Re: The Problem with Atheism
Reply #572 –
Oakdale seems to have had such a careless life that even though he has trained his mind somewhat by means of intellectual interests, he has had no practical use for rigorous reasoning to solve real-life problems.
I've worked since I was twelve, when I had a paper route (morning and evening editions of three dailies…) for which I built and maintained a clientele, negotiated with suppliers, arranged and charted routes, etc.; and, finally, sold the business for a profit…
So, your presumption seems unlikely accurate.
Your talk of happiness doesn't inspire me, nor deter me: I like to keep busy. (I can be busy, 'neath a shade tree on the bank of a river, for hours!) But, mostly, I like to be useful! I am technically retired, but I'm as busy as I've always been — caring for others…
Am I happy? The question doesn't really capture my interest: I have had -and continue to have- joyful and sorrowful moments, while I do what needs doing. I try to avoid doing harm…
Can one do more than that? I'm no saint, and -while I've indulged myself occasionally, and been a hermit- I like being among people most.
Dealing with their real problems is -I think- a worthy challenge! But I require their input, connivence and, finally, judgement — to determine how well I've performed — what I take to be my duty.