Sunday, February 20, 2011

My Religion

WARNING: Before reading this please know that I am not trying to influence you in anyway. This has been my life experience. "You just do you, and imma do me"    

What religion am I? I was born and raised Catholic until I reached the age of sanity (George Carlin.) I am now a man of all religions. Think of a light spectrum (Pink Floyd/see below.) I am the white light that is the source of all colors after it is filtered through the piece of glass. The Bible, Qu'ran, Torah, etc...(only ones I could think of) share the same message disguised by different symbolic stories. Peace, love, happiness, the present moment (the white light) are the religion I follow. Who is my God? (or word that I am wondering if i should capitalize or not) My God can not be put in a box with your God. My God is a verb not a noun. My God does not judge. It is the experience, the force, the intention, the stress-free feeling that lies underneath the emotions and thoughts that cause anxiety, stress, and depression; like the sand remains still as traffic passes through the ocean. Do I need to use the word "religion" or "God?" They are just words that point in the direction of your own subjective outlook and experience of life. Am I an Athiest? Hell no, that would mean I have an absolute belief in a set of manmade rules. Following rules doesn't make you a good person. I don't know what religion I am, I just follow my path that I have zero control over. Once my mind stops looking for God and I feel the absolute serenity of a quiet brain then and only then do I experience God (dog spelled backwards) a.k.a. the happy feeling that Jesus, Allah, or Buddha want me to feel.



130 comments:

  1. Vinny! You're awesome! check out my blog!

    www.NatalieLyn.com

    XOXO

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  2. I love this....seriously. I really liked the George Carlin line. While I think religion is still huge among people in our generation, I do think there are a lot of people -- who like us -- just want to live without having to worry about rules that were set upon us by some higher being. Like you--I was raised Catholic, but I don't follow anything now. Again--not atheist, but definitely not a follow of anything that's set in stone. Welcome to the Blogosphere Vinny!

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  3. You should listen to the song I Love You and Buddha Too by Mason Jennings.. this post immediately reminded me of that song aha

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  4. I have to say...that is some real stuff right there. Props to you for being able to be real with yourself and everybody else who is so totally obsessed with "religion". Too bad more people can't speak on it like this. People should believe what they want, but keep an open mind to offerings of other religions. Nice post bro.

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  5. You should watch Zeitgeist episode one; it talks about religion and makes sense.

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  6. I find it really interesting that this was the first blog post. It is certainly against the character that has been portrayed (created?) of you on TV. It's nice to see you from another angle. And I dig the spectrum/religion comparison. That actually makes a lot of sense, but consider that the white light is the light at the heart of all religions, and the rainbow represents the multiple religions where it can be seen.

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  7. interesting perspective!

    http://lavieamonavis.com

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  8. I like the analogy to the album cover's image. Everything centers around the idea of peace and happiness. We all have our own set of beliefs, but there is no need to judge someone for what they believe in because in the end, we are all believing in that white light.

    I was born and raised as Roman Catholic and while I'd like to stay with my family's beliefs, I think this generation is realizing we it's okay to stray and create your own religion for yourself.

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  9. I LUV THIS!!!! I ALSO LUUUUV THAT UR NOT SCARED TO SPEAK UR MIND!!!! 2 THUMBS UP!!!!

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  10. read mine vinny! i love yours.

    http://erincodone.blogspot.com/

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  11. Love this. I feel the same way. You are amazing ;)

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  12. This sums up exactly how I feel, everyone wants me to do this and believe that but unless I have my own faith and follow my own heart I feel like im just a hipocrate. Im not a bad person or Athiest just because I don't follow and go to the same place at the same time every Sunday, I just do me and try to clinch to my faith and stay positive! Thanks For Sharing Vinnie <3
    !

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  13. Dude, I'm exactly the same, it's like you read my mind!! :) Check mine out! shewillneverhaveagirlfriend.tumblr.com you'll laugh I promise :D
    Ps. I know my name's the Sheikh but I'm a girl ;)

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  14. Oops, I meant shewillneverhaveaboyfriend.tumblr.com sorry! You're background picture distracted me! :P

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  15. you can't be true to others unless you are true and real with yourself.

    very well written, and you made a great point =)

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  16. I think it's really great you have decided to do this. So many people talk shit about you guys after viewing the show making false accusations that you lack intelligence and the only thing you are good for is teaching youngins how to party. On a side note, remember you are truely blessed to be brought to fame, and you should give back to those who brought you to the top, your fans.

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  17. I like the Pink Floyd light spectrum example you used, that's very intelligent, no offense but I definitely thought you were just an attractive guy who is a complete dumbass. But... you might just be intelligent. Keep writing. BTW we have the same religious views.

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  18. nice.. I am unsure if you read your comments as I'm sure there will be many to come, but if you do, you need to write to my email.. heatherhouk@hotmail.com and the rest will follow..

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  19. That's the opposite of the show. The shows FBGM, but Religions the complete opposite. Stay chill bro.

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  20. Yo, reading this AND NOW trying to type this comment while being blowed and being on a Marvel VS Capcom break is mind blowing lol
    Btw,
    Nice job. ^ there ;)
    Hey Vinny.
    You play Live sometimes, if you ever wanna challenge a pretty cool gamer chick -
    Get at me ;)
    Chun-Li, Phoenix, & Storm = my personal #dreamteam
    Haha come get summ (if u ever play it)
    I beasssst, lol ::

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  21. Different response...This would be an awesome religion but my one problem is you don't talk about life after death! All of these religions have some similar ideas but only one gave a tangible connection to God. A relationship and not religion. He is good, real and love. He is Jesus! Reality is many don't who is and what he did for all but I am here to say Christianity hasn't made it easy...I'm confident in Him...learn about him and ask him to show him self and you will never be the same...your covered in my prayers...make sure your soul is confident before its too late!

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  22. So really what it comes down to, it's God. Wherever you look, it's God appearing as this, that, that���and what you really love and appreciate in each form is the divine formless out of which each form comes. But to be able to sense that you have to sense it in yourself first. And that is seeing the beauty in everything, that's really what it means. -Ekhart Tolle

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  23. Vinny,

    I am intrigued in an inexplicable, unprecedented way. Your reference to Pink Floyd’s light spectrum was superb. I am sure you not only surprised people with your verbiage, but also opened many minds to the controversial subject of religion. In my opinion, you are no longer a nebulous character from the Jersey Shore, but also a fine individual (intellectual) that will use the power of "blogging" to go into depth, in regards to "the REAL Vinny Guadagnino". I for one am definitely looking forward to it.
    Good luck!

    Warmly,
    Kyra F.

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  24. As an Atheist, I'm always interested in understanding the beliefs of those who do have some kind of religious faith, but hate when someone tells me that I need religion in my life to be happy. It seems as though I, like yourself, think religion is for each individual person. This blog surprised me. When I clicked on the link for this blog, I didn't think I would read something like this. I think you having your own blog is a great way to break down the stereotype of who people think you are based solely on that show. Good for you!

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  25. Nicely said! Love how "open minded" you are :) most people cant think hard enough to open their minds to thinking outside their "own lil world" It doesnt mean they need to believe in anything different than what they already do but just hear other people out, realize people are different. It doesnt hurt anybody, right? right!
    :) <3

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  26. Hey Vin,
    Really deep post. Definetly shows a great mind, and alot that lies beneath just looks.
    Your post definetly made me think...you should blog often, you have a great way of explaining things.
    I got to meet you once, and you are a very sweet sincere person. It's nice to see someone be so level headed and have deeper thoughts, than just money, girls and fame.

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  27. I'm very impressed. You should be proud of yourself for sure for laying it on the line. Not very many people would do that even if they weren't famous.

    Even though you're prolly to busy to read this... stay chill & have fun in Italy!! I'll be there in the summer for volleyball. :]

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  28. I’m not sure how I feel about what you’ve just said. You try to make it appear you are this “light” that is full of love and peace - accepting of everyone and everyone’s values. Yet, your first remark is to imply being Catholic means not being sane.
    Sort of a contradiction of everything else you say after – as the first thing you do is judge a religion.
    If we all judge religion by the extremists that make the headlines representing our religion there would be no place for any religion in the world. As none are perfect.
    So yeah, I’m Catholic. I give up meat on Fridays during lent, I don’t say the Lords name in vain, I have made almost all of the seven sacraments, I pray before bed and respect the Virgin Mother. But I also have friends who aren’t Catholic, who are gay, who have had abortions, who think Jesus was really just a Jewish carpenter.
    Just because I follow some rules and live my life in part because of my religion doesn’t mean that is who I am.
    I’m of the belief that you should just be a good person. Being kind isn’t a religious decision it’s a human decision.

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  29. Good perspective. I'm not an expert on the issue but I think organized religion can cause so many problems. When it comes down to it spirituality should be a peaceful way for an individual to come to terms with life, death, existence, etc.

    Awesome first post, keep up the good work!

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  30. I actually have to say that this blog really surprised me and definitely made me look at you differently. You're really quite intelligent. I'm a fan of George Carlin myself, and I'm an agnostic atheist as well. But there's just one thing that I'd like to say. There are two types of atheists, as there are theists. Agnostic atheists and gnostic atheists. Gnostic atheists are the ones that you wouldn't agree with, which firmly claim that no "god" exists. Whereas agnostic atheists are agnostic, meaning they don't claim that "god" doesn't exist, but only reject the claim that "god" does exist. But again what is "god"? Everyone has their own interpretation of the word.

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  31. AMEN Vinny!! I completely agree with you and have the same views you do!! I hope you keep blogging! :) i love it!

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  32. Well Vinny... I would like to first say I love the show! You guys crack me up! I love that you are real! And the fact you do Sunday dinner is awesome! I'm a family girl so that's cute! To your blog on religion... I have been a Christian for as long as I can remember.. I have back slidden and not walked the way I should have.. but im human..in those times I was always drawn back to the truth and that Truth being God.. Jesus...His holy word the Bible...Everyone is looking for their purpose in this world.. We all want peace within ourselves.. Love.. fulfilment in our lives..an understanding of this crazy place we live in... Look up Louie Giglio on google and go to his clip intitled Indescribable.. It will open your eyes.. It did me..you seem like a nice guy.. I hope you find what your looking for.. Just look up! I'm sure you'll find your answer! :)

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  33. Vinnie, you should buy The Power of Now.. It's only like 8 bucks on Amazon. I'll quote the back of the book..

    "To make the journey into the Now we will need to leave our analytical mind and its false created self, the ego, behind. From the very first page of Eckhart Tolle's extraordinary book, we move rapidly into a significantly higher altitude where we breathe a lighter air. We become connected to the indestructible essence of our Being, “The eternal, ever present One Life beyond the myriad forms of life that are subject to birth and death.” Although the journey is challenging, Eckhart Tolle uses simple language and an easy question and answer format to guide us. A word of mouth phenomenon since its first publication, The Power of Now is one of those rare books with the power to create an experience in readers, one that can radically change their lives for the better."

    Love you, love your show. ;)

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  34. two things;
    -mad props for the name of the blog,
    -second, buddhism is the best thing ever.
    prost. x

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  35. This is Awesome. Your my fav on the show, nicest and sexiest!

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  36. You know, I watch the show, and I honestly judge people by what I've seen. I assume that all you care about is the gym, tanning and clean clothing.

    But, this is actually really insightful. The thing is about not having a religious denomination is that you can see different perspectives, understand them, interpret them, and see how they overlap.

    I HIGHLY recommend a movie called "Blame it On Fidel." (forewarned it IS in french, but has subtitles) There are a few scenes where you can see that just because we come from different walks of life doesn't mean we are completely dissimilar.

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  37. Brilliance! I completely agree with everything you said; it's exactly how I live my life. I'm glad you've decided to open yourself up to the world and show the true Vinny. You're awesome! Keep it up.

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  38. Vinny! I've been such a fan of you since the beginning of the show...you've always seemed to have the most common sense! Hoping to see you at The Guvernment this Friday??

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  39. Perfect words Vinny. I myself am also following this path so I agree with you 100%. I actually find it funny how to more people say that the Jersey Shore cast must be stupid, the more you show pure intelligence.

    You should definitely join tumblr too and/or take a look at my blog: haus-of-MG.tumblr.com

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  40. ‘I don't know what religion I am, I just follow my path that I have zero control over. Once my mind stops looking for God and I feel the absolute serenity of a quiet brain then and only then do I experience God’ – I love this and couldn’t have verbalised it any better.

    I was also brought up Catholic and can’t explain what religion I am now or who my god is to anyone else, but it doesn’t matter, I have a god of my understanding. I just try to live in the present and be grateful.

    Keep posting.

    x

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  41. I really enjoyed this video so maybe you will too. It's called how science saved my soul.

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r6w2M50_Xdk

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  42. I agree with what you say. I believe there is a higher power but I don't believe you should limit your beliefs to one religion. You meet so many different people from so many different backgrounds and who are we to say they are wrong because their beliefs differ from ours? Great post:)

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  43. Yo mad props on that. You got a gift with words and you need to keep comin with real talk on serious subjects and I will be comin back. Plus your a trip on twitter. Stay true to the game and away from the grenades. @bgizzzle

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  44. Don't think anyone could say it better. Was def not expecting this on your page but it bumped ur respect from me up a couple knotches. Keep being you!! Your the best! :)

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  45. Check out Unitarian Universalism... I found it not long ago and it fits perfectly with what you're saying (and I'd be the last person to try to "convert" anyone to anything...)

    http://www.uua.org/visitors/index.shtml

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  46. HEllo i also believe there is a God but i share a little bit different view of this because i am a christian, i think this is a brilliant post and I agree that you said "just do you and imma do me" but like i said i am a christian and i believe in God and i think because there is a God we should figure out what he wants, i believe in heaven and hell and i believe the bible is the word of God because no one can disprove it and the bible also has prophecys and tells the futere, but now that being said i am open to other holy books like the Qu'ran and others, and other views on the subject and i know there are evil forces on this earth trying to lead you away from God, one last thing i do encourge you and everyone on here to watch zeigeist although the religion part is made up on assumptions and lies but the rest of is all good and will help you start to open you mind to what is really going on in the world....i apologize for such a long post.

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  47. It appears as though everyone had you pegged as a big, dumb, meathead.

    Interesting.

    I liked this. Quite simply, life and everything that accompanies it is much too large to fit neatly into society's idea of 'religion.'

    Now, keep being brainy and existentialist. ;)

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  48. i would also like to say i can send links to anyone who wants to know more about this stuff because it is seriously important information and im not one of those conspiracy people who believe in all conspiracies

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  49. I am some what impressed, it was a bold move to start with this topic. But it seems to me that your confused. I understand that your not an atheist, you have BELIEFS. But it's always been the case that most religions have the same bases. The differences are in the details. Like, do you believe Jesus was the true Messiah?

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  50. Cause I posted bout the Drunk girls, I thought I would share... My belief... Destiny. But with free choice. See if you follow me. Everything and anything that is supposed to happen does. Its our reactions to those events, and what we do during those moments that = the free choice portion. My mother in law died 2 yrs ago this week. She was 54. Tragic, yes. But in my book, it was supposed to be that way. How we reacted to her illness, & her death, was on us, but the fact that she was sick & then died, we had no control over. And our actions after she died, thats on us too. Whatever is supposed to happen in our lives will. Thats why you can make the $$$ your making doing your thing, but the guy who u grew up with, who life was just like yours, before The Shore, is not. Just isnt his destiny, its yours. The interesting thing, everyone gets to see how u react to ur destiny. To this EVENT in your life.

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  51. Go to www.zeitgeistmovie.com-- click the 2007 video. The things this man says about religion will blow your mind.

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  52. I have to say that your description is beyond what I would have expected...it's essentially everything that I feel about religion. "My God does not judge"...that line in particular stood out to me as something that I've always felt...there are so many religions that preach peace and love and yet they are so quick to point the finger at someone else and to pass judgement on their beliefs. I really enjoyed reading this post :)

    -Nichole C.

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  53. Vinny,

    Truthfully I think you should search for truth and I do not believe that it is found within all religions. They all do not share the same beliefs or message.

    I believe that Jesus Christ is God and He alone is everything, I try to follow his rules. Ultimately it is his love, mercy, grace, kindness and forgiveness that keeps me going. I hope you never forget what you were taught and raised believing.

    I'm praying for you!

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  54. i remember when i was a little girl fishing with my dad, i was asking him question about 'god' and how things came to be. and he told me that his beliefs in the great creator is earths its self. its real , it lives , it breaths... we take from it and we give to it. the circle of life, he says in the old days when a warrior has died, they use to make a cradle like and hang them up in the tree so that he could give himself back to mother earth,... my dad had gotten really sick with cancer and he almost died, one day as he was laying in the hospital bed,i asked him if he was affraid to die, he said no, then continued to tell me a story about this old native lady that was on her death bed, and when asked if she was scared to die she said no, why should i be... she began her story with these two babies snuggled tight in a womb, enjoy life... smile , touching eachtohers faces. after the ninth month of playing with eachother in the womb the babies could feel something was happening and they didnt know what to expect, they thought that life was over it was the end, then the first baby was born and then the second, they realized that life wasnt over and that they were together still.... so she said she wasnt scared to die because she knew she was gonna be with her twin sister again soon.... she said that she believe they will meet again and she was just waiting for the day to come........

    i just fell in love with story and made me feel good and a bit of more understanding of death..

    my dad ending beating the cancer and has gotten better but still at high risk of it coming back, he says his job here on earth isnt finished, when its his time to go he will be ready and that one day we will be together again .....
    just thinking positve like that makes me feel good.

    so as for 'gods" and different religions, im not sure what to believe, not sure which one is real and which one is fake
    i do know that the earth is real... i know it creates and grows plants and feeds us..
    so i guess i believe in that.. earth... its REAL it can be seen, touch. you can hear it and smell it...
    i believe in REALNESS.

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  55. would you then consider yourself agnostic?

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  56. "Am I an Athiest? Hell no, that would mean I have an absolute belief in a set of manmade rules"

    Actually, all being an atheist means is that you don't believe in any deity. Whatever else you choose to believe is unique and exclusive to you and does not adhere to atheism.

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  57. You may or may not enjoy this. Amusing quote on Catholicism from "The Natural History of Religon"by D. Hume:

    "“How can you worship leeks and onions?” we shall suppose a Sorbonnist to say to a priest of Sais. “If we worship them”, replies the latter, “at least, we do not, at the same time, eat them.”

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  58. Much respect for the George Carlin reference.

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  59. This is THE MOST INSPIRING and BEST thing about 'religion' I have ever read or could fathom (I feel the exact same about 'religion' and 'God'). You took the words right out of my mouth, but put them together so much better. THANK YOU for writing this for everyone to see.

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  60. What you're describing here is a little like what it sounds like when I try to explain what I believe in to someone. I still haven't gotten it down yet. It's nice to know I'm not the only one who can't put a specific name on what or who I believe in. I like the way you write, it all flows really well together and it's nice to see :)

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  61. oh, and Natasha's right about the zeitgeist movie...it probably WILL blow your mind...i'd watch the whole thing but i would def watch the first part about religion... and if you do, let us know what you think please :)

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  62. You sure know how to write. I don't only mean this post I mean all of them. I usually don't read long posts at all but for some reason i keep reading yours. Good job :)

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  63. Love is light the 5th element ...love is the only religion ... http://neesuwoojewelrydesigns.blogspot.com/

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  64. Going through the same thing right now....so confusing and enlightening at the same time...

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  65. Agreed! Good stuff Vinster. You're a very intelligent man.

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  66. i sometimes think that if we were to use Karma as the ultimate religion the world would be a wonderful place full of people respecting each other. My 7 year old son was being bullied at school and I in rage said to both my boys two of you one of him handle it...my son say mom Karma will take care of it....few days later bully falls and breaks his arm. My son say see mom...Karma...then he says you know mom i think maybe we should get to know him maybe he is unhappy for a reason, so we did and found out that the bully had an older mean brother and an abusive father....we now have the bully over for dinner, and to play, and invited to all the parties...the bully has been turned into a friend a friend who has taught us alot. My son has adopted Karma along with prayer and well it works for us!cbryant

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  67. like yourself i was born and baptized and raised catholic (Roman). I am a big believer in god and today being Easter i went to church . I dont let Religion rule my life like most people i have broken the rules of my religion and do on a regular basis i am living in Ireland and here as most people know religion is a big thing and there has been alot of fighting over religion for a long time now.
    I think this blog is very enlightening and shows the true meaning of religion its not about what religion you are its about whether you believe in it and are happy with it.
    Everyone likes to believe in something and have something to look to for guidance and for me its the roman catholic church.

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  68. I absolutely get where you're coming from because that was me until recently. Here's the problem: I think people use the word "religion" as an excuse to not believe in God or to just believe in Him as verb and not a noun, like you said. This happens because the word religion causes so many problems. It sets up rules, gives some people "holier than thou" complexes, and causes wars when verses from Holy books (be it the Bible or the Qu-ran or the Torah etc)are taken out of context or used to try to prove that one set of the beliefs is "right."
    So, am I religious? No. I'm a Christian, but I don't identify with any denomination because I have no religion, I have a relationship. A relationship with God and with my savior Christ Jesus. It's a relationship in which the way I live is controlled by Christ, not the rules of the church (big difference). It is a relationship in which I can screw up and sin over and over again but my Lord will NEVER leave me and will ALWAYS love me perfectly even in all of my imperfection, no matter what the sin is. Most, importantly, I am not judged. God doesn't judge. People do. Yes, under the Old Covenant God was full of wrath and judgement, but under the New Covenant that came only through Christ's blood spilled for us, are we made new and seen as perfect through God's eyes. God looks down at us with not wrath and no judgement because Jesus bore that in His body, on the cross. So you see, it's not about religion, it never was. That label is just man's way of trying to make sense of something that's overwhelming to grasp. But it's not God's way. HIS way is SO much better, and makes MUCH more sense.
    Happy Easter.
    God bless.

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  69. p.s. you should read "Reason for God" by Timothy Keller

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  70. Your brain is so sexy.

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  71. Soooo....

    "light spectrum" ?!?

    "only ones I could think of" !!!!?!

    Stop. Writing.

    Please. Nice earrings?

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  72. we too are of all religions...come check us out www.deepoca.net

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  73. Hey, I'm a college student doing a paper on "Representations of Religion in the 'Jersey Shore' and in Guido Culture." I'm looking to get interviews. If you're interested, get back to me at axionestin10565@gmail.com

    Take care man,
    Hannah

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  74. The gods god might be u or maybe me or someone else, but the fact is that we make our own religion from what we experience in life. my family is all about fredom and own creation, im sad to say that my grandmas religion hurts me cuz they took her away from me so we couldnt be family no more.. jehovah's witness... im glad i was made to be a woman with own faith in life instead of a god. kisses to u Vinny for being u love Jasmina

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  75. Pretty interesting point of view!

    Check out my blog people - HariboGoode.blogsport.com

    and twtter - twitter.com/HariboGoode

    or check me out on facebook - Haribo Goode

    Peace and love x

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  76. Religion is the most confusing and belligerent system to ever plague mankind. It's claims to peace and love are laughable. It's claims to higher knowledge is even more laughable, it can't even get it's facts right about the natural world, how are we suppose to trust it's claims to some sort of supernatural???

    Face it, every one is based on fear tactics: Believe us or suffer eternal punishment. This alone is enough to exclude it from the domain of reason. Islam also offers its adherents virgins in paradise. C'mon, a religion that needs to use sex to recruit has got to be the sleaziest of all.

    BTW: I am an atheist as you can tell, and agree that you do not need to follow rules to be good.
    Goodness comes from our own empathy.
    Consider this:
    If you find out that there was no God, would you go around raping, killing, and stealing??? Didn't think so...

    My advice to you: Be a Deist. It seems like your inclining towards it anyway.

    Matt(Who's listening to "Take it Back" by Pink Floyd....oh what greatness).

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  77. wow this is so touching yet inspiring, vinny you're inspirational.

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  78. I Agree! The "light" that you say.. perhaps the sun that shines and allows nature to grow,,Us to grow.. The "son" of god,, the sun.

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  79. You're a very good writer....after reading a few of your blogs, I am impressed. I'm the CEO of Imperfectly Perfect, Inc. We are a nonprofit, that helps people find a "Blessing in Disguise" in any of their life altering situations...We ask people to donate their stories, which is what I am asking you. We dont limit experiences, and you would be a great way to show that by writing about your recent rise to fame, im sure you have learned a lot in your journey...if you would be interested in donating your story through your beautiful writing, please contact me... JaimeLynn@ImperfectlyPerfect.Org Thank youuu.

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  80. Vinny you are a man after my own heart. <3

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  81. I RESPECT THAT VINNY AND I LOVE YOU VERY MUCH BTW LOVE YOUR SITE LMAOO!!!!!! HAHAH WHAT WELL I EVER DO WITHOUT MY VINNY!! <3

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  82. Vinny you make alot of sense! i love your point of view!<3

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  83. Sweet blog. I've started one that shows my journey into Judaism. Check it out!

    http://fromgoytoger.blogspot.com/

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  84. Actually Carlin said "...until I reached the age of reason."

    I'd like to respectfully disagree that you "have no control". You do. It only takes a thought. That's why behavior is important. Our thoughts create our reality. It goes out like a spider web. Consciousness is underrated. Learn about it.

    Watch this video to learn how powerful our minds really are...
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ud1id81apiQ

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  85. bla bla bla
    nice pic anyway

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  86. "The Bible, Qu'ran, Torah, etc...(only ones I could think of) share the same message disguised by different symbolic stories. Peace, love, happiness, the present moment. "

    Couldn't agree with that statement more. I believe that the Bible, Qu'ran, & Torah all share one purpose. To teach us morals so we can become more open-minded, & accepting to others. By reading what you wrote it helped put my beliefs into words. Great writing, & no offense but I honestly never would of expected this much talent from a Jersey Shore cast member. Great job :)

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  87. I can see what ur trying to do and i respect that... simce i checked out ur Religious beliefs check out mine at http://uccspace.net/theme_eng/157062 thank u vinny... i still like ur show :) but please watch my video!!!
    im mercedeslopez13 on twitter

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  88. NO ONE WILL EVER FEEL COMPLETE WITHOUT ACCEPTING GOD. THAT I CAN PROMISE ANYONE.

    FAITH,LOVE,HAPPINESS. THOSE THINGS ARE CONSTANT!

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  89. i must admit, for a reality tv star.. you're not as dumb as i thought. however, what people don't understand is that being a Christian is not being religious. Having a relationship with Jesus Christ is what's important. not labeling yourself. people can label themselves as Christians, Catholics, etc etc but not really be about it. anywhoo, i hope you open up your heart and mind for Christ. once you get to know Him, you'll see how amazing He really is! God Bless.

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  90. I do agree with most of what you said. People ask me what religion I am and I answer the one that I was baptized into and the one I've attended a couple of times yet I don't really attend church on a regular basis. I think that it is important for everyone to believe in something, a greater being, some greater force, whatever but I don't believe people need to be of a certain religion to seek God or whatever greater source they believe in, as long as people know that there is some higher power out there, I do believe in God, I pray, I live my life as I see fit. I don't wonder about whether I am going to a better place when I'm dead, I want to live the life I was meant to live, I believe in karma, I believe that for every bad thing someone does they will have something worse happen to them and I believe that all the good you put out into the world is given back ten fold. The only rule everyone should follow in the world is to always treat others with the same love and respect we would like to be treated.

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  91. Who's the nutty bitch at the bottom still trying to preach..? I think u made your point

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  92. Vinny! My name is Marsha, from NJ 21years old, huge fan. Anyway, Being a Christian, I have a lot of issues with this article. First of all, the 3 qualities that you stated, “peace, love, and happiness” is only found in the bible, and the torah. The q’uran does not preach this at all. Proof: “Kill the infidels.”-Surah 9:5. Muslims also believe in sharia law, look into it. The Torah, however, is the old testament of the bible, this is where the peace, love, and happiness is. I’m not trying to change your mind about anything but it seems as if you’re agnostic, knowing there is a higher power but not knowing who the higher power is. Being a good Christian/ Catholic does not mean you have to follow “rules” as you’d call it. But the Bible does state you must believe in Jesus in order to enter the kingdom of heaven. I feel as though you’re only thinking about today, and tomorrow, and not about the after life of eternity. ETERNITY. Scary word. But then again, I’d probably be the same way if I was vinny ;). I can go on and on and on. But it is up to you as to what you want to believe, and speaking from experience, once you accept Jesus into your life, you probably wont regret it…..

    PS: i find it hilarious how people are only agreeing with you bc you're vinny...

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  93. Vinny, you are an amazing writer and I completely understand where you come from. I was raised Catholic as well but I believe in the bigger picture. I respect what others believe and I just do my own thing!!!

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  94. Though I don't agree totally with your POV, I do praise you for speaking your mind about your religion. it takes a lot of balls to do that, and many people are scared to say or post what their religion is! Be proud of your beliefs, and don't be ashamed of anything!

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  95. aaaw you're so cute vinny!! i like your views. do me a favor? follow me on twitter! it'll make my liiiife:) @RGREENWELL69

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  96. I give vin mad props for being able to express himself like this and it's good to have views and I was raised catholic too but the truth is Allah and buddah are just satans nicknames. Jesus says "I am the way the truth and the light, the only way to the father is thru me" not condeming anyone or vinny but I searched for many years Cus disagree alot with the catholic church and I figured out the bible speaks the truth and that's that. 40 authors writings over 2000 years being put together perfectly without contradiction and all the prophecies being fulfilled is truly divine. Check into if u dont believe, I respect other people beliefs and don't force it on anyone but I know from real life experiences and other events and facts that Jesus is the only way to the father and the way the truth and the light

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  97. How can you believe in God (the one true God) and be raised in the church and then completely abandon your belief in Him, after all that he has done for you? Not all holy books have the same message, the Bible is the way the truth and the light if you desire to live eternity in Heaven with your Heavenly Father, all of the holy books are different-the Bible states that Jesus was the Son of God, and that the only way to go to Heaven is through Jesus Christ (who IS the son of God), the Torah believes that the Messiah is yet to come, and the Qu'ran states the the Messiah will be a descendant from Ishmael (who in the Bible turned his back on God and defied His orders). I know that you have your own personal beliefs and I respect that, however, I hope that you consider this and also consider that is it worth giving up the opportunity to live eternity in Heaven with Jesus Christ, who died on the cross for you and by doing so has forgiven you for all the sins that you have and will commit, in order to conform with the other sorry souls who belong to this corrupt society and broken world?

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  98. You like contreversory? Well this is what I think:
    If you believed in Jesus like you claim you would not believe in all that other stuff you say. The bible is not about peace, love, happiness and the moment. It's about trying to live your life on the most Godly manner, giving thanks and doing anything to show your gratitude to your savior that saved your life. Your beliefs are totally selfish and you come up with these theories to justify your sinful actions. I'm not saying I'm not sinful because i really am... But at the end of the day I ask God for forgiveness and pray for his help- i don't go feeding my fans with selfish theories to make myself look better. I suggest you try consulting a pastor or someone who is qualified to interpret Gods scripture because Gods word is way above any of this and these men have studied it for years.

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  99. I think this blog post and many of the comments show how confused and lost many of you are. I love the Lord with all my heart and believe that he saved me so that I can go to heaven. All of you aren't looking at the big picture& that's what is so wrong with people these days. Everyone just wants to be able to do whatever they want and not think about life after death. Im a teenager who goes out& parties & enjoys life but I still go to church every sunday to praise god because everything we have comes from him. Try being a
    little appreciative of this life and of he who gave it
    to you. Life on earth isn't all there is. Life is so much better with the Lord. Try it, you have nothing to lose.

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  100. Different than the restAugust 16, 2011 at 9:53 PM

    I wouldnt normally post on something like this, but I feel compelled. It sounds like your soul is in search of the truth about this life, the deeper meaning to life. That is something I relate to every single day. Im 23 now - when I was 13 I started using drugs and partying all the time. Thats what I lived for. Eventually it got old and I started becoming depressed. I wanted to change my life but my efforts failed. I prayed saying to God "if you are real, if you exist, please help me". I didnt pray to any specific religion I just prayed to God expecting the true God to answer if he infact existed. He did, by crossing my path with a pastor who has taught, loved, and supported me, without judgement when I failed. From then on I began to read the bible and pray for God to show me his way, the truth. I believed he would and he did and is. I was given inner strength to quit drugs and graduate high school. When you seek the God of truth with an expecting heart, he sees and answers. He has a way and his way is full of life. I am now a nurse and engaged to a wonderful man of God who loves me. God has given me more life than the world could ever offer. Its a soul thing. Christianity in its purest is not judgmental or condeming. Jesus Christ came so that we might have life, and have it more abundantly, if we surrender our life to him. My life is a witness to how his love and power is real. I pray that in your journey to find the truth, you do. Never stop seeking the truth, and if that truth leads you to have to change some of your ways, always remember that the truth will set you free. --------"The whole of creation is subject to order and laws to sustain its life, the difference between humans and the rest of creation is that we have a choice not to follow the order our creator gave to us."

    Peace&Love

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  101. Woah, i never thought you could make such good use of words :)

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  102. Just smiling...

    Love from norway

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  103. Proverbs 4:18-19
    The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, shining ever brighter till the full light of day. But the way of the wicked is like deep darkness; they do not know what makes them stumble.

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  104. 3.John 8:24 - "I said therefore to you, that you shall die in your sins; for unless you believe that I am He, you shall die in your sins."

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  105. Sounds like you are kind of narcissistic. Could it be your fame has gone to your head??? No, impossible. And I am not a. "Hater", bro. I am actually a fan of the show, you seemed very down to earth at one point but that seems to be slipping. I love the george carlin comment though, but god is the experience? Cmon, god is a verb? I think, (cause no one really knows even though it sounds like u got it all figured out, forgot you had a college education) that God or. A supernatural force does exist, coincidences are often too coincidental, life too amazing and beautiful, and love too real. Feelings in your soul to me is proof that there is an absolute force out there and following rules may not make you a good person, but treating all equally and not being self centered does.

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  106. This post is for everyone who reads this blog

    What do you say to the people that saw Jesus die on the cross and saw Him again 3 days later walking around? It is history...not just a story. Go research it. There is a documentary called "The Case for Christ" that was written by a former atheist until he actually found all of this evidence for Jesus being REAL. I'm not trying to shove this down your throat...it is your decision, but before you come up with your own "idea" of what religion is, maybe it would be a good idea to know all the facts first. It is just like with a case in court...you need all of the facts before you can come to a verdict, you can't just determine if a something happened or not by what you "think" probably happened.

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  107. Study mythology, it brings the discussion of religion to a different level. You can see how stories from the bible were derived from other stories and myths from other cultures and different times. It's definitely an interesting topic. You're the first person I've read directly saying nearly exactly how I feel about god. God is life, is love, is just being. A butterfly flitting on a beautiful summer's day, a newborn babe suckling at the teat of a new mother... It's all god, not God.

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  108. Most of you commenting, and indeed the writer of this blog post, obviously live by the mantras of "existence is what I say it is" and "God is who I say he is". A very typical opinion of many people today. However, it is a logically flawed way of thinking. If God exists (and I'm not going to say who/which God that is), he is who HE says he is, and existence is what HE says it is. Your opinions mean nothing. You are the clay, not the potter. It does not belong to the clay to decide who the potter is, nor what the potter wants the clay to be. This attitude is akin to the "if it feels good do it" mentality. There is no humility in this way of thinking, only pride and arrogance. If God does exist, wouldn't it be in your best interest to find out who he really is, and what he actually wants you to do?

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  109. Wow...I am totally impressed. With your explanation, your intelligence & your open mind. I know how hard that can be to have coming from a catholic family (maybe Floyd had "something" to do w/it ;-) I'd LOVE to have deep, intellectual conversations w/you....totally on my wave bro ;-)

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  110. I loved reading this. It was so eloquent and it is so fitting in today's world.

    Much love,

    Jackson L.
    www.jackson-quade.blogspot.com

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  111. I'm sure u have had so many responses n may not see this but I'd like to inform u of something. The reason behind why the monotheist religions ie islam, Christianity etc are similar is because they are all true in some shape or form. May not b enirely be the truth but it has a large amount of elements of truth. In Islam, there is the belief of the Torah and the gospel. They are all books brought down to earth with the truth of God. Over years, both books were edited by human beings hence twisting the truth and this s why they appear similar. The qraan was then brought down by God through his last messenger with instructions that it must be learned by heart from generation to generation hence reducing the risk of human beings editing His word.
    Islam is the only religion that shows any connection or accepts any other religion as also being true. According to ur blog u seem to agree that there are elements that are shared as 'the truth' n many religions and this s true. Maybe Islam then, is for u.
    Asalaam alaykum.

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  112. Your are a freemason, that's what you tried to tell. That's what they tried to teach me when they wanted me to convert to a freemason but I knew it was wrong.

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  113. I don't BELIEVE in god. I FEEL god.

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  114. You are very smart and open minded.. I agree with alot of ur views.. Who knew. Email me kaykay118@aol.com

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  115. I agree with you wholeheartedly, Vinny!!!

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  116. I agree with your post.
    I am late for comment your article but nvm, lol!

    God is the white light by which every color exists. Without that, it would be the absolute blackness. It is necessary to see lights to distinguish colors there. It is necessary to believe in something not to sink into the shade.

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  117. That's exactally how i am too I love it n feel like you pulled the words right outta my head lol i always knew you would be the one to do such a good blog like this. :)

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  118. I just watched the episode where you left jersey shore and I just would like to say that I think you're searching for something real in life. You tired the world's definition of fun(parties, girls, money) and you still feel empty. Its because you would never be able to find peace and contentment in those things and you know it because you've tried it.
    The only way to find that peace that you're looking for is through Jesus Christ. His word says "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Matt. 11:28. So why don’t you try Him. You have nothing to loose and I promise you everything to gain.

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  119. Hey, Vinny, I plead that you let go and let Christ enter your heart. Repent of all your sins. God bless you. (John 3:16-18; Ephesians 2:8-9; John 14:6; 1 John 4:15).

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  120. You need to Let go and let Jesus. Because all what matters is having a relationship with Him. Not religions. Jesus>Religion

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  121. God, the father of Jesus, does judge. In fact, He is the only one who can judge. Fact, the second upon our death, we all will stand before Him and be judged. The post will be judged for their wickedness. While the righteous will be judged for their disobedience. Vinny, If you have not given your heart to Jesus, I pray that you do. Because not all religions are equal. Not all gods are the same. Satan wants you to believe this so that you will be condemned to eternal damnation. God loves you Vinny, so much that He sent His son Jesus to suffer the ultimate penalty of sin for you. Yes you. I will be praying for you Vinny, that God might convict you to repent and ask for forgiveness. May God bless you and keep you.

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