haha... I so so agree. this idea that we can compartmentalize spirituality and jam it into these religious cults seems goofy.
then again, it's taken me a long time to really sort through the gravitational force of the cult and the brainwashing it does to kids. I mean, up until a couple of years ago I would always get a lump in my throat whenever I said "I'm not a christian." the feelings were directly traceable to that very scary greek orthodox upbringing I had.
This is one of the reasons, amongst so many others, why your work is so incredibly important! My first girlfriend, when I was a teenager, grew up in a Greek Orthodox family. One time, I attended mass with her. Wow! Satanists have nothing on that shit when it come to solemn, terrifying theatrics. First of all, most of the sermon was in Latin, and the priest was dressed head to toe in some crazy robe. Furthermore, we all had to hold lit candles and perform some kind of "sign of the cross" bullshit, intermittently, as this guy spoke like something that would cause demon possession.
I understand that feeling of a lump in the throat, that fear of saying "fuck this shit, it isn't necessary to believe in it!" I felt that same kind of thing growing up, secretly disgusted with Christianity, but feeling a certain fear about voicing my opinion to my family, or even asking questions.
Alex, what you do, that is so very powerful, is that you are not afraid to ask the most difficult questions to some of the most world renowned thinkers. Your method of inquiry is an inspiration and beyond laudable. Certainly, you have inspired me when it comes asking difficult questions to those who would rather sit on their laurels and build sand castles in the sky that have no foundation at all. More than anything, you have shown that it is OK to break all boundaries during these inquiries, and yet remain respectful of one another. Only great people will understand that your method of inquiry is not incendiary, but in the bold pursuit of truth.
Love you, brother! Keep it up!