Honey, I Blew Up Jesus!

I'm agnostic about most things. I'd like to think that I will meet a God one day, but I'm not placing bets on it. In spite of my agnosticism, I can still relate to the need that people have for religion. Sense of place and purpose in the universe can be comforting if you can get it. And, given the fact that most people on the planet pray to a humanoid diety, who am I to challenge the practice? Live and let live.

Still, I found the 19 story, 2 1/2 million pound white metal cross in Groom, Texas to be a bit disconcerting. Not because I was worried that Mel Gibson was directing the latest installment of the 'Honey, I Shrunk the Kid' saga, but because I was reminded of a key gripe that I have with humanity.

Why do people go to so much effort to construct facades of piosity? It seems to me that the world would be a much better place if people simply behaved like the good people that they claim to be. Instead, we all misdirect our energy trying to prove that we are something better than our neighbors. That's my gripe. Well, one of them.

They say that everything is bigger in Texas, so maybe the Texans want to show the rest of the Christians that they are top dog. I was raised by people with Christian beliefs, so I do know a little bit about the New Testament. I tend to think that Jesus would not be too pleased with the giant cross. I would be willing to bet that Jesus would prefer that the good people of Texas spend their energy on more Christian things. Like, for example, not executing people.

Photos

Random photo highlights include a US Post Office in a trailer, the Cadillac Ranch, and various museum displays -- including a 'Last Chance Texaco' from the Route 66 museum in Elk City, Oklahoma. That Texaco display got me thinking of Ricky Lee Jones songs for the remainder of the ride to the motel. A wonderful way to pass the miles.

Photo Journal

Ride Summary

Tuesday: 99 Miles from Amarillo to Shamrock
Wednesday: 85 Miles from Shamrock, TX to Clinton, OK

Looks like rain and hail all day tomorrow. I think I'll bring Ricky Lee Jones along in my head for the ride...

Miles This Year: 3381