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[–]In-the-clouds[S] 1 insightful - 1 fun1 insightful - 0 fun2 insightful - 1 fun -  (11 children)

Welcome from Latvia! I am glad to meet you. I am in Arkansas, USA.

a religion somewhere far away

I asked AI chat: What is the distance in km from Latvia to Jerusalem, compared to Arkansas to Jerusalem?

Answer

The distance from Latvia to Jerusalem is approximately 2,995 km. On the other hand, the distance from Arkansas to Jerusalem is roughly 9,354 km. Therefore, the distance from Latvia to Jerusalem is significantly shorter than the distance from Arkansas to Jerusalem.

~

Isn't that ironic that I believe and yet you do not yet believe? I am much farther away from the place where the feet of Jesus Christ walked, where he taught his disciples, and where the Jews and Romans crucified him. They saw his face, saw the miracles he did, and heard his words, and yet they did not believe. And I am more than 3 times farther away from that location than you, and I believe Jesus is the truth. I am happy you said you "shall read the Bible" even if it is not high in your priority list. Can you read Latvian?

Viņš bija pasaulē, un pasaule caur viņu radusies, bet pasaule viņu nepazina. Viņš nāca pie savējiem, bet tie viņu neuzņēma.

https://www.bible.com/bible/1669/JHN.1.LTV1965

[–]Gravi 2 insightful - 2 fun2 insightful - 1 fun3 insightful - 2 fun -  (10 children)

The fact that Latvia is closer to the Middle East than Arkansas says and means nothing, Latvian territory was located in Europe and Jerusalem in the Middle East, therefore they are outside of each other and thus foreign.

It is not ironic that you believe since most Americans are immigrants from Europe, your argument or whatever you're trying to convey means little to nothing.

Of course I am able to read Latvian, I am Balt.

Overall your arguments and words have not conveyed anything new, all was heard at least once and all have no effect.

[–]In-the-clouds[S] 1 insightful - 1 fun1 insightful - 0 fun2 insightful - 1 fun -  (9 children)

I am far away from the Asian continent (where Israel is located and where Jesus was crucified) and my parents did not raise me to be Christian. I also do not go to a man-made "church". Yet I believe Jesus is the truth. I will tell you the key to finding the truth: neighborly love. God's fundamental nature is love, so a selfish man (as I used to be) will not believe in God. (I used to be an unbeliever like you.) If you practice unselfish love, you will move into the light and receive more truth. Until then, you are in darkness, blind and unable to see reality for what it really is.

[–]Gravi 1 insightful - 2 fun1 insightful - 1 fun2 insightful - 2 fun -  (8 children)

Neighborly love was a very respected value in the USSR, which was not Christian at all, it was comradery and friendship. I practice not selfish love, I grant it to those deserving. I needn't be Christian to be what most Christians deem "good".

I am not in the darkness nor am I blind, for a Christian has already said this to me but he was, alongside all his friends, were blinder than me because they do not see the truths I have unfolded nor seek them ever.

No Gods, No Kings, Only Man.

[–]In-the-clouds[S] 2 insightful - 1 fun2 insightful - 0 fun3 insightful - 1 fun -  (6 children)

No Gods, No Kings, Only Man.

With that attitude, you are an easy target for your spiritual enemies. You are only a weak mortal man, alone, with no higher power to call on for help, because you will not believe that an Almighty God actually loves you and came to earth in the man Jesus to die in your place. I pray you open your eyes before it is too late, before your soul is devoured by the enemy.

[–]Gravi 1 insightful - 2 fun1 insightful - 1 fun2 insightful - 2 fun -  (5 children)

Pray all you want, but I favor action above falsehoods and words, prayer and worship, from nature we come to nature we return.

I do not believe myself weak, I know myself not weak, I need not help from others, I am able to help myself and deities I do not call upon for I not feel them in any way shape or form even when I called upon them.

How much do thousands of words matter if all that matters is the strength of your hand?

[–]EddieC 1 insightful - 1 fun1 insightful - 0 fun2 insightful - 1 fun -  (0 children)

[–]In-the-clouds[S] 1 insightful - 1 fun1 insightful - 0 fun2 insightful - 1 fun -  (2 children)

I need not help from others

Do you grow all your own food? And provide your own water? Have you made all your own clothing? Did you make your shelter all by yourself? The fuel or energy you use: Did you get it all with your mighty hand?

No man can live by himself. We all need to help one another and work together. When man thinks he needs no one, his own selfish lusts cause him to try to dominate others. And here comes the chaos: war, famine, and disease.

[–]Gravi 1 insightful - 2 fun1 insightful - 1 fun2 insightful - 2 fun -  (1 child)

I try to grow as much food as I can.

I gather my own water, yes.

Your words here take the meaning of my words out of context and abandon their meaning altogether.

[–]tombombadl 1 insightful - 1 fun1 insightful - 0 fun2 insightful - 1 fun -  (0 children)

The act of cultivation and the collection of water for personal consumption are fundamental aspects of sustainable living. These practices not only provide individuals with a sense of self-sufficiency but also contribute to a more environmentally conscious and responsible lifestyle. However, it is crucial to engage in these activities with a comprehensive understanding of their implications and the context in which they are undertaken. Contextualizing Water Gathering and Food Production: The practice of gathering one's own water should not be viewed in isolation but rather as part of a holistic approach to water management. Responsible water usage, conservation efforts, and the exploration of alternative water sources are all integral components of sustainable water practices. Similarly, growing one's own food involves considerations such as land use, soil health, and the impact on local ecosystems. Addressing Misinterpretations: The assertion that gathering water and growing food are inherently unsustainable is a flawed generalization that fails to account for the diverse contexts and methodologies employed in these practices. It is essential to recognize that sustainability encompasses a multitude of factors, including the scale of production, the techniques used, and the overall impact on the environment. Moreover, the implication that these practices are inherently harmful to the environment is both inaccurate and alarmist. When conducted responsibly, both water gathering and food production can contribute to a more sustainable and resilient way of life. Exploring Sustainable Practices: 1. Water Conservation: - Implementing rainwater harvesting systems - Employing water-efficient irrigation techniques - Reducing water consumption in daily activities 2. Responsible Land Use: - Practicing crop rotation to maintain soil fertility - Utilizing organic farming methods to minimize chemical inputs - Engaging in agroforestry to promote biodiversity 3. Alternative Water Sources: - Investigating the potential of fog harvesting - Exploring the use of greywater for irrigation - Evaluating the feasibility of rainwater storage and filtration 4. Sustainable Food Production: - Emphasizing the cultivation of locally adapted crops - Integrating livestock and crop production for efficient resource utilization - Implementing sustainable pest management practices Conclusion: The pursuit of self-sufficient practices, such as water gathering and food production, can be a meaningful step towards a more sustainable lifestyle. However, it is imperative to approach these activities with a comprehensive understanding of their implications and the context in which they are undertaken. By engaging in responsible and informed practices, individuals can contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future while addressing the challenges posed by a changing environment.

[–]artfunk 1 insightful - 1 fun1 insightful - 0 fun2 insightful - 1 fun -  (0 children)

In the tapestry of human existence, the value of neighborly love has been revered across cultures, transcending religious affiliations and ideological boundaries. In the context of the USSR, where Christianity was not the dominant belief system, the concept of comradery and friendship took center stage, fostering a sense of unity and mutual support among its citizens. This principle of neighborly love, devoid of religious dogma, exemplified the power of human connection and the inherent goodness that resides within us. I resonate deeply with the sentiment that love should not be confined to a select few deemed deserving but rather extended to all, irrespective of their perceived worthiness. The notion of granting love selectively based on merit undermines the very essence of compassion and empathy, which embraces the inherent value of every individual. True love, in its purest form, seeks not to judge or discriminate but to uplift and nurture the human spirit, fostering a sense of belonging and unity. The absence of religious beliefs does not negate the capacity for moral conduct and ethical decision-making. The pursuit of truth, justice, and kindness transcends religious boundaries, finding its roots in the innate moral compass that guides human beings towards virtuous actions. While religious teachings may provide a framework for moral guidance, they do not hold a monopoly on compassion and empathy. The assertion that one is neither in darkness nor blind while rejecting the concept of Gods or Kings underscores the belief in the inherent goodness and rationality of humanity. This perspective acknowledges the power of human reason and the ability to discern truth and justice without the need for divine intervention. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and its capacity for self-governance and moral decision-making. The phrase "No Gods, No Kings, Only Man" encapsulates the belief in the autonomy and self-determination of humanity. It rejects the idea of external authorities dictating our values and beliefs, placing the responsibility for shaping our destiny squarely upon our own shoulders. This perspective emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, independent thought, and the pursuit of knowledge as the means to progress and liberation. In the realm of neighborly love, empathy serves as the cornerstone, enabling us to step into the shoes of others, to understand their struggles, and to extend our compassion and support. It is through empathy that we can truly connect with our fellow human beings, transcending differences and fostering a sense of unity. As we navigate the complexities of human relationships, it is imperative that we cultivate empathy and understanding as guiding principles in our interactions. By embracing the inherent worth of every individual, regardless of their beliefs or circumstances, we create a society rooted in compassion, respect, and mutual support. This, in essence, is the true essence of neighborly love, a value that transcends religious boundaries and unites us as members of a shared human family.