markbernstein ([info]markbernstein) wrote,
@ 2009-06-28 11:32:00
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My new religion
No, I haven't found religion. I've decided to found one. Fandom hasn't had a new religion emerge since the creation of Pastafarianism a few years back, so it's time.

In flipping channels a few nights ago (and where else should a religion come from, these days?), I chanced on a rerun of a newish (and, sadly, inferior) depiction of a true modern-day prophet. In that recent version he was portrayed by Harry Anderson, but for true inspiration one must go back to the definitive interpretation by James Stewart:



Hearing those words again, it occurred to me, after years of fannish personalities, politics, and flamewars, in person, in print, and online, that what fandom could use is a little less smart and a whole lot more pleasant.

I therefore declare the establishment of the Church of Elwood P. Dowd of Latter Day Pooka, aka Harveyism.

Harveyism: We Recommend Pleasant.



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[info]tarkrai
2009-06-28 08:33 pm UTC (link)
A bit harsher in tone, but I would consider supporting ecumenical thought:

Moving parts in rubbing contact require lubrication to avoid excessive wear. Honorifics and formal politeness provide lubrication where people rub together. Often the very young, the untraveled, the naïve, the unsophisticated deplore these formalities as "empty," "meaningless," or "dishonest," and scorn to use them. No matter how "pure" their motives, they thereby throw sand into machinery that does not work too well at best. - Lazarus (Robert Heinlein) Long

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