I think it was Richard Dawkins who said religion is child abuse, on further research I'm finding that Pullman is just anti-dogmatism.

Yeah, that's Dawkins. Hell Houses and other scare tactics are a big part of what he's talking about.

Although I don't think Pullman feels all that differently. He's a little more diplomatic about saying "organized religion."

What Zen Said.

The Arrabiatta sauce I bought at the supermarket in a fit of enthusiasm turns out to be pretty damn tasty -- I've been disappointed so often, you see. Most have either been too damn sweet, or else almost metallicly peppery, or worse, both.

I do recall my grade school friends trying desperately to get me to accept Jesus. They were convinced I was going to burn in Hell if I didn't. Poor little kids, losing sleep over their heathen, hell-bound friends. I can definitely see where Dawkins is coming from.

It's alarming how easy it was for me to believe that Left Behind thing was real.

We've been being told we should get her into modeling since she was wee, but I'd rather just let her be a kid, you know?

Oh, I know. I would, too. She's just gorgeous, is all. And so expressive.

The Bean is beautiful - and has some very cute outfits too.

Yay cuteness!

The girl I tried dating is here at the restaurant I'm in. I wonder if I should torture myself and say hi to her, or torture myself and avoid her.

Which would be the lesser torture?

If I avoid her, I'll keep believing she hates me, and if I talk to her, I'll confirm it--or disprove it. It's a coin toss.

It is better to regret the things you have done