Pantagraph.com | News | Atheist's daughter fights moment-of-silence law

Note: All views and opinions expressed in reader comments are solely those of the individual submitting the comment, and not those of the Pantagraph or its staff.

concerned believer wrote on Nov 17, 2007 8:00 AM:

" \Listen i just have a few things to say, my school has the moment of silence 1 st hour and i believe it is the right thing to do. It is not making people pray, it is only giving the option you could use this time to think of the soliders fighting in Iraq, or of those who died in the line of battle. You do not have to pray. If they change this what is next, not being able to have moments of silences on 9\11 before ball games, or maybe they won't let us pray at all during school cause to say the truth I don't pray during moments of silence most of the time but I do before test, I am a Christian. People say it is ingecting religion into schools, so next are they going to tells us we can't pray in public or during sports events if this gets okayed by our government then the only question is how the government is going to trample on MY FREEDOM OF RELIGION next!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! "

To: i agree wrote on Nov 13, 2007 10:20 PM:

" Obviously quite a few people care about 15 seconds, or there would not be such turmoil around the act. It is this mentality that "all it is, is xxxxxx" that has allowed rights and freedoms to be slowly whittled away. The same reason you use to justify the act can be used to discredit it. After all, no one held a gun to child's head and told them they could not pray when the act was a voluntary one either. And since religions like Islam have multiple prayer times, only have 15 seconds for prayer shows favoritism to Christians and Jewish faiths. You should be thankful for the vigilant. If not for them, people like you would not have the right to have an opinion. "

i agree w/ i bet wrote on Nov 13, 2007 9:16 AM:

" thats for sure, this is all abou the money, and the rest of you on here just HAVE to have somthing to argue about!!! some ppl in this town just can't live their own lives! some of you are just too bored!! who the hell cares about 15 seconds??!! is someone putting a gun to you or your kids head saying pray now?? hell no!! so DON'T pray, study for that 15 seconds, or better yet, THINK! try THINKING w/out speaking!!! something ALL kids should learn todo, so they don't grow up to be adults who can't have a thought with out doing it OUT LOUD!! this bikering crap is for the birds ppl grow up!!! "

I'll bet wrote on Nov 13, 2007 8:50 AM:

" Sherman and his lawyer like that money with "in GOD we trust" printed on each and every piece and won't refuse that.. "

JD to: Hey JD wrote on Nov 12, 2007 7:36 PM:

" If you think that the wording is no big deal, why did the politicians need to change 'or' to 'and' in the act, and create a mandate? In your example, you would get both unless you specifically spoke up and said you did not wants one of them. That is what people are doing, speaking up to get the prayer back out of schools. Just like the original act gave choice of having it or not, the new act gives the choice to pray or not. How long before another word is changed to make it mandatory to pray? "

To: Get Real SJ wrote on Nov 12, 2007 5:39 PM:

" "But I know religion does drive alot of people to do good things too!." - Like bomb abortion clinics, beat homosexuals to death, molest children under the guise of being a 'man of god', and the list could go on and on. People do not need religion, religion needs people. People can live perfectly good lives without religion. It is religion that needs people to fill the pews, give up their money, and to recruit fresh blood into the seats. Religion is just people attempting to make themselves more then they are by trying to connect themselves with a divine being that gives them some meaning in their life they can not find on their own. "

Hey JD wrote on Nov 12, 2007 2:42 PM:

" If a restaraunt offers steak AND eggs do you HAVE to take both or do you think you could order steak OR eggs? Even though it SAYS "and" not "or". Spin it however you want. Having the word "prayer" in the title does NOT mandate prayer. "

Get Real SJ wrote on Nov 12, 2007 12:27 PM:

" If the wars werent "over religion" they would just be over something else... I agree that there are still "good people" who dont have religion. But I know religion does drive alot of people to do good things too!............ There has been a lot of wars over forming a government and leaving old goverments, maybe we should just do away with government all toether and we would have world piece? (incase you cant tell that was sarcasim).............. I firmly belive that these wars and stuff that people say are over religion, are crazy people who use religion as an excuse for doing something... so they dont seem like such a "bad guy"... (This is not true in ALL cases, but cant be denied) "

Go Ahead wrote on Nov 11, 2007 11:16 PM:

" and hate your neighbor, go ahead and cheat a friend, do it in the name of HEAVEN, you'll be justified in the end. "

SJ wrote on Nov 11, 2007 10:40 PM:

" Does everyone know how peaceful the world would be without religion. Most of the World WARS have been fought OVER RELIGION. Religion has been used for Centuries to keep people down and clueless. A perfect example the Middle East. Open your eyes and ears...see for yourself what is happening around you. You don't have to be religious to be a good person. "

To: Try reading wrote on Nov 11, 2007 8:49 PM:

" I have read the Bible through many times and have gotten the whole story. I suspect that you have not read the whole Bible through to get the big picture. To others: The Old Law of Moses was nailed to the cross when Jesus died. Read Colossians 2:14 but for better context read the whole book of Galatians to see that the old covenant was done away with. You all need to read the whole book or at least get some context to make sure you understand what is being said. It's a shame we can't study together. "

To:Sad day wrote on Nov 11, 2007 4:59 PM:

" If I followed the teachings of the Old testament I would be Jewish, as the stories and teachings of God in these books are from Jewish dogma (as it tells the history leading to Christ.) While I believe in the stories, I do have doubts as to their validity (i.e. creationism). While the teachings of Christ (again, hence CHRISTian) do not neccesarily contradict these teachings, they put them more in context. According to the Old Testament eating pork was a hell worthy sin, since Christ came and gave his meesage we have learned that it is not a hell worthy sin (nor is homosexuality, pre-martal sex, or self "pleasure" as some fundamentalist will have you believe.) Instead Christ's message relays the importance of forgiveness and understanding where the Old Testament God is more vengeful. I do believe some of the stories in the Old Testament can be explained by natural events, some cannot. So I hope this helps you to understand my point a little better, if not I apologize and could you restate your question. Thanks. "

In God We Trust wrote on Nov 11, 2007 2:58 PM:

" Dont like prayer,Dont Pray. If your to stingy to give up 15 seconds,perhaps private school is for you...... I for one will pray any place I please,Its AMERICA,Just try and stop me(us). Perhaps christians and jews should sue this girl,she is commiting a hate crime. No mention of foot baths for muslims,I think this girl is a hater.............. "

To: Rebel wrote on Nov 11, 2007 11:28 AM:

" People have different priorities, not all are going to match yours. To many, religious incursion is as important as all you list. For many of the problems you list, religion is even the cause. It is all a matter of perspective, which is something most people of religion do not understand. These people feel that their line of thinking is the only right line of thinking. Just like you attempt to condemn the act because it is not on your priority list, people of religion want to condemn people who do not have religious priorities. If people of religion respected others, things like this act would not be an issue in the first place. "

To: sigh wrote on Nov 11, 2007 11:01 AM:

" You are 'student' teaching. I am really teaching and I disagree with you. "

Rebel needs a better cause wrote on Nov 11, 2007 1:26 AM:

" How sad that Mr. Sherman has chosen to spend so much time and energy trying to change policies that pale in comparison to more critical social issues (war, world hunger/homelessness, AIDS, genocide, natural disasters, global warming, universal political corruption, pollution, violence, child abuse. (the list goes on and on). Mr. Sherman: You seem to enjoy the role of rebellious social activist. I respectfully suggest YOU take a 15 second moment of silence to consider applying your efforts to a more substantial cause. C'mon, man, In the whole scheme of things, is a 15 second moment of silence (for whatever reason) really such a big deal? Wouldn't it be easier to put on a pair of slippers than lobby our politicians to carpet the whole world? Is it so hard to live and let live? You seem like a qualified contender to lobby for social change. Is preventing a few seconds of silence in public schools the best you can do? "

nchs junior wrote on Nov 10, 2007 2:23 PM:

" I do not know people are getting so worked up over a few seconds of silence. It is no different from saying the Pledge of Allegiance every monday. 15 seconds does not hurt anyone, nor does it affect people who do not have a relgion. As I have said before, I am athiest. I do not need people praying for me, because I do not belive in hell either, so don't say that i am going there. I have no problem with this moment o f"silence" and I do not think anyone else should either. As a highschool student, I have learned a few things in my 2.5 years so far. One of which is to have understanding for those who are different from you, and to tolerate those who may not have the same values as you. NCHS has a zer0-tolerance for people who cannot follow those two simple prinicples. So, NO, I do NOT need you to pray for me, and if you want to pray, use those 15 seconds and do with them what you want. It is your choice, not the state's. "

??? wrote on Nov 10, 2007 1:16 AM:

" It is fairly evident if there is a god; he or she is pompous omniscient lunatic. This supreme dictator needs to be a all present being, who can do no bad. However, good can not exist without this raving madwo/man. It seems we think to be good means you need religion. Well, I have an innate quality designed by evolution that requires me to try an advance humans. It is engrained in my genetic code to try to advance others because this advances myself. What could make a good person a bad person; simply put, religion. We need look no further than the arrogant zealot who can only do good because it serves for salvation. However, they can not imagine doing good without being told so. This is a hypocrites stance to the highest level. We do good because we know so; religion has only high jacked this most natural feeling. It has morphed naturally wanting to be good, with needing to be good to be saved. Man has always exploited those who will not think for themselves, and will continue to do so, as long as religion exist. "

JD to: I agree with wrote on Nov 9, 2007 11:28 PM:

" It is the name that is going to get this act struck down. The name mandates time for reflection and prayer, not reflection or prayer. Just like changing may to must made this act a mandate, the use of and instead of or will get this thrown out because, legally, it mandates students to pray. Yes, I know it is a small thing many will find insignificant, but the courts (and lawyers) will see it as reason enough to find it unconstitutional. "

Sad Day to: to Sad Day wrote on Nov 9, 2007 7:12 PM:

" So are you saying that the Old Testament is not the word of God? Now I am really confused. Or does Christ somehow over rule God? It seems strange that so much value can be put into one book that is the 'word of God' and so little in another 'word of God'. It seems as though you are saying that Christ is somehow more important than God, since you only listen to Christ's teachings. "

I agree with "what" wrote on Nov 9, 2007 7:04 PM:

" No where does it specify that the moment of silence refers to prayer in school. Use it to reflect on anything you want, don't reflect on anything, just respect the quiet. It actually may be the only silence someone has througout their entire day. "

TO: Sad Day wrote on Nov 9, 2007 5:20 PM:

" The word of God in the Old testament is not in sync with the New testament. The Old testament states "An eye for an eye." Yet Christ taught us turn the other cheek (there are many such contradictions). If you've ever read the Old Testament you would know this info. And no, I or any other Christians cannot answer your other questions. To do so would be me speaking FOR God. While I will speak in his favor, I WILL NOT presume to know what he is thinking. To do so would be blasphemous. and before you respond to that, I KNOW a lot of Christians do exactly that nowadays and I don't agree with them (i.e. gay bashers). Christians are named that because we follow JESUS CHRIST's message, which is only found in the New Testament. Like I said before the Old Testament has a lot of history in it, but no messages from CHRIST (hence CHRISTian). If we followed only the Old Testament we would be Jewish. "

Sad Day to: To Sad Day wrote on Nov 9, 2007 4:48 PM:

" So the word of God in the old testament is not valid? I would think that regardless of the testament it is in, the word of God is the word of God. What about the rest of my questions? People talk about the Bible being the truth, and without contradiction. I would think the questions would be easy to answer for any Christian. "

Ignorance is Deceptive wrote on Nov 9, 2007 1:47 PM:

" Check out the students who were silenced at the courthouse. Its actually kind of lame "

to Funny wrote on Nov 9, 2007 11:42 AM:

" I have an agnostic in my immediate family. He probably has higher ethics than most Christians I know. To everyone else: I do not understand why a moment of silence in the classrooms is such a big deal. People can use the 10 seconds of silence to think about whether they are really prepared for the quiz in history that day, what they are going to do after school, or use it to send a quick prayer to whomever they wish, including Buddha or Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer if they so choose. Why make a big deal out of this, people? It doesn't have to be about religion or a specific type of religion unless you make it so. I find it interesting that so many violent acts are done based on differing religious beliefs. "

Funny wrote on Nov 9, 2007 10:36 AM:

" I think it is really funny to people like "doc" and "bad day" whom know NOTHING about religion trying to pick things out of the bible and tell us what we are doing wrong... Have you noticed there has never been an atheist president of the united states? Why do you think that is? I will tell you why.... because the general public believes that people who believe in heaven will be driven to do good things, (because they want to get into heaven) where as atheists have have absolutly no reason to do "good things" because it doesnt matter anyways... (I AM NOT saying that all atheiests are bad, im just making an example I know a few that are nice people) "

TO: Sad Day wrote on Nov 9, 2007 10:17 AM:

" The part of the bible which speaks about not eating pork is in the Old Testament. The Old testament is used, basically, by Christians as a record of time, with our beliefs and teachings coming from the New Testament. The Old Testament is purely Judaism, and you don't see many Jewish people eating pork now do you? "

doc wrote on Nov 8, 2007 10:50 PM:

" Silence is not required for prayer. A bowed head, closed eyes and folded hands are not required either. In fact, one could be engaged in conversation with another and pray at the same time. However, if one wants to been SEEN praying then some outward sign is required. This act seems to be about forcing involuntary participation. in someone else's religious practice. "

Sad Day wrote on Nov 8, 2007 8:53 PM:

" People say that the bible is not contradictory, but I have a question. Why would an all powerful god want or need my worship? It is vanity that causes it? Why would an all power god create near perfect angels, and follow it up with such an inferior being as man? What is the point of creating a being that you know what that being is going to do from birth to death (remember, god is all knowing), and then say you give man free will when if god already knows what is going to happen, then it is pre-ordained. According to the bible, it is a sin to eat pork, but I see Christians eating it all the time. Are they sinning or is there some special exemption they get? "

try reading wrote on Nov 8, 2007 3:15 PM:

" "To JD" wrote: "The Bible is intelligently written by 40 different men over hundreds of years yet does not contradict itself and actually has a plan of salvation in it. " Well, from that comment it is obvious you've never even truly read the bible. The number one thing that turn christians into athiests is actually reading, and learning the real history of, their "good" book. "

To everyone: wrote on Nov 8, 2007 2:34 PM:

" This is ridiculous. Everyone always has something to say. If someone looks wrong, somebody says something. If someone says something, somebody says it is wrong. Can we do anything that will make ANYBODY happy? Stop being selfish people. Do what you believe in and stop picking on others. Please GROW UP! "

try reading wrote on Nov 8, 2007 2:18 PM:

Curious wrote on Nov 8, 2007 2:07 PM:

" My point is that if someone of another religion wanted to pray at a school I'm farely sure that no one would tell them that they couldn't. I have actually heard several stories in the paper of people of other religions being allowed time to pray or allowed special exceptions due to their beliefs. I see no problem with that at all. To each his own. What I do see a problem with is telling everyone else they can say or do whatever their religious beliefs direct yet telling me that I cannot practice mine. Just so you know there is no verbage in that bill that actually allocates that time for prayer. It is a moment of silence for whatever you want. It can be for nothing if that is your prerogative. "

?? TO "To: Curious" wrote on Nov 8, 2007 12:34 PM:

" Are you suggesting that a moment of silence is an "inconvenience" to others?? Whoever wrote that last comment is rediculous, he also implyed only the rich should be catholics? Some people cant afford to send their kids to private schools, and some of them cant afford to home school them (as they have to work). I think YOU are an inconvenience to me, can we somehow remove you? NO, I will probably just have to live with it, as you should! "

T : Curious wrote on Nov 8, 2007 12:21 PM:

" I am the one whos post you are referring to. Like I said, noone is preventing you from practicing your beleifs - AT HOME. But it has no place in PUBLIC school. Man you people are dense. If praying in front of a room full of people is that important to you, I suggest you go to a private school. "

To: Curious wrote on Nov 8, 2007 11:58 AM:

" Church and home is the place to practice personal Christian beliefs. In regards to this being the way school used to start, there was a reason it was removed, including the pledge. It subject people to Christian belief without their consent. The reason it did not turn into a hour long service was not because Christians did not try, it was because non-Christians prevented it. I do not know why Christian parents who fear so much for their child's religion do not home school or send their kids to a religious school. Is it because they only want it as long as it does not inconvenience them, regardless of it is inconveniences others? "

Curious wrote on Nov 8, 2007 11:43 AM:

" I would just like to comment on the comment that if 15 seconds is given at the beginning of a school day to allow students who want to pray the opportunity to do so that it will somehow result in hour long services before the start of the school day. If you recall not that long ago every day of school started this way along with the Pledge of Alligance. I don't recall that ever turning into an hour of prayer. I also recall students who did not want to participate, even in the reciting of the Pledge, ever being told that they had to. We always hear about how Christians are not respecting the rights of people who aren't Christians. What about the rights of Christians to practice their beliefs? "

sigh wrote on Nov 8, 2007 8:23 AM:

" I am student teaching at a local high school and this is a perfect example of making an issue out of a non issue. The required moment is short and non interruptive. It does not take away from any potential "teaching time," seeing as it only lasts nine seconds. Oh, im also not religious. People need to prioritize and spend their energy fighting something that truly damages our educational system, like NCLB. "

agenda wrote on Nov 7, 2007 1:38 PM:

" the role of the education system is to teach, not not teach! "

Sunrise wrote on Nov 7, 2007 11:02 AM:

" Is it really Dawn that has a problem with this new law or just her father? For that matter, does it really make a difference, since we're all taxpayers. At least, we still have representation with taxation. If we don't like the laws, then we need to vote differently, that is if we have voting rights. "

TO: JD from GOM wrote on Nov 7, 2007 10:59 AM:

" I know "In God we trust" and "one nation, UNDER GOD," did not come around till the 50's. And agree with you on your arguement for "the year of our Lord." I am a christian, my personal choice, much like smoking :-) But I believe everyone should have a right to worship their God. Muslims, Christians, Buddhists alike. Even the Atheist, Agnostic crowd should have a right to think the thoughts of their God, Natural Law. I feel this moment would not have even been a big deal if they had not BANNED prayer in school. No one has ever forced anyone to pray. Simply asked that they allow them to. This is equally comparable to the smoking ban. If the football coach wants to say a prayer with the team before a game, so be it. Anyone who doesn't want to participate can leave. Much like the non-smokers who complained about being "forced" to partake in an activity which they didn't believe. No one has forced anyone to do anything, and yet we get bans. Even with this new law no one is being forced to prayer, just shut their mouths for a few minutes. "

The Shadow wrote on Nov 7, 2007 10:53 AM:

" No kids arnt being forced to pray, but why is it kids even need to be given time to pray if they elect to? Do you need silence to pray? I do not recognise the need for any such accomodation. They are there to LEARN. Ok, how long are they giving the kids? 15 seconds? So, 15 seconds must be enough time to pray. So why is it, then, that people who want to pray, or people who want to stand in silence for 15 seconds, CANT TO IT AT HOME?!?!?! Either way it is a stupid waste of time and causes to much controversy to justify keeping it. You Christians that are defending this are self serving liars. It starts with this, then in 10 years it will have snowballed into 1 hour of church service at the beggining of school where all students will have to attend, but oh they wont have to LISTEN if they dont want to!! That will be the argument of the fundies, I can hear it now. "

the law actually says wrote on Nov 7, 2007 8:20 AM:

" This is a line for the law that is posted in another thread "...This period shall not be conducted as a religious exercise but shall be an opportunity for silent prayer or for silent reflection on the anticipated activities of the day..." "

To: JD wrote on Nov 7, 2007 8:08 AM:

" Even with Prayer in the title, it is not the "Silent Reflection and Student Must Pray Act" I still dont understand your point... This by no means forces kids to pray... I will admit I can see your point of view, but I do not think your point of view is strong enough to have this kicked out on the basis of "forcing religion" it doesnt even specify a specific religion, And in the eyes of most people Athiesm is even considered a religion, if you want to pray to science or to Darwin, so be it, its ok with me. I can only see that taking it away would hurt those who want it alot more then adding it would hurt those whom dont. T hose whom dont can just sit there for 15 seconds... You have to admit this guy and his daughter are doing it for publicity, he wants more people listening to his stupid show to which I would boycott. "

The Shadow wrote on Nov 7, 2007 6:49 AM:

" The word "prayer" is right there in the name of the law. Seems pretty obvious this is government mandated prayer time. Not sure how our concerns could be any plainer. Talk to Jebus at home, or in your brainwashing facilities...er churches. "

Derek wrote on Nov 6, 2007 10:54 PM:

" in response to this piece of work "If you want your child to think like a hillbilly; then by all means, put s/he is a Parish school. If you want a proper education i would suggest a magnet school. The nice thing about a magnet school is that they leave out ancient thought processes that hold back all mankind. I also get the feeling you must believe in something to consider you would go throught the exspense of brainwashing your child, just for a Catholic based education. " By magnet school, you must mean our wonderful public schools that today are busy cramming liberal ideas down the throats of our children, while any conservative thoughts are laughed at. That is far from a proper education. If being a conservative makes me a hillbilly, then call me Jed Clampett. "

Spooky wrote on Nov 6, 2007 9:36 PM:

" man...find something worthwhile people. This debate is an absolute waste of time "

JD wrote on Nov 6, 2007 5:46 PM:

" I am not trying to destroy anyones freedom of religion. I am trying to destroy the mentality that their freedom of religion bestows upon them some right to force it into all aspects of peoples life who do not care for their religion. This article is about the reflection and PRAYER act. You seem to be trying to belittle that the act has a religious connotation worded directly into it. I am not trying to 'read' religion into it. They were kind enough to expose it directly in the name of the act so that even the blind can see. Well, those not blinded by religion at least. "

re:Lisa wrote on Nov 6, 2007 12:33 PM:

" If you want your child to think like a hillbilly; then by all means, put s/he is a Parish school. If you want a proper education i would suggest a magnet school. The nice thing about a magnet school is that they leave out ancient thought processes that hold back all mankind. I also get the feeling you must believe in something to consider you would go throught the exspense of brainwashing your child, just for a Catholic based education. "

To: JD wrote on Nov 6, 2007 12:09 PM:

" Did you forget what this entire article was about, a "moment of silence", You are against it because you have some radical idea that a "moment of silence" is FORCING you to pray. You can do whatever you want in that moment, perhaps people who DO want to pray, cant the rest of teh day because hopefully the public schools keep them busy... So by your rediculous rants about removing it you are not allowing them their "freedom of religion". As far as comparing me to a terrorist, I belive you trying to destroy our freedom of religion is comparativly worse then me likeing that fact that kids have a moment of silence (TO DO WHATEVER THEY WANT IN THAT MOMENT) "

JD: To JD wrote on Nov 6, 2007 10:55 AM:

" Do you even ATTEMPT to educate yourself before opening your mouth? The reference to god on money and the pledge came WAY after the founding of this country. It was put their by Christian politicians, not the forefather. And as far as I know, no forefather has put the 10 Commandments in any courthouse either. You are confusing religious zealots attempting to further your religion WAY after the founding of this country with the forefathers. Just what does YOUR right to religion have to do with forcing religion into aspects of MY life? Want to know what separates your mentality from that of a terrorist? Geographical location. "

To: JD wrote on Nov 6, 2007 10:19 AM:

" You argument is ridiculous, yes I do think that they intended some sort of Christian country, hence it written on our money, in our pledge of allegiance, the ten commandments posted in many courthouses... I just think that the forefathers were to oblivious to crazy atheists, I doubt as many existed when they wrote the constitution. So would you argue that we should all be allowed to carry sub machine guns and keep nuclear weapons in our garage because the constitution says I can? They didn’t write it in there because the topic didn’t exist. And the constitution implies "Freedom of religion" not "freedom from religion", if you don’t want to fine! But stop trying to strip the right from those who do! "

Brenstalka wrote on Nov 6, 2007 9:49 AM:

" I'll say an extra prayer tonight so Jesus will punish her. She should believe in God so she could go to Hell for her actions. That would teach her to not believe. "

JD wrote on Nov 6, 2007 9:44 AM:

" The reason "year of our Lord' was used during that time period was a reflection of just how much religion had permeated all levels of society. Up until recently, we used AD and BC to refer to time periods, Anno Domino (after our lord) and BC (before Christ). Are you telling me that because people used these time references, they were Christians? I can understand why you do not "wish to argue" about the topic, as you are grasping at straws. Our forefather has alot of foresight. If they had wanted a Christian country, do you not think they would have written the Constitution stating it? Or was that just an oversight? "

Again the Mad Ranter wrote on Nov 6, 2007 8:59 AM:

" I apologize if I alluded to "in god we trust" was in our constitution, you are correct it is not. I was offering another example of how, in the us, we have many references to god. Back to your post. Why did they not just say A.C. then? I am not going to try and argue WHY its there, and I understand that its not specifically in there for a religious fact. However, our founding fathers lived by morals set forth by god. They would have had to believe in "our lord" in order to put it in our constitution. They did not say, "in the year of our Tinfoil hat wearing monkey". To say that they believe in god, yet that believe\influence has no barring on their decisions is just silly. "

To: IbeliveJESUSisREAL wrote on Nov 6, 2007 8:15 AM:

" It's funny, the original apostles thought they were at the end times also. Here we are 2000 years later. I dont think Jesus has the ability to return or he would have done so by now. "

Lisa wrote on Nov 6, 2007 7:01 AM:

" I do not follow organized religion at all. I do not agree with having a moment of silence in a public school, which is supposed to be a melting pot of children of all beliefs, faiths, ethnicities, etc. I also do not agree that Catholic school children are 'backwards' as someone commented. While I do not agree with religion in public schools, I am often tempted to place my son in a Catholic school for the improved education. I've no argument with proper values, just with ignorance and an inability to allow all people to be who they are, regardless of a majority's personal opinion on what they 'should' be. "

give peace a chance wrote on Nov 6, 2007 6:34 AM:

" I think that this moment of silence should be good for everyone's rights. Let the ones who want to pray, pray. and the others to just think, or do nothing. whatever they want to do. What makes one persons rights more important than others? The athiest says they are having their rights, but what about everyone elses rights? Just let it go. This world is messed up enough as it is. I myself will pray whenever I want to. we shouldn't have to wait for any specific moment. God has blessed my life and I am grateful for every day I am on this wonderful planet. I would rather believe in God and Jesus and die and find out there is nothing, then to not believe and die and find out there is God and Jesus! what about you? "

JD to GOM wrote on Nov 5, 2007 6:35 PM:

" Firstly, no where in the Constitution does it say 'In god we trust'. That slogan was not adopted until the the mid 1900s to combat Communism. The phrase "Year of our lord" was a common phrase for referring to B.C.E or C.E. during that time phrase, and can not be used to specifically imply the religion of the person saying it, as it was a measurement of time periods. It is the spreading of all this misinformation that has people believing so many inaccuracies about the Constitution. People of religion will grasp at any straw, no matter how thin, to try and gain a foot hold to force their religion on everyone. "

To: Science from GOM wrote on Nov 5, 2007 4:15 PM:

" Okay, I take your point. I do still disagree with science being a belief. I am like you in the fact I am a christian, but I too use science as an explanation. My statement about science being a belief is not posed at any "religious minded" person, as you stated they can refer to science as a cause, but instead at Atheist who claim God does not exist, then point at science as the creator of the universe. This belief would then be placing science in God's place, thereby making their God science (or natural law whichever you prefer to call it) "

??? wrote on Nov 5, 2007 3:19 PM:

" re:Sox 05 ...Sorry to insult you and your backwards philosophy on life. I guess if I am a bigot for not believing in God, and thinking Parish schools are just big cults...well a bigot I am. "

To: to: i believe jesus is real wrote on Nov 5, 2007 2:38 PM:

" I agree completely and trust me I won't be praying for you anytime soon. "

Science wrote on Nov 5, 2007 2:15 PM:

" I can't explain why atheists make the statements they do because I'm not one. Ask an atheist. However, when asked how humans originated, I will certainly offer a scientific explanation - and perhaps an atheist would, too. As a scientist, I know that my explanation is limited to natural causes. It could therefore be wrong. A person using a religious explanation, such as Genesis, would be convinced that the religious explanation cannot be wrong. That's the difference - and it's why science cannot be a "belief". "

Sox 05 wrote on Nov 5, 2007 1:53 PM:

" To ?????. You must have attended a public school to make those wrong assumptions. My daughter struggled her junior year in private school trying to catch up to her classmates after two years in the public high school system. So keep your political correctness and my children will claim the high paying positions with their better education. She is now a U of I senior. By the way ???, did you read your line about "backward like a catholic kid"? You are nothing more than a bigot. So get off your high horse you bigot. "

TO: Science from GOM wrote on Nov 5, 2007 11:04 AM:

" If science is not a belief, but an approach, as you claim, then why when asked to explain things that happen the atheist gives natural law (a.k.a. science) as their reasons for occurences? While the Christian credits God, The Muslim credits Allah, etc... They are using science as a substitute for that which religious people credit God. Therefore if science is their explanation as to "Why the world goes 'round" and God is the religious persons explanation, how is it that the two cannot be construed as the same? If A+b=C then C-A=B. It amounts to the same thing, bvut under a different name. Yet the Atheist's denounce the use of the word God or Religion, yet it equals the same as that which they believe. "

Again the Mad Ranter to JD wrote on Nov 5, 2007 10:48 AM:

" You better believe that our founding fathers had the Jesus in mind. "Done in Convention by the Unanimous Consent of the States present the Seventeenth Day of September in the Year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and Eighty seven and of the Independence of the United States of America the Twelfth. In Witness whereof We have hereunto subscribed our Names" However, everything above those signatures allows us to have the freedom to believe in whichever god we want. "In god we trust" is another one you can look up. "

Science wrote on Nov 5, 2007 10:37 AM:

" If atheists use "science" as a religion, they don't know what science is. Many, perhaps most, practicing scientists believe in God. If atheism = science, how can we explain that fact? Science is not a "belief" but an approach - an approach that is limited by its very nature. It can only look for natural causation. The discussion on this page has convinced me to switch my position from one of indifference to the "moment of silence", to one of opposition. "

TO: "to: i believe jesus is real" wrote on Nov 5, 2007 10:22 AM:

" I am going to pray for you. There are other people with tempers like yours, most of them however are in jail. "

JD to: longgg wrote on Nov 5, 2007 10:22 AM:

" That is due to the intentional vagueness of the time of a 'moment'. Religious school administrators will maximize this 'moment' to give the students as much time as possible to be influenced by the suggestion of religion. The major religion of this country will stop at nothing to inundate people as much as possible with their chosen religion in hopes of converting the person. Personally, I have alway found it strange that the 'true' religion needs to try so hard to convert people, and how that religion has always needed to hard sell their religion on the uneducated. "

TO JD: From Gov't opressed Mule wrote on Nov 5, 2007 10:11 AM:

" While I agree with you on most topics and highly regard your opinion, I do have to disagree with your belief that atheism is not a religion. The definition of religion, according to werbster, is: "a personal set or institutionalized system of religious attitudes, beliefs, and practices" The Atheist, while not attending a worship service, bases their belief of thge universe in science. Their personal religious attitude is that God (Jehova by the christian name) does not exist and that science is the "ultimate reality." That religious attitude defines religion. Their "ultimate reality" defines God. So while they may not believe that Jehova, Allah, or Buddha doesn't "control" the universe, their simple belief that science does thereby makes them religious, but they ADAMANTLY deny this by arguing that saying the word "God" is unconstitutional and religions (ignoring there own) is evil. "

longggg wrote on Nov 5, 2007 9:14 AM:

" Im really not for either side here, since im now a college student and dont have to participate in the moment of silence, but the only thing i DO have to say, is even though some people are quoting "big deal...its only a minute to sit and think/pray/remember," you have to add in the fact that some schools do longer then a minute. It is stated that some school's go as far as 15-20 minutes each morning. Something like that COULD be a big deal for kids who are in a higher education class that need to obtain more out of a class each day. But like i said...im really not either sided. "

to: i believe jesus is real wrote on Nov 5, 2007 8:07 AM:

" listen real well, i'm not gonna stutter: I DON'T WANT YOU PRAYING FOR ME. i want you to stay as far away from the very thought of me as humanly possible. i never asked you to pray for me. i would never ask you to pray for me. the fact that you think you need to and demand that you will do so is no different in my book than a sexual assault, or a home invasion. if i were to catch you praying for me, i would treat you no different than a person caught burglarizing my house, or attempting to steal my car, for you would be no different. you are the true devil. "

Stinko wrote on Nov 5, 2007 6:23 AM:

" Fifteen seconds? Get over it. "

Jewish Kid wrote on Nov 5, 2007 12:33 AM:

" My dad remembers that when he was a kid in public school in Florida (1940s, 1950s) he and the other Jewish kids were physically struck by the teacher if they didn't sing about how Jesus loved them. Keep this religious stuff out of public schools. "

nchsjunior wrote on Nov 4, 2007 11:08 PM:

" To the other nchs jurnior, you are right it isnt a big deal. I have no clue why i was making it out to be a criminal offence. The 15 seconds are just more time to do homework you forgot to do teh night before. That is pretty much it. It allows those who are relgious to pray, and those who aren't to have more time to wake up before learning begins. And you are right, most people at our school couldn't give to craps about the moment of silence, and frankly neither do I. And yes most of us at NCHS take pride in our academics and most of us are smarter than you guys out there think. Sorry for seeming like a complete moron, everyone has their moments. :) "

JD: Truth is reality wrote on Nov 4, 2007 8:00 PM:

" You fail to differentiate between a belief and a religion. There is a huge difference between having a personal belief, and creating an organization around that belief. The bible, like many books, teaching some valuable life lessons, and can invoke a belief in those morals. It is the religion that is built around the bible that attempts to destroy anything 'not itself'. An individual with a belief can not impact the world in an serious way. A religion misusing that belief can, and often has, destroyed everything it came into contact with, including itself. As far as I know, atheism is not a religion. "

Truth is Reality wrote on Nov 4, 2007 2:18 PM:

" Truth: All laws say, 1. You MUST do something; or 2. You MUST NOT do something. Reality: Every law is based on some value - it is beneficial that something is or is not done. Consequence: Values that change are no different than emotions. A society continually trying to redefine its values will apologize tomorrow for that which it dogmatizes today. Truth: A religious belief is a view regarding a higher being. Reality: The view of Atheism/Humanism/Secularism is that a higher being is nonexistent or inconsequential. This is a religious belief. Consequence: The Atheist/Humanist/Secularist who espouses freedom from religion must - to be consistent - endorse freedom from his/her religious view as well. "

Word Substitution wrote on Nov 4, 2007 12:52 PM:

" Quote: "What we object to is Christians passing a law that requires the public school teacher to stop teaching during instructional time, paid for by the taxpayers, so that Christians can pray.'' Substitution: What we object to is people passing a law that requires the public school teacher to stop teaching the majority of kids during instructional time, paid for by the taxpayers, so that slow people can play catch up. "

IbeliveJESUSisREAL wrote on Nov 4, 2007 6:38 AM:

" We should pray for the atheist and all unbelievers. It won't be long and Jesus Christ will be splitting the eastern skies I KNOW I wanna be ready when the trumpet sounds. YOu can laugh and you can make fun....but if you don't make heaven you'd better run. Remember these words should you be left behind. Jesus is REAL and you've run out of time. "

Keep wrote on Nov 3, 2007 11:47 PM:

" Church out of the schools. Prayer has no place in school. If you want to pray, go to church. I don't ask for you to teach algebra in church. "

JD: To Duh wrote on Nov 3, 2007 10:07 PM:

" Actually, our country was founded by people fleeing a Christian government which attempted to destroy anything not itself. Kind of like what the Christians in the USA are trying to achieve today. Government and religion do not mix. History, any time they have, it has lead to violence, death, corruption, and war as the now religious government attempts to purge itself, and everything else, of anything it deems 'not itself'. Our country was not founded on Christian beliefs, unless you count the belief that religion and government should never be in the same bed together. You really should learn history before you make decision based on it. "

Science wrote on Nov 3, 2007 7:13 PM:

" To Duh - using capital letters doesn't prove your point. Referring to the actual founding documents might - I'd recommend the Constitution; particularly the first amendment. And while you're at it, refer to the writings of Thomas Jefferson, among others - all of whom advocated freedom of religion and even freedom from religion (which is why the Constitution expressly forbids any religious test to run for public office). We are, in fact, a secular nation, not a CHRISTIAN nation. "

Duh wrote on Nov 3, 2007 1:22 PM:

" Our country (and this IS the USA!!!) was founded on CHRISTIAN beliefs....period!!! I think it's high time to not only alllow prayer in school, but encourage it. What a sad, sad world we are beccoming. "

um....it's not that serious wrote on Nov 3, 2007 12:16 PM:

" ok first of all i'm a junior at NCHS and not all of us are dumb.........ok yeah the announcements are long and the moment of silence thing is annoying but it isn't hurting anybody and it doesn't say you have to pray. So to the atheist girl who is soo upset over 15 seconds....... get a life. OH one more thing the majority of people at my school could care less about the 15 secs of silence ...so people need to get over themselves and stop wasting time and money for stupid cases like this...there are more important things we could use that money and time for hmmm like finding a cure for aids..idk "

To: nchsjunior wrote on Nov 3, 2007 9:50 AM:

" Oh...my...God. Am I ever glad MY kids don't go to NCHS if your post is any indication of the education there. I don't think I've ever seen so many misspellings and grammatical errors in my life. And to the re:nchs responder, I'm not sure where you get the idea that Christians are the only ones who make grammatical errors (that doesn't even make sense!), but I suggest that you stop being so close-minded and putting the blame on others that you are not intelligent enough to understand. "Go back to having sex with only your wife"? Please. Sadly, I think this really *is* a high school junior, and I don't believe you're much older truthfully. Only a young twerp would bring sex into it for no reason at all. Grow up already. "

re:nchsjunior wrote on Nov 3, 2007 12:42 AM:

" Me thinks you might be an uneducated Christian pretending to be an atheist. It is well known only Christians have grammar that bad. Any attempt from the zealots to trick educated critical thinkers is nonsense. Go back to reading your bible, and only having sex with your wife. "

Atheist Nay wrote on Nov 2, 2007 11:33 PM:

" Oh man, my husband read that "Judgment day/Megatron" comment out loud to me and just about had me rolling out of the seat. I was laughing so hard. I'm against the mandated moment of silence. There is plenty of time throughout a school day for a child to pray to themself or sit and ponder their thoughts. Wait a couple of years, and the Pantagraph will run an article about how teachers should start off the silence with a generic prayer. Then a few years later, students will be chosen to lead the prayer. Here we go, chipping away at the Separation between Church and State. "

nchsjunior wrote on Nov 2, 2007 8:29 PM:

" i am a athiest, and that means no i dont belive in god, or realigion, or hell, or heavan, or satan, or any of that sorts. and to what? u are right, its a few moments of reflection, and its only a few seconds long yeah its kinda stupid and pointless, BUT WHOCARES?!!! at NCHS we havelike 10 minute announcements practically every day we dont ne mroe tiem adde on to that it makes first hour shorter and the teachers get annoyed. if u want to pRAY PRAY AT HOME! but then again i dont mean to contradtict myself but teh supporting side may jsut say that its not meant to be of religious origin, if ppl want to pray let them. and i can somewhat agree with that, but no one has complained the years before this law was passed, so what idfference does it make??? "

to Think about this.......... wrote on Nov 2, 2007 6:41 PM:

" I feel that way about birth control. "

To To those who don't believe in Judgement Day : wrote on Nov 2, 2007 3:14 PM:

" You're wrong man! It's Megatron that we have to worry about, he is in search of the All Spark which was shipped her many, many years ago. My great, great, great, great uncle was on that expedition that founded Megatron. He wants to use the All Spark to destroy the world. Optimus, where are you?!?!? "

Think about this.......... wrote on Nov 2, 2007 2:58 PM:

" I rather have it and I may not need it. Then need it and not have it. "

To: re:Re: To: to: Taliban wrote on Nov 2, 2007 2:29 PM:

" We'll see who's "stupid" in the end, won't we? :-) "

To J: wrote on Nov 2, 2007 2:26 PM:

" I think that's part of the whole problem here. The majority of these writers don't know what "respect" means because they've never been taught it. "

To those who don't believe in Judgement Day wrote on Nov 2, 2007 1:46 PM:

" You fools. We'll see if you change your tune when Cyberdyne Systems model 101 has you in his sights and is hunting you down while dual wielding M-60 machine guns. And just when you think you're safe from the fire, hiding behind what you thought was a post office mailbox, the mailbox reveals it's true nature, that of the T-1000 advanced prototype, then, only then, will you realize that Judgement Day is real, and you should have listened to crazy Linda Hamilton. "

J wrote on Nov 2, 2007 11:37 AM:

" I think that the whole idea of a "moment of silence" is an issue of respect; not religion. "

re:Re: To: to: Taliban wrote on Nov 2, 2007 11:21 AM:

" Science is not from god; simply because science refutes all the wacky theories in the bible. The earth is old, there never was a great flood, no one built a ship that held two every organism...just how stupid does one have to be, to believe in that...lol "

Re: To: to: Taliban wrote on Nov 2, 2007 9:40 AM:

" First off Kudos on the proper spelling in your post. Now look up in Webster's dictionary the first definition of God is : "the supreme or ultimate reality." Don't Atheist's believe that science is the "Ultimate reality"? Therefore BY DEFINITION SCIENCE IS YOUR GOD. Like I said previously, why are you scared of a word? We Christians don't deny science, but instead believe science is a gift FROM GOD, not that science is what rules the universe. "

Microwave Society wrote on Nov 2, 2007 7:50 AM:

" Why is so hard to except 15 sec.. no wonder the private schools do so well "

To: MORE BS wrote on Nov 2, 2007 2:54 AM:

" A moment, even a silent moment, forced upon a free person does hurt. I takes away his or her freedom. Would you accept a screaming moment for those of us who think the world is too much to handle without screaming? Screaming in acknowledgment of the plight of mankind is a religious tenant for me. Somehow, I manage without forcing it upon you. Can't you have the same decency? "

RE: "To non-believers wrote on Nov 1, 2007 7:57 PM:" wrote on Nov 2, 2007 12:35 AM:

" You seem to miss the whole point of belief or non-belief. It's not a contest to see whose ideas turn out to be true in the end... What one believes is true FOR THEM, now and always. You believe? Cool. Lead the life of a believer. And eat it up! But if you don't believe? Then THAT is just as true for you. I know non-believers who at first glance fool a lot of folks because they lead lives that are clean, giving and purpose-driven. Many in fact are shocked to learn atheists and agnostics are just as capable at "clean-living" as believers aspire to be. One arrogance some believers have that they just "don't get" is, they often perceive that non-believers hang-out every night dancing around altars to the devil and chanting satanic verse. They don't seem to compehend that those whose beliefs do not encompass a master creator, also tend to not encompass a devil. "

to To non-believers wrote on Nov 1, 2007 11:27 PM:

" Aren't you clever with Pascal's Wager? What if you're wrong? What if the true diety/dieties aren't Christian at all? At least the agnostic can claim that he's a skeptic just as the Diety made him. "

MORE B.S. wrote on Nov 1, 2007 11:20 PM:

" Its sad that my daughters school had to have a dress up day and not a halloween party because some people do not celebrate it. If they dont do not attend that day. Time to send all this jack asses who to move out of the country. A moment of silence does not hurt ANYONE. No matter what religion you happen to be you can use that time for it. If you chose not to, then sit and pick your nose till its over. "

To non-believers wrote on Nov 1, 2007 7:57 PM:

" I think you are wrong about your beliefs. If I find out I am the one that is wrong, then I guess I've lost nothing by living a good life and trying to help others. You think I am wrong. If you find out that I am the one that is right, you'll lose alot. I pray. That is my right as a citizen. You don't pray. That is your right. What you do in the moment of silence is your business. All this guy is doing is getting a little publicity for his radio show. I would be interested if his radio show would turn down a religious sponsor. I'm guessing they wouldn't turn down the money. One's beliefs sometimes only go as far as the money. "

I am willing to wager wrote on Nov 1, 2007 7:39 PM:

" ...that many of the posts from 'supposed' atheists, supporting the act, are actually religious individuals, or possibly the same handful, attempting to make it seem like there is a plethora of people supporting the act. It would not be the first time some religious zealot(s) used deception to get what they wanted. "

Here-Here for "re:Leave it to a Godless Liberal " wrote on Nov 1, 2007 7:14 PM:

" I too am a conservative... and oddly I have lived in both San Francisco and Chicago... so the gentleman's point is not quite reaching me, fully. When I lived in SF I was no more a "left-wing nut" than I am a pig farmer or a State Farm worker for now living in B/N. "

I'm a liberal wrote on Nov 1, 2007 7:10 PM:

" and I find this case's claim to be embarrasingly petty, over-exaggerated and completely invalid. "

Ruining it for the rest of us atheists! wrote on Nov 1, 2007 7:08 PM:

" I'm an atheist and frankly, I appreciated the moment of silence... some prayed- I cat-napped. Some folks just have to ruin it for everybody! "

Funny how... wrote on Nov 1, 2007 5:29 PM:

" Everyone could use a moment of silence just to collect their thoughts on a daily basis. Might make these kids stop and think before saying or doing something they will regret. Like pulling out a gun during lunch and going on a rampage. America is suppose to have all these rights...Freedom of this Freedom of that and honestly...where is that freedom now?? It amazes me that we put the pressure on these young girls about the pill like it's their fault if they get pregnant yet...it takes two. So what is being handed out to the boys? Oh right...'rain coats'... Please. I for one believe in the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, but I don't push it on others. You can share it with them and if they don't accept it then fine. But stop and think about the crazy fast paced lives we live today. Is it really that bad to get these kids to stop and just breathe? For all you know it might just be their last breath. We don't know when it's our time. Nobody does no matter what religion you are or aren't. "

to Mr. Which is more offensive guy wrote on Nov 1, 2007 4:13 PM:

" Since apparently no Christian in this city read the article: In that Maine school, the parents were not parenting and the teen pregnancy rate was sky high. Since the parents weren't doing their job and were not going to do their job, the school took over. Unless there's a teen pregnancy epidemic at Unit 5, I doubt you'll see pills in our schools. Still, I'd rather have birth control pills in school over Jesus. "

Keep all schools quiet. wrote on Nov 1, 2007 4:11 PM:

" We should just stop students from speaking in classes all together, they could institute a fine on each word in the amount of $500. So that way all the students just sit quiety and learn like they are supposed to, and never question anything. "

to TO: Taliban wrote on Nov 1, 2007 4:11 PM:

" LOL, yeah, I'm a prayin' to my gawd science right now! and I'm gunna go to science church later and lurn 'bout atoms. Yup. Idiot. So if science is a god, then Christians must not accept science? Good luck with your TV set tonight with all the science used to develop it. Its the Debils work! "

Mr. Which is more offensive guy wrote on Nov 1, 2007 3:58 PM:

" First of all, I personally do not care if they got rid of the moment of silence or not. It truly doesn't bother me either way. I don't have a problem with it, but that wasn't my point. I just find it humorous how upset and defensive people get about this issue. I mean really, 8-10 seconds of silence?? Quiet contemplation, whether praying, thinking about your day, reflection, etc. are all excellent ways to get in the right frame of mind. Maybe Sherman should take a moment of silence before he whacks his kid next time. Look, I don't want 13 year old kids getting pregnant either, but stating that open contraception provides an option or choice for young teens is too much. When my daughter is 11,12, 13 years old she needs to be informed and guided, by parents, not thrown pills by a public school. You are right, 8-10 seconds of silence is much more damaging. "

TO: Taliban wrote on Nov 1, 2007 3:47 PM:

" Congratulations on using big words. Now I would recommend you go get a dictionary to find out what they mean. We do not, nor ever had, a "sectarian government ." If we did it would not be called the "Silent Reflection and Student Prayer Act " it would be called the "Silent Reflection and Student CHRISTIAN Prayer Act." Just like the fact that under God is not mixing religion and gov't. EVERYONE has a God. Even Atheists. God is a higher power which we believe controls the universe. Christians worship Jehova (a God.) Muslims worship Allah (a God), even Atheists believe science is their controller of their universe, hence a God. Yet for some reason the are scared of that word. So there saying "one nation under God" does in fact fit with what they believe but they are scared to say a word, why? "

to Which is more offensive wrote on Nov 1, 2007 3:14 PM:

" I'd rather pass out the pills. Pills might keep a young girl from ruining her life. A moment of prayer does nothing for anyone. "

to: which is more offensive wrote on Nov 1, 2007 2:01 PM:

" well, let's look at this simply. what purposes do these two things serve? one can keep a fourteen-year-old girl already living in poverty who's doing what even we did at that age, or wished we could, from having a baby she can't or won't take care of and will guarantee one more burden on our system. the other will...err, well, it could....hmmm...maybe for somebody, naw, maybe not...well, DOESN'T DO ANYTHING FOR ANYONE!!! please explain to me how, between those two subjects, a moment of silence is more important to our society than contraception for the very real fact of sexually active teenagers? if your daughter comes home from school with a positive pregnancy test, will you prescribe a moment of silence to solve her problems? would a moment of silence have kept that from happening? seriously, c'mon. "

To: Which is more offensive wrote on Nov 1, 2007 12:53 PM:

" I would say that the moment of silence is more offensive, as it is forcing someone to do something (to take the moment of silence...not pray) were as the latter is providing a choice or option that someone does have take or do. "

Which is more offensive wrote on Nov 1, 2007 11:50 AM:

" Asking children to have moment of silence (by the way they don't have to pray, they can think about that cute girl or boy they saw in Math class), or having schools give controcaptives to children as young as 11 (without parents knowing which health services they are getting due to "privacy issues)." Just stop and think about that for a minute. To be honest, reading this message board really saddens me. You can attack me if you want. "

Taliban and Al Queda running the IL General Assembly? wrote on Nov 1, 2007 11:36 AM:

" I thought this was the whole reason we have troops on the ground in Afganistan was to prevent sectarian government and allow for freedom. Now sectarian government comes home to Illinois! If this was not meant to be a sectarian law, then, why is the work Prayer in its title. You know somewhere in the middle-east someone is watching this story covered on Al jazeera and smiling as they know we are just like them now. They don't hate us anymore. They love us because we are becoming the same backward sectarian state like they are! "

Get over it!!! wrote on Nov 1, 2007 11:24 AM:

" I believe we are sick to death of all the people atheists or not. That protest just to be protesting it is not unconstitutional to be quiet for a moment no one said you have to pray just take a moment and reflect on your day. The day will come when you will have no more moments to reflect on your day and I believe you will miss it. What does the constitution actually say about a moment of silence nothing, thats what give it up. May God Bless You anyway. "

The thing wrote on Oct 31, 2007 11:59 PM:

" I don't like about these crazy Christians is things like gay marriage. Who cares if a gay couple wants to get married, they aren't bothering you. I am neither gay, nor do i have any gay friends, but if I did, i wouldn't care if they wanted to get married. You Christians need to get over it and move on. And then we have the church with is supposedly a "safe" place to go yet look at all the priest who sexually abuse people. Talk about crazy. Those are just two things there and I didn't bring up the Bible being the biggest hoax in the past 2000 years. "

To: To: Makes sense wrote on Oct 31, 2007 10:21 PM:

" Did I say that the Christian sheep think it's insidious? The Christian leaders aren't sheep. They know what's up. They are using the same tactics that have worked so well since the third century. "

To: Makes sense wrote on Oct 31, 2007 9:21 PM:

" Even the politicians that voted for this act admit they pressure for it came from Christian organizations, or would not vote against it because the Christian constituents in their area would vote them out. The only ones who do not know the act is to get religion in school, or at least will not admit it, are the ones who pushed for the act in the first place...the Christians. I believe that most of the Christians do not see any insidious about it. After all, the majority of Christians are just sheep, being told what to think and do by those who have the most to gain by recruiting kids. "

Makes sense wrote on Oct 31, 2007 7:33 PM:

" The law doesn't require people to pray, according to the Christians. So why do you desire such a law? Perhaps it's because many Christians believe that converting others is part of being Christian. I know, I was raised Christian and read the Bible many times over. This 'moment of silence' isn't harmless. It's an insidious way to force one's dogma on other people's children. "

re:Sandy wrote on Oct 31, 2007 4:43 PM:

" Why can't you do that when you get out of bed? Or before school? You certainly do not need this in school. It is a cheap ploy to introduce imaginary gods into people lives. "

Sandy wrote on Oct 31, 2007 3:04 PM:

" I'm thankful for the moment of silence. It gives me a chance to think what's upcoming for the day and focus my mind. "

the answer again wrote on Oct 31, 2007 1:32 PM:

" ok so did you forget the silent reflection part? couldn't your children use some silent reflection? i know mine could! LOL seriously some of you are blowing this too far out of the water. just something else for ya'll to hollar about, and funny thing if you go in to ANY of these blogs its ALL bickering. over EVERYTHING!!! you can chose to be angry about it, or throw a fit over it, there are those kinds of ppl that no matter what you can do for them they always find a reason to complain and whine! so feel how ya'll want, bottom line is they DON'T have to pray! case closed i have nothing more to say about the subject, you ppls arguing is giving me a head ach i need a moment of silence! LOL "

to the answer wrote on Oct 31, 2007 12:10 PM:

" I didn't use the term "christian sickos." I have a little more tact than that. Remember, the law is called the "Silent Reflection and Student Prayer Act", so "prayer" has been a part of it from the beginning. Its a slippery slope. What's next? Why would my child pray? We don't pray in my household and my older son has only been in a church for his uncle's wedding... oh, and voting in 2004. My daughter has never been in a church. Hardly a concern for me, but if one of my kids wants to follow a faith, that's their business. I just don't want public schools to be pushing religion either directly or indirectly via peer pressure. "

the answer wrote on Oct 31, 2007 9:58 AM:

" to to:to:to silence " Like so many others have asked before: Prior to the moment of prayer**ahem**silence, was anyone forbidden to pray? If the moment of prayer**ahem**silence were repealed, would you be unable to pray? " You just proved my point, NO it won't stop prayer, just like it won't MAKE YOU pray. I myself would not use my free time to pray, however i would rather side with christian sickos (your words not mine) then with parinoid idiots!! You are making yourselves look like fools. this is just a bit over the top to be worried about 15seconds of time here, come on ppl are you afraid you child MIGHT pray, or think for themselves? what is that your so afraid of? no one is forcing you to do anything! or your children for that matter! and the christians are the sickos! HUH thats interesting since YOU ppl were the ones who brought up prayer!!!! "

I know why wrote on Oct 31, 2007 9:47 AM:

" they are so upset. The word prayer, religion, or anything supporting a higher being is above their thinking. Well I'm offended at the word Atheist, so I will allow them to ban all the afore mentioned words if we ban the word atheist from everything as well. "

H wrote on Oct 31, 2007 8:21 AM:

" This is rediculous. not only is it a "moment of silence" in which kids dont HAVE to pray. This is NOT a viloation of the first admendment, like all these attention craving athiests want, I doubt they even read it... From Wikipedia the First amemdment states: ...rights of freedom of religion (prohibiting Congressional establishment of a religion over another religion through Law and protecting the right to free exercise of religion), freedom of speech... This probhits contress from establishing a "RELIGION OVER ANOTHER RELIGION", even if it was a force of prayer, it wouldnt be a force of "Christian Prayer" or anything like that. "

To: Silence wrote on Oct 31, 2007 7:14 AM:

" The sad news is that this is the way the religious right wing infects society, by small little indescret violations of civil rights. Do you think they'd be able to push for prayer in schools and get away with it, not likely. But it is an easier leap to see how they can go from a moment of reflection to prayer. The SAD news is that the religious factions of the world are parasites tha

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