The trouble I have with "Creationism" is that it is predominantly a Christian belief.

I am ever thankful to have been raised by an agnostic, as this has granted me the ability to see the world, life, etc., through a bird's eye view. I think it's important for all people to be educated with as many religions as possible and not just any one specific belief system. I don't wish to berate Christians (or any other religion) but I find most die-hard bible-thumpers were born and raised CHRISTIAN. Of course they're going to defend their steadfast belief relentlessly!

Let me ask you something. If you were raised Hindu, for example, do you honestly think you would have such strong Christian views? Would you just magically convert one day and -- voila -- have "found god" just like that? I ask that to any strong Christian advocates, not to anyone in particular. You might find that instead of defending the bible and conjuring up all sorts of analyses about omens and divine interventions, you would be debating the "irrifutible" evidence behind reincarnation and the role Shiva plays in all our lives.

Personally, I've always tried to look at life as a realist. I don't know anything, nor do I claim to know. Only one thing is certain to me: whatever after life (or lack thereof) may exist, we're not supposed to know. How could any human go on living if they actually, truly knew the answer to that question? To the faithful -- and I mean this with no disrespect -- I say, go ahead and believe until you are blue in the face. You still don't KNOW.

And yet, as the realist I am I find both traditional Christian ideals AND scientific atheism unconvincing. It's entirely possible there exists a god(s) and yet no afterlife. Or that said god(s) have absolutely no concern for the individual. I try not to deny the possibility of anything. I've taken a lot from a multitude of religions over the years, and am thankful to have maintained an open mindedness enough to learn from each. I've found aspects of Buddhism and Suffism, in particular, both fascinating and convincing, for example.

I cannot accept the flat belief of raw atheism simply because of the ability of the human mind. What purpose does it serve in nature? Take lucid dreaming for example. Why are we, as humans, capable of such feats? That shouldn't automatically point us towards religion, but it definately says that a greater unknown exists, one unexplained by both religion AND science.

I don't know necessarily that governments and media are trying to promote evolution for malicious purposes. Maybe they are, though that doesn't necessarily make it incorrect. I haven't pursued the topic greatly but I would guess the opposite, that Christianity is promoted and shoved down our throats. The right-winged conservatives tout "traditional Christian" values every step of the way. That doesn't sound like evolution promotion if you ask me.

Again, I hope this does not offend those of you strong in the Christin faith. I ask that you respect my opinions and beliefs as I respect yours. This is merely discussion.