From what I can see there is religiosity on the one hand and authentic religion/spirituality on the other. The first is borrowed and proves either superficial or perverted - used for egoic purposes. The second gives a person tremendous motivation and purpose, which is what my own book is about.

My book isn't directly about politics. That said, to me it looks as if the key political problem in America is that moneyed interests - large corporations and wealthy individuals - have essentially taken over our government. It's done via how we finance political campaigns - large contributions that are protected since 76 as "free speech" - and massive lobbying efforts.

First, do you also see this as the cornerstone of the politically problematic in America, so to speak. Second, if so, how do we get people excited about this issue? It's a more abstract thing than watching fire hoses turned on peaceful protesters.

Finally, if it were possible to get people marching in the streets over the role of big money in politics, do you think it would make a difference – or has it reached a point where the hold of big business on the branches of government, especially the legislative and executive, is just too tight.

Paul - Original Faith

Posted by: Paul Maurice Martin | January 30, 2008 2:08 PM

AJ Do you think that maybe, just maybe it is about getting the message out and not about book royalties? If the response to the book is little more than cynical mistrust (vs. HOPE), the status quo of government ownership by the wealthy and corporate interests will be allowed to flourish and moral issues go unaddressed.

Young people in the sixties began an awakening, but then became distracted for four four decades while they focused on their own lives and raised their children.

It took two generations to come full cycle. The millenial generation fully realizes the futility of a self-absorbed life. They seek meaning in every action they take. They have reawakened the concept of a moral compass that see issues in a global context.

I am with these young people every day. I believe the hope of the future is in their hands and they are very good hands.

Posted by: gecain | January 31, 2008 8:36 AM

Moderatelad: You know - this site does so much self-promotion of their books etc that it reminds me of the Tammy Faye's and Jan K's of the 'Christian World' that did the samething on their programs to sell records and dolls.

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If there is too much promotion for you, then you are, of course, welcome to leave.

A useful rule-of-thumb to evaluate the motives of the promoters is to look at their lifestyle. Is Jim buying limos?

Posted by: steve | January 31, 2008 1:14 PM

I read a few posts ago that Rick Nowlin was an apologist for Sojo and Wallis.

I guess that's true.

Posted by: AJ | January 31, 2008 8:34 PM