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The God We're Stuck With
| Open Poetry #36 |
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The God We're Stuck With |
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Ratleader
since 2003-01-23
Posts 7026Visiting Earth on a Guest Pass 
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God leaves the seat up; he’s sloppy and it’s beyond us to change him now. Somehow we want to paint it tidy, won't accept truth, try to pretend. Oh it’s a grand canyon we say, secretly appalled at the mess. Here’s how it went: he read half of Universe For Dummies, glanced at the index, figured he could fake the rest. After all he was making us, what would we know? Trouble is, we do know. Oh yes, we know. There was a mother once, so young then and her salt prayers all so perfect, earnest..... And a child died while God was off winding up his ducks for another migration. Too late, too old, she still cries in the brine of unanswer; knowing, oh yes, knowing. |
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| © Copyright 2005 Ed Ratledge - All Rights Reserved | |||
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Ratleader
since 2003-01-23
Posts 7026Visiting Earth on a Guest Pass |
What can I say? I get cynical when I'm over-stressed..... ~~(¸¸¸¸ºº> ~~(¸¸¸¸ºº> ~~(¸¸ ¸¸ºº> ~~~(¸¸ER¸¸ºº> ______________Ratleader______________ |
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Midnitesun
since 2001-05-18
Posts 28647Gaia |
its the same God I've been talking to today and I've asked him to stop playin with those ducks for a few minutes and pay attention to what's happenin here |
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Martie
Moderator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-09-21
Posts 28049California |
Ed...You understand the reason this touches me...  |
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serenity blaze Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738 |
"As above, so below?"  Thanks much for the thought provoking read. Enjoyed.  |
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miscellanea Member Elite
since 2004-06-24
Posts 4060OH |
Ratleader, Cynical? I suppose! Well, you have my attention! Again, you leave me thinking... Yep, this part's true, but some of the other...not of my opinion. Each to his own, and for whatever moment the opinion exists. "After all he was making us, what would we know? Trouble is, we do know. Oh yes, we know." and what will we do about it? That's a question. As always, I admire the way you honestly and creatively express yourself. It's good to read your thoughts again. miscee |
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Ratleader
since 2003-01-23
Posts 7026Visiting Earth on a Guest Pass |
Ain't no use, Midnight....he's lackadaisical sometimes and that's that....sometimes if you backhand him a coupla times he'll stir out of it for a while, but it's not guaranteed. Yes Martie....that wasn't what began this poem, but when it came time to show, I thought those very thoughts. I could have chosen from many others though....I knew a man who lost one sense at a time; sight going from glaucoma, hearing fading fading, chemo took away half his sense of taste, polyps on vocal cords robbed his voice....and he a Presbyterian minister. Or there's another friend, who was raped almost weekly for years by the same unspeakable swine.....so many, so many. Yeah, serenity, I'm afraid it's exactly that way....and sometimes I just feel like saying truth even if it sounds like something I shouldn't be saying at all. But hey, if the emperor wandered out of the house without his clothes, it's ok to say that. Ah, dear misc....you're right of course.... but me and God have kind of a special relationship. I take my cue from Lot, who had arguments with God and won....when he screws up, I tell him exactly what I think of him and what he's done or left undone, with nothing spared.... no lightning yet, so I guess I'm ok.... Should note though, that I also make certain to say when I'm grateful for something I see he's done....and there are those things. I'll tell you about Nancy Nienhuis sometime -- if that story doesn't make a believer outta anyone who hears it, nothing will.... ~~(¸¸¸¸ºº> ~~(¸¸¸¸ºº> ~~(¸¸ ¸¸ºº> ~~~(¸¸ER¸¸ºº> ______________Ratleader______________ |
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Pilgrimage Member Elite
since 2001-12-04
Posts 3945Texas, USA |
Well, he made us, didn't he? And gave us free will. We're supposed to take care of the unfinished bits, it's what we're here for. Some people can't seem to get that. The angels don't have free will, why should they? They're only messengers. We're the guys in the field, with autonomy and responsibility. But hey, I love the 'winding up ducks' bit--that one's great. Nan (Pilgrim variety) |
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Ratleader
since 2003-01-23
Posts 7026Visiting Earth on a Guest Pass |
That's true...and today we have learned enough about Rhys Syndrome that she probably wouldn't have fallen into it, and might well have been saved if she had....none of which eases the pain that mother carries forever....and which I do lay at God's feet. He could have spared her -- I've seen him spare children who were dying -- and he didn't. This modern Lot doesn't let him off the hook for that. ~~(¸¸¸¸ºº> ~~(¸¸¸¸ºº> ~~(¸¸ ¸¸ºº> ~~~(¸¸ER¸¸ºº> |
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LeeJ Member Patricius
since 2003-06-19
Posts 13296 |
God leaves the seat up; he’s sloppy and it’s beyond us to change him now. was just thinking about this the other day... good perspective...wonderful delivery...thank you! |
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Earth Angel Member Empyrean
since 2002-08-27
Posts 40215Realms of Light |
I must tell you, Dear Leader of Rats, that if I had read this while I was being raised in a strictly religious home, I would have been praying for your soul not to be damned for this "blasphemous" piece of ranting. ~ but I am now coming from a more spiritual place in my life, as opposed to the former fundamentalist way of thinking. We are a product of our environment, afterall! ~ and my environment has changed over the years as I searched for the path that was right for me.  I have a feeling that God is actually smiling ~ and understanding ~ how you are feeling. He has not given us the answers to our questions or the reasons as to why things are the way they are in this school of life. But in time, we will know ~ and then we will understand. You sure know how to grab one's attention with a title like that! lol Love & God's Light, Linda |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
And we were all made in his image. I guess that could either make us gods... or God, human. Or something like that. As for the write itself? Stress pours a lot out of you. Thank [Him] it hits paper! |
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Ratleader
since 2003-01-23
Posts 7026Visiting Earth on a Guest Pass |
Yup, I'm a believer too, but I don't varnish....and if I ever reach those pearly gates, I may sing with 'em, but I will also have some very pointed questions to ask our deity..... ~~(¸¸¸¸ºº> ~~(¸¸¸¸ºº> ~~(¸¸ ¸¸ºº> ~~~(¸¸ER¸¸ºº> |
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Ratleader
since 2003-01-23
Posts 7026Visiting Earth on a Guest Pass |
Yeah, Sunshine....I know he at least has a sense of humor -- one that's a bit too primitive for our estetic tastes, but he's got one. Look at it this way.....he set up the Big Bang, made all those stars and galaxies, planets and all the other stuff, built plants and animals & wound 'em up to run on their own, a whole universe of them on this one planet.....then he created the ultimate, the crowning jewel of all his masterpiece.....and it's us! If that ain't a sense of humor, there's no such thing! ~~(¸¸¸¸ºº> ~~(¸¸¸¸ºº> ~~(¸¸ ¸¸ºº> ~~~(¸¸ER¸¸ºº> ______________Ratleader______________ |
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suthern
since 1999-07-29
Posts 20723Louisiana |
This may be focused on one mother and her inexplicable loss that didn't have to be... but there are so many lines I identify with... and the sentiment... oh, yes. There are blessings in my life I know I don't deserve... and I give thanks for them more than daily. But when I see someone I love, someone who's served God to the best of his ability all his life change so dramatically I'm sure God has as much trouble recognizing him as we do... I give God an earful... and my tone isn't at all placating. *S* This reminds me of what I hear in more earthly relationships sometimes... "I love you... but there are times I don't LIKE you." And I guess that brings me back full circle to "in His image". *S* Superb, thought-provoking write! |
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Ratleader
since 2003-01-23
Posts 7026Visiting Earth on a Guest Pass |
Yes -- I've said exactly those words to the old coot! And also yes...I knew you'd relate to this one, past and present....but hopefully not future! Ya hear me up there??? NOT FUTURE!!! ~~(¸¸¸¸ºº> ~~(¸¸¸¸ºº> ~~(¸¸ ¸¸ºº> ~~~(¸¸ER¸¸ºº> |
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Dark Stranger Member Patricius
since 2001-03-19
Posts 13631West Coast |
er...you said she leaves the seat up? hehe..kewl poem guy!! |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
LOL at DS... See? S/He DID provide us all with a sense of humor... and wit. But Ed? Rant away anytime. Your strongest poetry comes out then. And we all grow from that. |
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Ratleader
since 2003-01-23
Posts 7026Visiting Earth on a Guest Pass |
Yeah, DS....the good book tips the hand on that...she's big on foot-washing..... ~~(¸¸¸¸ºº> ~~(¸¸¸¸ºº> ~~(¸¸ ¸¸ºº> ~~~(¸¸ER¸¸ºº> |
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Ratleader
since 2003-01-23
Posts 7026Visiting Earth on a Guest Pass |
Including me, sunny one! ~~(¸¸¸¸ºº> ~~(¸¸¸¸ºº> ~~(¸¸ ¸¸ºº> ~~~(¸¸ER¸¸ºº> |
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RSWells Member Elite
since 2001-06-17
Posts 2533 |
Well written. How could one NOT be cynical these days? Strange how so many stand at a reverent distance allowing mere mortals from primative ages to define our existence. Strange how we've evolved to reaching Mars, curing disease and communicating instantly with anyone on the planet yet cower in herds allowing few and select humans to proclaim that they, and they alone, hold the key to the truth of life and death as well as special knowledge of god. This is the jewish year of 5766 christian year 2005 Islamic year 1426 All major religions who believe we must all die to be saved and can't even agree what year it is. Who and what are these lunatics all waiting for? The suffering will only escalate on a planet expected to increase its population by 50% by the end of this century (on the christian calender). What god there is is way beyond our comprehension. The loud adherents to the warring religions stifle their followers from free thought and, incredibly, deny the constantly emerging facts that we, and all life, rose from the primordial ooze together. Our Mother, Earth, the only solid evidence of our origins, is now trampled, raped and ignored while millions die to place their Armageddon as priorty to others. The sooner the fantasies are decried the better our chances for survival. Admirable science aside, it should be obvious by now that we can expect no flying myths to "save" us. Human destiny is in human hands. Human hands which, in their prehensil formations became grasping and the covetous grasping becomes greedier as one climbs to the top of the tribal ponzi schemes. To dismiss all the constant unfairness as "god's plan" runs counter to our developement in all other areas. Let's not call this cynical but reality. Well written. |
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Ratleader
since 2003-01-23
Posts 7026Visiting Earth on a Guest Pass |
Wowzer! Thank you RSW -- this is just about the best reply I can remember having here in two and a half years.... ~~(¸¸¸¸ºº> ~~(¸¸¸¸ºº> ~~(¸¸ ¸¸ºº> ~~~(¸¸ER¸¸ºº> |
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Sunshine
Administrator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-06-25
Posts 63354Listening to every heart |
AND, Ed...you brought RS to the table! THAT in itself is a HUGE compliment! |
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Gentle Spirit Member Patricius
since 2000-10-09
Posts 13989 |
I love when you put your thoughts to the pages of blue. We have to write how we feel it, makes great poetry! *gotta chuckle at DS's comment* and RSW jumped out of the woodwork to. Very well done Ed! |
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Hockeychick19 Member
since 2002-10-29
Posts 430Massachusetts, USA |
Ed, I like this one it got me to chuckle a little and it made me think. Well written. *~Kelly~* |
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Midnitesun
since 2001-05-18
Posts 28647Gaia |
lol came back just to say i've left the seat up for you lol |
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Ratleader
since 2003-01-23
Posts 7026Visiting Earth on a Guest Pass |
Oh excellent! ....Now If I can get you to move the car seat back after you drive it, so I don't bang my knees when I get in...... ~~(¸¸¸¸ºº> ~~(¸¸¸¸ºº> ~~(¸¸ ¸¸ºº> ~~~(¸¸ER¸¸ºº> ______________Ratleader______________ |
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latearrival Member Ascendant
since 2003-03-21
Posts 5499Florida |
I loved this thread and felt it should go to the top. martyjo |
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garysgirl 
since 2002-09-29
Posts 19237Florida, USA |
Ed, I enjoyed reading this. And, have wondered some of the same things. (hope I don't get struck by lightning) It is so hard to understand the why of so many things in life. But, He said that if we knew everything, our minds couldn't comphrehend. So, I try so hard not to let the things I don't understand dwell on my mind. But, I do so fail miserably at times.....especially when I hear such terrible, horrific things that go on in our world concerning little children. I always wonder why God lets those things go on. And sometimes these terrible things happen from the hands of the parents of those children. Why those things are allowed to happen, I don't think I will ever understand!! A good thought-provoking write, Sir. Thank you. Hugs, Ethel |
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iliana Member Patricius
since 2003-12-05
Posts 13434USA |
I cracked up when you said he left the seat up, RatL. You are a cynic for sure, but one who prays outloud -- I am sure She/He hears but then there is that nasty bugar, free will. We can believe as we choose...and learning what we believe, truly our own reality, is up to us...what a journey!!! Enjoyed.......jo |
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Honeybunch Member Rara Avis
since 2001-12-29
Posts 7115South Africa |
Ed - I'm so glad I didn't read this sooner because the thread drawn out by your poem of excellence has been captivating. Sometimes thinking just confuses yet it is such a necessary part on the journey of life although I admit to being envious of those who don't stop to look and listen but just do. Thank you for a great piece of writing. Wish I could afford more time here but maybe one day "God" will make it possible. I've a feeling though that if it's gonna be then it's up to me - in all things. |
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Ratleader
since 2003-01-23
Posts 7026Visiting Earth on a Guest Pass |
This thread has been good for me too (he almost says "a godsend" out of pure cantankerousness!!!).... it's reminded me of just how much I value the people here, and I don't say that as a toss-off softism, the way we so often do. It's done exactly that. It's also gotten some people to read me who usually don't, or maybe folks who read and don't often respond.... that's the essence of joy to me, and it leaves me a bit humble at the same time. ~~(¸¸¸¸ºº> ~~(¸¸¸¸ºº> ~~(¸¸ ¸¸ºº> ~~~(¸¸ER¸¸ºº> ______________Ratleader______________ |
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LeeJ Member Patricius
since 2003-06-19
Posts 13296 |
I believe God has a wonderful sense of humor, be it He/She...this thread has done a world of good for me, needed to come back and read...many thanks |
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Martie
Moderator
Member Empyrean
since 1999-09-21
Posts 28049California |
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serenity blaze Member Empyrean
since 2000-02-02
Posts 27738 |
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