If Gold is such a productive place, where could I watch some of these “training films?” They look hilarious in a scary sort of way. I wouldn’t want to enter an Org to see one, however. Do any commenters know where I could watch one/some online?

“we’re a new religion and all new religions have their critics” is the line they use

Another new religion, only slightly older than Scientology, is Wicca. I know a whole bunch of Wiccans. I know zero Scientologists, though I live 40 minutes away from their “mecca”. I never hear or see any serious criticism of Wicca except from right-wing Bible-beating nutjobs who don’t understand it and don’t want to. Whenever Scientology comes up, everyone starts talking about how horrible it is, and the better they understand it, the more critical they are of it.

Speaking of teeth, I heard that Bruce and Beth Settle (both dentists, and Bruce an orthodontist) joined the SO years ago. So they could provide dentistry to the SO members. Anyone know if they are still in? And are they fixing teeth, or are they cleaning floors with toothbrushes?

Tod – thanks for understanding what I was trying to say. I was worried that it might have come across that I was saying that those who’ve been to college are somehow inherently superior, but that’s not my point at all.

Wow John! Very insightful posts on the similarities between LDS and SCN! I especially like how you pointed out that both LDS and SCN have their “space operas.” Also, I really liked the bit about how both LDS and SCN promise an ascended state relative to others (i.e., it’s not about there being a heaven where everybody who makes it has the same powers & understanding & worthiness).

Incidentally, I grew up near Navoo and know both versions of the story. Thanks again and best of luck on your journey.

Hi! I <3 you SPF. I hope you had a wonderful Valentine's Day!

Somehow I don’t think that Shelly is the one doing the blowing in that relationship (ahem).

I actually thought about getting some of those. It’s way cheaper than buying ice all the damn time.