OFFLINE

it seems to me that we live in a go-with-the-flow kind of society, where you can have your beliefs, but only in a superstitious kind of way. if you REALLY believe in something, and take a stand for those beliefs, then you've painted yourself into a corner, and are now vulnerable to being called insensitive, bigoted, and narrow-minded.

there is a theme out there that what you believe to be true, is only truth for you; that there is no real truth, only different versions of truth. people seem to have either become cynical about the battle of ideals (that it doesn't really matter anymore), or have been so bombarded, that they feel they just don't have the energy for it anymore.

but this is what the elites want. they want the public to be aloof and disengaged, as it makes their job easier.

it's okay to have conviction. we must have the rudder of conviction, lest we're at the mercy of the prevailing winds.

OFFLINE

Maybe 'taking a stand' for one's beliefs isn't necessary. Or to be more specific and direct, I have my beliefs, but it's not important to me whether or not anyone else agrees with them, and I don't feel the need to insist that anyone else is even aware of my beliefs. But that's regarding religion or spirituality or - God.

I do tend to think that taking a stand for things like Freedom is favorable though, but only to a point because sometimes it feels like there's a very fine line between freedom and chaos. But regarding religious or spiritual beliefs, what difference does it really make if anyone knows, understands, appreciates, accepts, whatever - my beliefs? I only needs that of myself, not the rest of the world.

I guess one thing I feel is quite favorable to take a stand on is one's authenticity and independence. But then that 'stand' might only look like turning cheek and going about one's business.