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God and Harry Potter
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God and Harry Potter |
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wayoutwalt Member Elite
since 1999-06-22
Posts 4870TEXAS (it's all big) 
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If God were not real-let’s try to pretend Just a fairy tale, though nicely was penned Then comes the movie and all of the fans Buy up the tickets with their sweaty hands That hold the mint cards, collector items All of the scripture, they easily site ‘em And all the shirts say, “God: Soon Is Coming” The movie would be the longest running Sitcoms would prevail and cartoons would too And people would watch, their eyes like glue Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers to follow All the truths found not hard to swallow The coming of Christmas God would be known The sparkling toy, children must own God would pose pictures at every mall With jolly old lap in which you could crawl Up and tell him, this year, you want God You won't hear him speak just watch as he nods And God would be "in" the rest of the year Until a a new movie was looming near Plastic God toys break off at their arms Kids trade them in for ruby red charms Nothing would happen to sons and daughters Here would come slither a Harry Potter I heard a kid ask his dumbfounded friend "Is there anything wrong if we just pretend?" (of course I am the biggest Star Wars fan ever but I am learning) |
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| © Copyright 2001 Walt Burns - All Rights Reserved | |||
Larry C
since 2001-09-10
Posts 10286United States |
Walt, Really? You are good! Amen.  Sin isn't fair, but God got even, grace isn't fair either. larry c |
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EagleScorpion Senior Member
since 2000-03-08
Posts 1644Here, Now, Forever |
I just saw Harry Potter today.. I must say Walt it was a really good movie. I was thinking to myself about "how does all of this tie in with God?" (that is, if Harry Potter magic DID exist, which it DOESN'T < Make believing is a wonderful thing.. I think everyone should take a chance to just make belive about something every now and then |
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wayoutwalt Member Elite
since 1999-06-22
Posts 4870TEXAS (it's all big) |
In my belief you can practice witchcraft and dark magic and the devil will just grab hold of you and again in my belief playing with it is like playing with fire. Thanks for the comments o yuh |
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Startime Member Ascendant
since 2000-10-03
Posts 5918Canada |
*giggling* I think I will just stick to weaving fantasies with my pen. This is really good, Walt. Now I am going to have to go see the movie. I love those kind of movies. Love I leave with you whether it is in your life now or yet the essense of your dreams. |
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wayoutwalt Member Elite
since 1999-06-22
Posts 4870TEXAS (it's all big) |
Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh do what you want to do Startime but don't let me think I caused you to go see the movie!!! yuh yuh [This message has been edited by wayoutwalt (edited 11-19-2001).] |
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Blackdrake Member
since 1999-07-23
Posts 83Depends on the day :) |
Biggest star wars fan eh? hehe ill fight ya for that title . Only one problem, I was not alive to see the originals.. But alas life goes on.... and yet again, anothet movie i should go see, to see what we are showing out kids these days, ... honest ...... hehehe  |
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serenity blaze Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738 |
aw geez, Walt...you know I love you, and I love your work but do we add The Classics too? "The Wizard of Oz"? "Mary Poppins"? and Grimms Fairytales are downright, well, GRIM. Perhaps this my answer is more suited for the discussion forum, but while I think this is well written, I do politely disagree. I am Wiccan--and trust me---Harry Potter is a fantasy that has little to do with the reality of the practice of that religion and I must also decry censorship. With hugs, Walt. (By the way, am waiting for part II of your prose story, "The Imaginings") |
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Midnitesun
since 2001-05-18
Posts 28647Gaia |
Well, I've read the first Harry Potter book, and saw the movie. I liked them both. I think it is a great imagination and fun, and as enjoyable to read as Tolkien's 'Hobbit' series, and Tad Williams 'Otherland', and of course, 'Alice In Wonderland.' Your poem is very interesting, as are all of your posts. But I'm afraid my POV on this one is a polar opposite. |
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JamesMichael Member Empyrean
since 1999-11-16
Posts 33336Kapolei, Hawaii, USA |
While everybody was lining up for the Harry Potter stuff I was watching the movie "Amelie"...a very French movie...it was fantastic...simply fantastic...James |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
Two lines of thought, and it takes a poet to bring it to the table in wonderful form... well done, our Walt! |
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wayoutwalt Member Elite
since 1999-06-22
Posts 4870TEXAS (it's all big) |
All the old tales what makes them any better? is it that they are old? God casts magic users into the fire of lake (Revelations 21) and hows it any better for a kid to go to the movie and wish they could be like Harry than it is for a lustful eye to follow a naked woman in a porno. God calls that sin as well. Watch what your kids are pretending.... Oh and dont let me tell you what to do or anything... Thanks as always for the comments yuh |
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elisaseyes Member
since 1999-07-15
Posts 196fort worth texas |
I applaud you, Walt, for being so bold about such a controversial topic. . . and put it into poetry. I absolutely agree with you and God's word regarding wizardry, sorcery, black magic, mediums and witchcraft. Kudos for stating where you stand when so many people see this danger as harmless fun. [This message has been edited by elisaseyes (edited 11-19-2001).] |
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Enchantress Member Empyrean
since 2001-08-14
Posts 35113Canada eh. |
Hi Walt..gee, it is very hard for me to say too much on this topic, being in the profession of magically entertaining youngsters for more years than I can even remember. I would invite you to visit my site if you have not as yet. A very good write and always topical. Magical smiles, Nancy. www.MyMagicLand.homestead.com ~I've loved you forever, in lifetimes before.~ |
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Balladeer
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-05
Posts 25505Ft. Lauderdale, Fl USA |
Gee, I must be missing the point (I do that on occassion). I thought this was a great idea for a poem. I can imagine that, if there were no God and a producer came up with the idea of one for a movie, the hype that is used in these days would be awesome, especially with the special effects available today. SEE NOAH SAIL FOR 40 DAYS WITH TWO MEMBERS OF EVERY ANIMAL SPECIES ON EARTH AS THE WORLD IS COVERED WITH A GIANT FLOOD!!! SEE DANIEL SURVIVE THE LION'S DEN FILLED WITH FEROCIOUS BEASTS! WATCH DAVID SLAY A GIANT WITH A PRIMITIVE WEAPON! BEHOLD THE BURNING BUSH AND WATCH IN AWE AS JESUS RISES FROM THE DEAD!! Wow! If it were nothing but a movie script, Hollywood could go crazy in pre-opening hype! I assume that this is the tongue-in-cheek comparison Walt is pointing out in his incomparable style...so, if I missed something, don't tell me! - I like it this way |
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wayoutwalt Member Elite
since 1999-06-22
Posts 4870TEXAS (it's all big) |
Yuh thats it 'deer just a comparison of what if they hyped God and how easily things are gorgotten when something new comes along...oh and also the perils of pretend...not that I don't love a good imagination yuh |
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Elizabeth
Moderator
Member Ascendant
since 1999-06-07
Posts 6871Minnesota |
Hey Walt! You've expressed your opinion well here. I agree that there are some things that can be really dangerous. Not sure yet if Harry Potter is one of them, because I'm still learning too. Anyway, good poem.  God bless America, my home sweet home. |
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cruz Member
since 2000-07-18
Posts 282Dallas,Texas USA |
this poem is just what the dr. ordered! imaginication is cool and fantasy the like but God rulez. careful what you wish for. well written |
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serenity blaze Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738 |
I can only continue this in a discussion type forum. But please people, do keep in mind, that I can sling back chapter and verse...instead I invite all to a sensible discussion, to be conducted with respect and tolerance for all beliefs in one of the discussion forums, or whatever venue. But realize, that I do take my religion seriously--AS DO YOU--not something I drew in cartoons--and I would appreciate the same respect that I show others. Thank you. And Blessed Be. |
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wayoutwalt Member Elite
since 1999-06-22
Posts 4870TEXAS (it's all big) |
I understand that I have hurt some feelings with this and I am sorry... I wrote it with intentions to remind fellow Christians that our beliefs do not go with the beliefs of wizards and pretending to do so, as children would if they saw the movie, is a very dangerous thing to dabble in. Its only my belief, do please feel free to disagree with it and we can all get along. |
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Denise
Moderator
Member Seraphic
since 1999-08-22
Posts 22648 |
I agree, Walt. As Christian parents and grandparents we have to be so careful as to what we allow our little ones to be exposed. Not everything, no matter how culturally popular, is edifying or in their best interest mentally and spiritually. It's possible to portray fantasy and stimulate imagination and a love of reading without resorting to the trappings of the occult. Other's are entitled to their opinions and beliefs, of course, just as we are entitled to ours, but no one is responsible for our children except for us. I don't agree with censorship but I do advocate that parents take responsibility for that which they allow their children to become involved in. I've read many articles, pro and con, regarding the Harry Potter phenomenon and I found it peculiar that the predominant kudos were, "it's got kids interested in reading again", "it's a smash box-office hit", "the books are flying off the shelves", etc., but not a word addressing the affect that the occult theme could have on young impressionable minds. Not everything that kids are interested in is good for them. Just because something is a smash hit in the theatre or the book store, that is not necessarily a vindication of a movie or a book. It just means that it is popular, nothing more, nothing less. You done good, Walt! O Yuh! |
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Balladeer
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-05
Posts 25505Ft. Lauderdale, Fl USA |
I am just glad that my parents did not try so hard to protect me from evil that they refused to let me read about King Arthur and Merlin...and that they allowed me to watch FantasyLand and go to the Magic Kingdom. They even allowed me, and encouraged me, to believe in Santa Claus, knowing that he was a mythical figure and a lie....I suppose I would have been much better off with no magic or fantasy in my growing-up years.....but I doubt it |
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catalinamoon
since 2000-06-03
Posts 9543The Shores of Alone |
Love this, Walt. Long live magic Sandra |
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Midnitesun
since 2001-05-18
Posts 28647Gaia |
Balladeer, you took the words right out of my mouth. Was that a magic trick? I fail to see the difference in "harm" between the perennial Christmas tree and that jolly old fat man who drops down the chimney (hope it got swept clean this year!) and Harry on a broomstick, or waving magically to fend off the "bad" guys. I remember someone telling me the Lion King was sexist and a perversion of God's separation of the animals from the human's traits. But I do agree it is a good idea to be aware of what your children are watching and listening to, and a responsible caring parent should always strive to be a hands-on available trust worthy guide. |
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Tracey Member Elite
since 2001-08-29
Posts 2808where insanity meets breeding |
I'll leave all the discussion up to everyone else. All I know is I want to go see the movie and I'm too old to see it by myself (all the kids'll be going..."hey...what's that lady doing seeing a kids movie"?? ) So I'm asking my brother if I can borrow my niece for a few hours and take her. That way, I get to see it without looking like a dork!! LOL If she who dies with the most toys wins, then can I have some toy boys please? |
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wayoutwalt Member Elite
since 1999-06-22
Posts 4870TEXAS (it's all big) |
It all needs to just be cast out and we all need to follow Jesus but that is totally easier said than done I know. Harry Potter in my opinion is a cancer just like Santa Claus and everything else that gets in the way of following Jesus. I know I am a hypocrite in highest degree and a major sinner but more promotion of witchcraft especially this blatant sorcerer's tale of a movie is in no regards a good thing for the already tormented traditionalistic and habit loving human of today. Please don't think my poem is pro-magic as I am seeing some replies making me think the reader is having me promote the movie or something. Anyway before this is over I am sure that I will be well hated here so I close with an : all the above mentioned ideas and such are the formation of the author and aren't neccesarily those of passions or the reader and remain as always IMHO! |
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Balladeer
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-05
Posts 25505Ft. Lauderdale, Fl USA |
..and with those words we have exceeded the Open Forum's boundaries. Any further discussion can be held in a discussion Forum. This case of Harry Potter is closed... AND HERE WE ARE!! [This message has been edited by Balladeer (edited 11-21-2001).] |
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Kit McCallum
Administrator
Member Laureate
since 2000-04-30
Posts 14774Ontario, Canada |
Although we're in a discussion forum now, I don't have any comments regarding the discussion itself ... but rather, wanted to simply comment on the poem. I thought this poem was excellent from the box office angle draw Walt. It's really amazing how far the marketing and promotion wheel can take things nowadays, and I think you captured that aspect extremely well in your poem. I really enjoyed it from that vantage. Best wishes, /Kit |
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Alwye
Moderator
Member Elite
since 1999-06-16
Posts 3850In the space between moments |
I think that this is most certainly a tough issue. I must say that I've agreed with everything you have written, Balladeer. Children should be allowed to pretend and to be exposed to many different elements. I have never personally gone to church except a few select times with neighbors and I am sad for that. Not because I want to be forced into one way of thinking, but rather because I was given no exposure to anything. I am glad that I have finally been subjected to many different religions and have chosen the elements of spirituality that suit me. I disagree that a simple story could lure children to practice black magic and become evil. On the contrary, it seems to me that the Harry Potter stories seem to be more about comradery and believing in yourself than anything else. I have not personally read them or seen the movie, so I can not be an accurate judge of that as of yet, but my best friend has spoken to me in detail of their content. I also don't believe that people should judge the content of such stories and movies without seeing them first. I'm not accusing anyone of that, but my best friend just had a disagreement with a person that hardly knew the basis of the story. And that is why I am not going into great detail with my opinions because I've decided to wait until I see/read Harry Potter and decide if my opinion changes. I doubt it will, based on what I already know, but it's good to be informed. I respect everyone's opinion on this matter, of course, and am glad it can be discussed with class and respect here. Part of what makes this place great, don't ya think? And Walt~ I liked the basis of the poem, a very interesting angle to take. You're so right about how Hollywood would hipe up such a thing. I liked the poem a lot, even if I don't agree with your viewpoints. But it's good to disagree now and then, isn't it?  Hugs and smiles to everyone.  *Krista Knutson* "An eye for an eye only ends up making the whole world blind." -Gandhi [This message has been edited by Alwye (edited 11-21-2001).] |
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Balladeer
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-05
Posts 25505Ft. Lauderdale, Fl USA |
Thank you for your comment, alwye. Yes, I've always believed in children's fantasy. Normally parents know that, as the child grows, they recognize the difference between fantasy and reality and recall the fantasy with a smile and move on with their lives. I don't know any 30 year olds who still believe in the tooth fairy (well, maybe LongJohn). I know that my life would have been much poorer without King Arthur, Peter Pan, Grimm's Fairy Tales and Hans Christian Anderson, not to mention the Man of Steel!! |
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Dusk Treader
Moderator
Senior Member
since 1999-06-18
Posts 1187St. Paul, MN |
I've read all four Harry Potter books cover to cover. Twice. LOL. They're wonderful books and I don't see how anyone who has read them can equate them with promoting witchcraft and thereby devil workship and the black arts. The books to me represent fun and childhood in pure tones. The magic is at mostly half serious and quite funny. How evil is a light "Put-Outer" and various other nifty contraptions and humorous spells. The book teaches commaraderie and tolerance of other's differences, and how we are all unique in someway and have powers within us. I'd even say you might be able to call it the Holy Spirit, for can't it work miracles through us? The tone of the book is lightly sarcastic and light hearted, except when it comes to figures of evil. All the protagonists have upstanding morals and villians are dealt with of course, though Voldemort, the evil wizard, does get away often. My own personal belief is that saying Harry Potter promotes witchcraft is a bit over dramatic. It's not as if it had children out drawing pentagrams on the sidewalk and sacrificing goats. Pretending, imagination and a little "magic" enriches every childs life. Provides a small escape or joy to their life. It made me feel good that every little boy and girl was benefited by Santa, that there was magic out there when I felt I was useless. "A hard, cold wisom is required for goodness to accomplish good. Goodness without wisdom always accomplishes evil" - Robert Heinlein |
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Sudhir Iyer Member Ascendant
since 2000-04-26
Posts 6943Mumbai, India : now in Belgium |
Walt, this is really a great write... Much enjoyed reading your perspective... Regards, Sudhir P.S. as for the discussion... I love fantasy stories. Life would have been incomplete if I hadn't had my share of reading mystical stories. Magic is an performing art, just like singing or acting, and should be left at that. talking of tooth fairies, next thing we know is we start believing in Uncle Santa... whatever... have fun all of you people... life is too short to believe in the ghosts who walk...  the only ghosts around are the ghosts of guilt, hurt ego and other similar dark shadows... now where is my cup of blood-wine, I want to sink my teeth in that cup again, my regards to all, Sudhir |
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Dusk Treader
Moderator
Senior Member
since 1999-06-18
Posts 1187St. Paul, MN |
Walt: I forgot to tell you that despite my views, I thought your poem was very well written. It's too bad that a super-hyped "God: the movie" is much more realistic than any Biblical tale. Though are views on this discussion are different, I still enjoyed your poem. "A hard, cold wisom is required for goodness to accomplish good. Goodness without wisdom always accomplishes evil" - Robert Heinlein |
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Secret Whisper Member
since 2001-01-25
Posts 298Through the Looking Glass |
My only thought on Harry Potter is that it is this years 'fad' (like tickle-me-Elmo or beanie babies). Harry Potter is 2002; God is eternal. Quod me nutrit me destruit. |
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doreen peri Member Elite
since 1999-05-25
Posts 3812Virginia |
before i make my comment, please know that i didn't read all of the responses, only scrolled through and got the gist of the issues..... reminded me sorta like going to college then writing at 8am some answer to a major exam essay.... but anyway... all i have to say is... harry potter is magic!!!!!! art, literature, wonder....... no more deeper meaning than that.... beauty projected into the souls of exploration.... our children.... reaching out to learn literature, theatre, art and Love..... i Love Harry Potter....... (and i believe that to project positive feelings and explorations of the human spirit within as many avenues as are available, while paving new roads to reach the awesome beauty of fantasy as it reflects Truth and Joy.... these are some of our purposes as human beings.... literature is the art of imagination) brb to post a link.... |
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doreen peri Member Elite
since 1999-05-25
Posts 3812Virginia |
http://title.forbiddenlibrary.com/ check this out... geezzzz fahrenhite 451??? (can't spell it but i read it...... *smile*) love you WOW~~!!!! a wonderful thread which makes us all think........and oh god how important that is...... i think... hehe... *wink*smooch* |
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