 9:30 pm and scoot home as quickly as possible without freezing in the dipping temperatures.
Spend a little time "cooling down" so I can get to sleep. Hopefully I get to sleep by 10:30 pm.
Saturday I have to get up no later than 7:30 am to do all my morning things including packing a lunch. I leave for class by 8:30 am. I sit in class from 9 am to 1:50 pm learning about nutrition. She gives us short breaks, nothing longer than 15 minutes.
I think I am averaging about 6 hours of sleep per night. Sometimes I skip the studying and take a morning nap before going to work.
Good thing there are only 11 weeks left in the quarter!
Someday I'm going to be a nurse...
Tuesdays and Thursdays:
I get up early, usually no later than 5 am. I study, visit DA and other websites for my daily fix of internet, eat, shower, dress (not necessarily in that order). Leave for class by 7:30 am. Sit in class listening to lectures on microorganisms, watching power-point slide shows, taking notes. We get a short break, maybe two. Spend the last 45 minutes frantically trying to do the lab and clean up quickly before class ends.
Walk out of the classroom at 10:50 am and return home to drop off the books and laptop (I take notes during lecture, no access to internet in the class/lab room). Grab a quick lunch, pack dinner, grab my communication text. Ride my scoot through downtown Redmond (one of the many one-way street, traffic lights every 50 feet cities in this area).
Class starts at 1:10 pm. Listen and participate in class until she lets us leave (no break, but we usually get to leave early). Get to work sometime after 4 pm and start no later than 4:30 pm. Work until 9:30 pm and scoot home as quickly as possible without freezing in the dipping temperatures.
Spend a little time "cooling down" so I can get to sleep. Hopefully I get to sleep by 10:30 pm.
Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays:
I get up early, usually no later than 5 am. I study, visit DA and other websites for my daily fix of internet, eat, shower, dress (not necessarily in that order). Pack my lunch and dinner. Study some more until 10:15 am, then leave for work. Work until 9:30 pm and scoot home as quickly as possible without freezing in the dipping temperatures.
Spend a little time "cooling down" so I can get to sleep. Hopefully I get to sleep by 10:30 pm.
Saturday I have to get up no later than 7:30 am to do all my morning things including packing a lunch. I leave for class by 8:30 am. I sit in class from 9 am to 1:50 pm learning about nutrition. She gives us short breaks, nothing longer than 15 minutes.
I think I am averaging about 6 hours of sleep per night. Sometimes I skip the studying and take a morning nap before going to work.
Good thing there are only 11 weeks left in the quarter!
Someday I'm going to be a nurse...
Sunday, September 7, 2008
To Lily
Lily, I don't know of any other way to contact you, so I will post a blog.
Thank you for the comment and sorry it has taken me so long to reply. Been very busy and somewhat frustrated with school.
So, why are you choosing the nursing profession? I have been in healthcare for more than 18 years. I actually tried getting into nursing school 15 years ago, but I suddenly found myself a single parent of a 5 year old and a 3 year old. I was ready to apply, but I just could not figure out how I was going to pay for school without working so I could actually see my children. So, I set that path aside for a while.
Why nursing for me? I actually greatly enjoy helping people. Sometimes it is hard, because the patients aren't appreciative, but most of the time, they are, even when they aren't even aware of where they are. Sometimes it just takes a smile from me, and a few kind words to make a grumpy patient change their whole personality.
It is a difficult subject, talking about death, even with those who have disillusioned themselves into believing there is another life after they die. It's even more difficult for those of us who refuse to kid ourselves. I try to see what the person has accomplished and appreciate what they have contributed to the world, even if it has only affected them or those very close to them.
I created this blog for the very same reason you feel you have nobody to talk to about these issues. It helps me get things out and when I get the positive comment, it really helps!
I am very lucky (I don't believe in luck, but I don't want to say blessed, either) to have a boyfriend who I can talk to about these issues in a rational manner at any time. I come home, rant and rave about the spirituality being crammed down the patient's throats and mine, and find a little peace from his logical approach. The whole human race is not doomed!
I don't know why you have chosen nursing, but I am hoping that it because you have a passion for the profession of nursing. Death and dying is something you will have to deal with, but hopefully not on a daily basis. Pain and the treatment of pain is a very large part of nursing (all of the places I have worked at want to treat pain pro actively). Stay away from hospice and hospice care, unless you get a handle on dealing with death.
I will have the most difficulty staying with the patient who wants me to stay while they pray. I don't want to be part of the delusion, I don't want to encourage it at all. But, most people would not be ready to speak rationally about the whole subject either, so I don't want to discourage the practice, especially while their health is an issue.
I want to be true to my values, I would love to share my values with others, but they have to be ready to evaluate, rationally, what I am saying. They have to be ready to evaluate what they have been doing to themselves their entire lives. This will be most difficult, especially if they are frightened due to health, in pain or have any other major stress.
I encourage you to stick with it, especially if you really have a passion for nursing. We really need more nurses who can help the atheist patient who needs comfort! I am always available to talk to and encourage you to visit my myspace site where you can leave me a message any time.
http://www.myspace.com/xaoslimbo
Thank you for the comment and sorry it has taken me so long to reply. Been very busy and somewhat frustrated with school.
So, why are you choosing the nursing profession? I have been in healthcare for more than 18 years. I actually tried getting into nursing school 15 years ago, but I suddenly found myself a single parent of a 5 year old and a 3 year old. I was ready to apply, but I just could not figure out how I was going to pay for school without working so I could actually see my children. So, I set that path aside for a while.
Why nursing for me? I actually greatly enjoy helping people. Sometimes it is hard, because the patients aren't appreciative, but most of the time, they are, even when they aren't even aware of where they are. Sometimes it just takes a smile from me, and a few kind words to make a grumpy patient change their whole personality.
It is a difficult subject, talking about death, even with those who have disillusioned themselves into believing there is another life after they die. It's even more difficult for those of us who refuse to kid ourselves. I try to see what the person has accomplished and appreciate what they have contributed to the world, even if it has only affected them or those very close to them.
I created this blog for the very same reason you feel you have nobody to talk to about these issues. It helps me get things out and when I get the positive comment, it really helps!
I am very lucky (I don't believe in luck, but I don't want to say blessed, either) to have a boyfriend who I can talk to about these issues in a rational manner at any time. I come home, rant and rave about the spirituality being crammed down the patient's throats and mine, and find a little peace from his logical approach. The whole human race is not doomed!
I don't know why you have chosen nursing, but I am hoping that it because you have a passion for the profession of nursing. Death and dying is something you will have to deal with, but hopefully not on a daily basis. Pain and the treatment of pain is a very large part of nursing (all of the places I have worked at want to treat pain pro actively). Stay away from hospice and hospice care, unless you get a handle on dealing with death.
I will have the most difficulty staying with the patient who wants me to stay while they pray. I don't want to be part of the delusion, I don't want to encourage it at all. But, most people would not be ready to speak rationally about the whole subject either, so I don't want to discourage the practice, especially while their health is an issue.
I want to be true to my values, I would love to share my values with others, but they have to be ready to evaluate, rationally, what I am saying. They have to be ready to evaluate what they have been doing to themselves their entire lives. This will be most difficult, especially if they are frightened due to health, in pain or have any other major stress.
I encourage you to stick with it, especially if you really have a passion for nursing. We really need more nurses who can help the atheist patient who needs comfort! I am always available to talk to and encourage you to visit my myspace site where you can leave me a message any time.
http://www.myspace.com/xaoslimbo
Monday, April 21, 2008
So, what is it?
What is it that makes the religious types want to force their beliefs on others? I just don't get it! Are they so insecure in their beliefs that they need others to believe also so they can feel better about their own fantasy? Is it the flocking thing-safety in numbers? Or is it that the belief in reality, logic, reason, freedom of choice, being responsible for ones' own actions, thoughts and living with the consequences is just too f-ing scary?
Just had a pair of JW's visit my door. I noted the "Watchtower" in their hands and said "No, thank you," as soon as the door was open. They politely said "Have a nice day," and left but it still bugged me that strangers feel they need to "save" me, especially when I don't want to be "saved." The sign on the door that says "No soliciting" is always ignored by the religious ones...they are soliciting!
And then there are the ones at work (coworkers) who insist on discussing their "holy" book and what "he" says about this that or the other thing.
Oh, and then there is the whole "spiritual" needs thing that I have to respect in patients that I care for. I can respect other people, no problem. Respecting their self-delusion is another thing. I guess I can treat it the same way I would treat the patient with mental deficiencies and believes that they just bought a house and will be leaving the skilled care facility any day, even though they are unable to take care of their daily needs without assistance. "OK miss patient, I'll sit and listen while you pray" (inside my head I will be adding that I will not say "amen", because I cannot agree with their delusion that some invisible sky bully is going to deliver them safely from surgery, it's in the skill of the medical team that will be taking care of the patient and the health of the patient).
So, be warned: If you religious types want to sit and listen to logical reasons for the argument that there is no god, and really listen and think about what is being discussed, I'll try to listen to your stories about how you found god. You don't have to give up your faith (though if you truly do listen and think about what is said you will have doubts), and I will not give up my certainty that there is no invisible sky bully that will strike me down for not having faith in it.
I really wish the religious would keep their beliefs to themselves and stop bothering me while I am trying to study for a test!
Check out my photo site on deviantart: http://saoirse-meansfreedom.deviantart.com/
Just had a pair of JW's visit my door. I noted the "Watchtower" in their hands and said "No, thank you," as soon as the door was open. They politely said "Have a nice day," and left but it still bugged me that strangers feel they need to "save" me, especially when I don't want to be "saved." The sign on the door that says "No soliciting" is always ignored by the religious ones...they are soliciting!
And then there are the ones at work (coworkers) who insist on discussing their "holy" book and what "he" says about this that or the other thing.
Oh, and then there is the whole "spiritual" needs thing that I have to respect in patients that I care for. I can respect other people, no problem. Respecting their self-delusion is another thing. I guess I can treat it the same way I would treat the patient with mental deficiencies and believes that they just bought a house and will be leaving the skilled care facility any day, even though they are unable to take care of their daily needs without assistance. "OK miss patient, I'll sit and listen while you pray" (inside my head I will be adding that I will not say "amen", because I cannot agree with their delusion that some invisible sky bully is going to deliver them safely from surgery, it's in the skill of the medical team that will be taking care of the patient and the health of the patient).
So, be warned: If you religious types want to sit and listen to logical reasons for the argument that there is no god, and really listen and think about what is being discussed, I'll try to listen to your stories about how you found god. You don't have to give up your faith (though if you truly do listen and think about what is said you will have doubts), and I will not give up my certainty that there is no invisible sky bully that will strike me down for not having faith in it.
I really wish the religious would keep their beliefs to themselves and stop bothering me while I am trying to study for a test!
Check out my photo site on deviantart: http://saoirse-meansfreedom.deviantart.com/
Sunday, April 6, 2008
It's official: 4.0's across the board!
Yep, got my grades and I managed to pull A's out of all three classes! I'm a happy camper right now!
check out my deviant art page:
http://saoirse-meansfreedom.deviantart.com/
check out my deviant art page:
http://saoirse-meansfreedom.deviantart.com/
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Scooter!
I just bought a new scooter! Of course we showed up after work and were too late for the dealer to be able to let us walk out the door with it (licensing, etc.) so I had to wait to today to pick it up. BUT...just another snafu...the guy did a dyslexia and transposed 2 numbers on the vin and now I gotta get the paperwork signed, again, before I can pick it up. Luckily, he said he would stay a little late to wait for us to get there. So, now I am anxiously waiting to go to being my new baby home!
Saturday, March 29, 2008
I'm back!
| Finished with finals for winter quarter! I have my grades from Anatomy and physiology 2 and lifespan psychology and am EXTREMELY please with myself. I am pretty sure I did well in the statistics class also and am anxiously awaiting Monday when the grades should be posted. I have been so busy and a bit stressed with 16 credits and still working full time. I have the next week off and hey do I need it! Hope to take a few good pictures and relax before spring quarter begins. Next quarter is going to be hell. My schedule starts at 7 am to work, off at 2pm to drive to school which starts at 3pm and finishes at 10 pm. That's Monday through Thursday. For April I have to work Sundays with a class on Saturday, so no rest there. In May I will get Sunday's off while still doing the Saturday class, so I will actually get a real day off to study and catch up on sleep. I am so glad I am done with A&P, it is one of the most difficult classes I have ever taken (but extremely fascinating and wouldn't want to not take it). I think the most difficult part is that I feel rushed rather than being able to take my time and really learn the nitty-gritty details that are so very interesting. Hope all is well! Check out my photography: http://saoirse-meansfreedom.deviantart.com/ | |
Monday, October 22, 2007
Avoiding offense
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/6420AP_WA_Nonreligious_Christmas.html
Seatac is trying to avoid offending their international customers this holiday season by putting up non-religious based winter decorations. I applaud their endeavors.
On the other hand one of my co-workers is highly offended and believes that this is why America is going down the tubes and christianity is why America exists and was created.
I tried to reasonably point out that Seatac is an international business, with international customers and it was a good idea to try to not offend these customers. I also tried to point out that America was founded on freedom from religious persecution, but that went right over his head.
I also believe that the reason America is "going down the tubes" is BECAUSE of religion: we are in a "holy" war against Islam (of course this war was not entirely instigated by us, or the entire Islam religion, mostly the fundamentalists and radicals who can't stand a place where freedom is allowed-it undermines their enslavement of their followers, especially the women). We are in a very unpopular war and we are there because our president is trying to strengthen his moral standing as a christian and rid the Islamic religion of their fundamentalist and radical leaders (not an entirely bad thing, he's just going about it entirely wrong).
Giving these people a decent education and enforcing the human rights of every human on the planet-freedom from enslavement and oppression by those in power would accomplish a much longer standing democracy in these countries that trying to force one down the throats of clerics who want their sect to accumulate power.
OK, this is a rant and doesn't entirely make sense and I have to run off to class so I don't have time to go through and make sure this is saying exactly what I want it to (not all blog statements are entirely truthful of my own opinion).
Hope I didn't offend too many of you...then again, I hope I did, maybe you will think about what it is that offends you and try to figure out why. Think for yourself dammit!
Seatac is trying to avoid offending their international customers this holiday season by putting up non-religious based winter decorations. I applaud their endeavors.
On the other hand one of my co-workers is highly offended and believes that this is why America is going down the tubes and christianity is why America exists and was created.
I tried to reasonably point out that Seatac is an international business, with international customers and it was a good idea to try to not offend these customers. I also tried to point out that America was founded on freedom from religious persecution, but that went right over his head.
I also believe that the reason America is "going down the tubes" is BECAUSE of religion: we are in a "holy" war against Islam (of course this war was not entirely instigated by us, or the entire Islam religion, mostly the fundamentalists and radicals who can't stand a place where freedom is allowed-it undermines their enslavement of their followers, especially the women). We are in a very unpopular war and we are there because our president is trying to strengthen his moral standing as a christian and rid the Islamic religion of their fundamentalist and radical leaders (not an entirely bad thing, he's just going about it entirely wrong).
Giving these people a decent education and enforcing the human rights of every human on the planet-freedom from enslavement and oppression by those in power would accomplish a much longer standing democracy in these countries that trying to force one down the throats of clerics who want their sect to accumulate power.
OK, this is a rant and doesn't entirely make sense and I have to run off to class so I don't have time to go through and make sure this is saying exactly what I want it to (not all blog statements are entirely truthful of my own opinion).
Hope I didn't offend too many of you...then again, I hope I did, maybe you will think about what it is that offends you and try to figure out why. Think for yourself dammit!
Friday, September 28, 2007
It's A Miracle!
I walked into the bookstore at my technical college to purchase some study aids and I encountered a miracle! I don't believe in miracles, but I may have to argue that this event approaches such a status. Especially where I live, in the heart of the west coast bible belt.
One of the biology study guides, right there in the front of the store, right out on top of the stack, had a section about the cellular and molecular evidence for evolution! I had to buy the guide, even though I am not taking biology.
****Now that I think about it though, why do we have to justify this evidence? Well, I guess scientifically, we should be justifying it, and students should demand justification, as a means of starting to check the facts (we don't have time to go and do all the research for every fact presented to us, we need to learn the material-hopefully not entirely by rote-and do more extensive research later, if we still have questions, don't completely understand the material, it interests us enough to do so, etc.). But I am concerned that we may be spending alot of energy trying to "prove our point" when it doesn't need that much energy to be accepted because of overwhelming evidence that it is true. AND IT JUST MAKES SENSE!
How can anyone, who sees the world as it REALLY is, is in touch with reality, believe that humans, and all other life, sprang into existence suddenly? How can anyone believe there is some uber-complex being that created the world and all life and the entire universe, yet is unwilling to remove evil from this creation to make it a better place? Who would want to worship that being anyway? And if we are so complex that we had to be created by this thing, who created this uber-being? Shouldn't this thing, being complex enough to create us and our universe have to have an even more complex creator? Where does the madness end? Maybe we should be worshiping this creator of the creator? ***k that ***t! If such a being exists, I doubt it would even know we existed or care. Therefore, I say to each uber-being their own, and I will worship (put myself into slavery) nothing for any reason! May lightning strike me now if I am wrong...
The self-deluded wishers of something to take responsibility for their lives (and lack of willpower) make me VERY angry (and you won't like me when I'm angry)!
I wish we could make some sudden huge advances in technology and especially space travel and send them all off to some world of their own, quarantine the place and come back in several centuries after they've all killed each other in their pointless arguments about who's uber-being is the true one. (I'd also like to sterilize them, or make them give their children up for adoption, because their lack of self-responsibility is grounds for charges of child abuse, mental manipulation and brainwashing, etc.-they don't deserve the privilege of raising children.)***
So, to get back to school, we are doing a tiny bit of histology...WOW! Sure wish I could take pictures of some of these beautiful close-up views of what makes up the components of life-the cell. How can anyone think these, with their complex mechanism for maintaining themselves, could possibly have come into existence suddenly? I think about all the tiny steps that were necessary to get to the single cell level and I am just amazed! It takes my breath away that these units of life even exist! Of course they do, because we are here!
It's a miracle! So is smelling dinner when I walk in the house in the evening, despite what my professor says. There's no way diffusion can change my boys to be so thoughtful!
One of the biology study guides, right there in the front of the store, right out on top of the stack, had a section about the cellular and molecular evidence for evolution! I had to buy the guide, even though I am not taking biology.
****Now that I think about it though, why do we have to justify this evidence? Well, I guess scientifically, we should be justifying it, and students should demand justification, as a means of starting to check the facts (we don't have time to go and do all the research for every fact presented to us, we need to learn the material-hopefully not entirely by rote-and do more extensive research later, if we still have questions, don't completely understand the material, it interests us enough to do so, etc.). But I am concerned that we may be spending alot of energy trying to "prove our point" when it doesn't need that much energy to be accepted because of overwhelming evidence that it is true. AND IT JUST MAKES SENSE!
How can anyone, who sees the world as it REALLY is, is in touch with reality, believe that humans, and all other life, sprang into existence suddenly? How can anyone believe there is some uber-complex being that created the world and all life and the entire universe, yet is unwilling to remove evil from this creation to make it a better place? Who would want to worship that being anyway? And if we are so complex that we had to be created by this thing, who created this uber-being? Shouldn't this thing, being complex enough to create us and our universe have to have an even more complex creator? Where does the madness end? Maybe we should be worshiping this creator of the creator? ***k that ***t! If such a being exists, I doubt it would even know we existed or care. Therefore, I say to each uber-being their own, and I will worship (put myself into slavery) nothing for any reason! May lightning strike me now if I am wrong...
The self-deluded wishers of something to take responsibility for their lives (and lack of willpower) make me VERY angry (and you won't like me when I'm angry)!
I wish we could make some sudden huge advances in technology and especially space travel and send them all off to some world of their own, quarantine the place and come back in several centuries after they've all killed each other in their pointless arguments about who's uber-being is the true one. (I'd also like to sterilize them, or make them give their children up for adoption, because their lack of self-responsibility is grounds for charges of child abuse, mental manipulation and brainwashing, etc.-they don't deserve the privilege of raising children.)***
So, to get back to school, we are doing a tiny bit of histology...WOW! Sure wish I could take pictures of some of these beautiful close-up views of what makes up the components of life-the cell. How can anyone think these, with their complex mechanism for maintaining themselves, could possibly have come into existence suddenly? I think about all the tiny steps that were necessary to get to the single cell level and I am just amazed! It takes my breath away that these units of life even exist! Of course they do, because we are here!
It's a miracle! So is smelling dinner when I walk in the house in the evening, despite what my professor says. There's no way diffusion can change my boys to be so thoughtful!
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Leave Religion Out of the Psychology, Please!
Classes have started and wouldn't you know it...This is the first time I have taken an online course (I am actually taking 2 online classes--statistics and lifespan psychology). In the math class I have many classmates that are arithmophoes. I can deal with this, even though so far the class has had no math to speak of. In the psychology class (which scares me, because too many people have used psychology to do some REALLY evil things--I speak of the 12 step program and others that have you give up one unhealthy addiction for another: religion), we have already had someone scream out their "love for the lord." AAAARRRRGGGHHH!!!
I immediately wanted to reply with, "Can we please leave religion out of this subject?" But I thought I should probably pass it by the instructor first.
My only-on campus class is Anatomy and Physiology.
The A&P instructor seems very passionate about teaching and is fun to watch, but he was scaring me: "If you work full time and are taking other classes, you better drop them now...you will be expected to do at least 15 hours of studying outside of class and lab..."
I am working full-time-I have to to pay the rent and keep gas in the car and pay for my classes, etc., and I really want to get into the nursing program by next fall at the latest, so I'm ignoring his threats for now.
I am hoping, even though my A&P is 15 and more years old, that this will be mostly review to me and I'll do fine anyway. I have 174 pages to read/study by Monday, I also have several chapters in each of the other texts as well. I LOVE to read (I guess that's a good thing!).
I immediately wanted to reply with, "Can we please leave religion out of this subject?" But I thought I should probably pass it by the instructor first.
My only-on campus class is Anatomy and Physiology.
The A&P instructor seems very passionate about teaching and is fun to watch, but he was scaring me: "If you work full time and are taking other classes, you better drop them now...you will be expected to do at least 15 hours of studying outside of class and lab..."
I am working full-time-I have to to pay the rent and keep gas in the car and pay for my classes, etc., and I really want to get into the nursing program by next fall at the latest, so I'm ignoring his threats for now.
I am hoping, even though my A&P is 15 and more years old, that this will be mostly review to me and I'll do fine anyway. I have 174 pages to read/study by Monday, I also have several chapters in each of the other texts as well. I LOVE to read (I guess that's a good thing!).
Thursday, September 13, 2007
God (don't) bless America!
It's amazing how little people know about their own country. The national anthem for the United States of America is the Star-Spangled Banner (not God Bless America)! And I think that is a wonderful fact. The Star-Spangled Banner is a great song, it speaks of pride, in the midst of a terrible battle, we still had pride in ourselves and what we were fighting for: our freedom. Freedom from the persecution of religion that was prevalent in Europe at the time. Too bad we didn't continue in the direction we started in!
If you look at some of the links to other sites that feature topics on atheism, you may find quotes from some of our most well known (at least by name) founding fathers and presidents. Most of them had something to say about America being better off without religion. I think our current political leaders need some strong history lessons!
God is not going to bless, me, or America and the devil is not going to damn me either: because neither exist!
If you look at some of the links to other sites that feature topics on atheism, you may find quotes from some of our most well known (at least by name) founding fathers and presidents. Most of them had something to say about America being better off without religion. I think our current political leaders need some strong history lessons!
God is not going to bless, me, or America and the devil is not going to damn me either: because neither exist!
Sunday, September 9, 2007
Autism and ADHD
This is going to a very different post than my first ones, and hopefully most of my posts will be more along these lines. I need to rant sometimes, especially when something at work just brings my blood to a boil, but I really want to share the experiences I have as a nursing student and how I integrate the experience with my reason.
I just received my first text book for my basic psychology class. I am excited! Not necessarily about psychology, which can have some very mystical thoughts on how our minds work.
I cracked open the book and started looking over things and found a companion web-site for the book. This must be part of how they can do this class on-line! I check out the web-site and find that I can do assignments...I wonder if I can get a head start..Oh, heck, it won't hurt!
Now I know more about autism and ADHD than ever before. Some of this stuff seems scary (especially the part about removing metals from children's bodies and we don't know if it even helps cure the autism)!
I know it is frustrating and scary to have a child with social, developmental and physical needs, but think about what you are doing to your children! Do the research, find out about alternatives, talk to your doctor, talk to other doctors, check and double check and triple check! Some of these therapies seem pretty harmless, but they also seem to not really do anything to help the children. Some of the therapies seem downright medieval and need to be researched more carefully. Some of these therapies may do more harm than good and we need to be vigilant in being advocates for each other in keeping the charlatans from practicing their witchcraft.
ADHD doesn't seem as devastating, but I am sure it can still be as frustrating and difficult to deal with. (I know from working with an adult ADHD individual that it is frustrating and difficult to deal with at times, especially when the individual does not take their medication at the prescribed dose and times...) Although it is incurable by any treatments that we currently know about, it does seem to be controllable in most individuals, even if they are not one of the lucky few to outgrow it by the time they reach adulthood.
I encourage anyone who has ADHD, or has a child with ADHD to talk to your doctor, follow their advice, talk to them more about how the medication and other therapy is helping or not. It seems that the earlier ADHD is diagnosed and treatment started the better the overall outcome for the child and adult. And SUGAR does not cause or exacerbate ADHD!
Now I have two more of my text books, making the completion of my collection for this quarter at 60%. I am only $300 dollars poorer for this collection of books and they are all used! I love books and have a difficult time letting them go, even if I never plan to use them again, but I think I will have to start...anyone interested in a calculus book?
I just received my first text book for my basic psychology class. I am excited! Not necessarily about psychology, which can have some very mystical thoughts on how our minds work.
I cracked open the book and started looking over things and found a companion web-site for the book. This must be part of how they can do this class on-line! I check out the web-site and find that I can do assignments...I wonder if I can get a head start..Oh, heck, it won't hurt!
Now I know more about autism and ADHD than ever before. Some of this stuff seems scary (especially the part about removing metals from children's bodies and we don't know if it even helps cure the autism)!
I know it is frustrating and scary to have a child with social, developmental and physical needs, but think about what you are doing to your children! Do the research, find out about alternatives, talk to your doctor, talk to other doctors, check and double check and triple check! Some of these therapies seem pretty harmless, but they also seem to not really do anything to help the children. Some of the therapies seem downright medieval and need to be researched more carefully. Some of these therapies may do more harm than good and we need to be vigilant in being advocates for each other in keeping the charlatans from practicing their witchcraft.
ADHD doesn't seem as devastating, but I am sure it can still be as frustrating and difficult to deal with. (I know from working with an adult ADHD individual that it is frustrating and difficult to deal with at times, especially when the individual does not take their medication at the prescribed dose and times...) Although it is incurable by any treatments that we currently know about, it does seem to be controllable in most individuals, even if they are not one of the lucky few to outgrow it by the time they reach adulthood.
I encourage anyone who has ADHD, or has a child with ADHD to talk to your doctor, follow their advice, talk to them more about how the medication and other therapy is helping or not. It seems that the earlier ADHD is diagnosed and treatment started the better the overall outcome for the child and adult. And SUGAR does not cause or exacerbate ADHD!
Now I have two more of my text books, making the completion of my collection for this quarter at 60%. I am only $300 dollars poorer for this collection of books and they are all used! I love books and have a difficult time letting them go, even if I never plan to use them again, but I think I will have to start...anyone interested in a calculus book?
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