In a message dated 98-11-23 20:01:00 EST, you write: << Christianity facilitates patriarchy and capitalism - systems of "power-over" rather than "power-from-within". Just the concept itself of an external god contradicts everthing that should be inherent to our relationships with each other, the Earth, animals, and all life. >> Hi! External God - WRONG!!!!!!!!!!!! The Holy Spirit dwells within us and around us - the power does come from within! Christianity does not faciliate capitalism - capitalism is human need for power that comes from having a lot of money! Has nothing to do with love of God or the Holy Spirit of God - Love of God has everything to do with not wanting your life to be an endless pursuit of money - therefore, Christianity is about a lot more then I am sure you know Sarah! As for the relationships - foster a relationship with the creator that is based on Love and Trust then let that lose on the rest of creation! That's my belief! This comes from within! Enough said - believe it or not - Christianity is about wholistic love of self and the rest of life - your minimal understanding of the Spirit perhaps comes from not obeying! You can not hear the sweet voice of loud - to buisy drowning it out with lies! Peace! Angela >From [EMAIL PROTECTED] Tue Nov 24 10:36:20 1998 From: "Us" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: "EcoFem" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: About Animals... Date: Tue, 24 Nov 1998 11:34:58 -0600 I have been thinking alot about this recent subject matter involving animals. I think animals teach us so much about humanity and treating all living creatures with respect and love. Animals can have an amazing effect on people, especially when they are around people who are lonely and need affection. There are programs in many nursing homes where animals, mostly dogs and cats, are brought in to visit with the residents, many of whom do not have many visitors and who probably do not have much contact with animals. I have read that animals can be therapeutic for some people. I know they certainly are for myself and many people I know. I think when a child responsibly and lovingly cares for a pet, that child is learning to love and care for the earth in some respect. I would hope this is true in many places, but I can only hope.
