Re: Faith

[Guest guest]

A thousand apologies, if I have offended anyone, in expressing what I believe in terms of my religion. My intentions were not to "piss-off" anyone, or make anyone feel akward! Nor am I suggesting that my religion is better than others or lack of faith made us sick. I can see where this is going, therefore, I will end it here. Just know I have the up most respect for the group and will abide by your request(s), by keeping things in perspective and balance.

Subject: FaithTo: neurosarcoidosis Cc: NSMods-owner Date: Tuesday, February 16, 2010, 10:54 PM

Once again, I find myself being the "heavy;" and having to address the issue of faith and religious posts.

There is not a member on this group that doesn't have some form of faith-- a belief that they can find a way to live with sarcoidosis and all that it entails. Faith even as small as a mustard seed. Sometimes that is all we have.

Will faith alone heal us? Probably not. That is why we are here to share the journey of what we have learned in treatment options, medication options, diet, exercise, coping skills, and more.

Is it a lack of faith that keeps us sick? Absolutely not. Is it the name of my religion, or yours? Is yours better than mine? Do I need to be told and have those who believe that their faith is better than mine tell me over and over that it is their faith that will heal me. Absolutely not.

As a woman of faith-- and a woman with a wonderful, powerful spiritual side that guides me in my research and sharing of this journey-- I know how powerful faith can be. I also know that it can scare alot of people away.

You may not understand this-- but when you are dealing with the issues of a chronic illness-- and where our medical science doesn't even know how this illness begins, and has no way to cure us-- we - even those of us with faith-- can be so very pissed at god-- or a higher power.

We can all go to our local church or synagogue, or chapel or creek-- and have communion with other people of like minds. We can easily get all the support we need in the manner of our faith.

When it comes to living with sarcoidosis-- we have ten or so support groups-- primarily online. Very few communties have "live" group meetings. So we searched and found this group.

The owners and moderators (also very much woman of faith) all want this forum to be a place where regardless of faith-- you can be supported in learning to live with sarcoidosis.

This is an international --worldwide- globally accessible group. Anyone can join. No one will ask you what you believe in-- who you believe in, or what political party you belong to. We don't want to know! None of that will help us find better treatment for sarcoidosis.

It is this goal in mind-- that we again ask that you remember that this is not a forum to use as a testimony to your faith. We're glad you have faith to lean on-- it's important that we not lose faith-- and that we have access without judgement where we can share treatment options and ideas.

It takes a huge heart to hold this-- to stay strong when even our faith or religious background is on the edge of telling us that it's a lack of "some thing" that keeps us ill.

Please-- open your hearts- know that we all know that this is a tough journey-- and save the religion for your local friends-- share your journey to wellness-- and your sorrows -- and keep a balance.

We know that often it is what is not said-- but what is held in your heart that allows us to be here to discuss sarcoidosis. It is here where we can laugh and cry and yell and fight our way through our disrupted relationships, marriages, job losses, financial in-securities-- and find ways to cope-- and a place to share these issues.

I share this wth all of you because we do have members that refuse to post because of such a strong passionate group of people that mean well-- and yet are misunderstood when they insist on telling us that faith is what gets them through.

Faith, a dose of an immunosuppressant, a dose of an antidepressant, a dose of hugs and laughter and a dose of tears- are all necessary.

My heart goes out to all of you, and all that each of you bring to this group-- and we truly appreciate the prayers-- so please-- keep some perspective and balance.

Sincerely,

Tracie

NS Co-owner/moderator

[Guest guest]

June,

This is not directed towards any one person-- it is an ongoing issue and has been for all the years this group has been in existence.

Sadly, we have to ask that our members practice tolerence and understanding. The two issues that can wreak havoc on any group are religion and politics.

We try to be very tolerant and allow open discussion-- and no matter what way we ask-- it's going to be misinterepted by someone.

Please reread my message-- it is only asking that we be understanding that some of the members may be put off by what has once again become what they feel is a recruitment ground-- and it may just be a sensitive time where other influences are putting pressure or guilt trips on them from outside this forum-- and they're upset-- they too want to express their issues- but don't want to hear that prayer will heal all.

That is why I use the term balance.

Tracie

NS Co-owner/moderator

To: Neurosarcoidosis Sent: Tue, February 16, 2010 8:51:20 PMSubject: Re: Faith

A thousand apologies, if I have offended anyone, in expressing what I believe in terms of my religion. My intentions were not to "piss-off" anyone, or make anyone feel akward! Nor am I suggesting that my religion is better than others or lack of faith made us sick. I can see where this is going, therefore, I will end it here. Just know I have the up most respect for the group and will abide by your request(s), by keeping things in perspective and balance.

From: tracie feldhaus <tiodaat2001@ yahoo.com>Subject: FaithTo: neurosarcoidosis@ yahoogroups. comCc: NSMods-owner@ yahoogroups. comDate: Tuesday, February 16, 2010, 10:54 PM

Once again, I find myself being the "heavy;" and having to address the issue of faith and religious posts.

There is not a member on this group that doesn't have some form of faith-- a belief that they can find a way to live with sarcoidosis and all that it entails. Faith even as small as a mustard seed. Sometimes that is all we have.

Will faith alone heal us? Probably not. That is why we are here to share the journey of what we have learned in treatment options, medication options, diet, exercise, coping skills, and more.

Is it a lack of faith that keeps us sick? Absolutely not. Is it the name of my religion, or yours? Is yours better than mine? Do I need to be told and have those who believe that their faith is better than mine tell me over and over that it is their faith that will heal me. Absolutely not.

As a woman of faith-- and a woman with a wonderful, powerful spiritual side that guides me in my research and sharing of this journey-- I know how powerful faith can be. I also know that it can scare alot of people away.

You may not understand this-- but when you are dealing with the issues of a chronic illness-- and where our medical science doesn't even know how this illness begins, and has no way to cure us-- we - even those of us with faith-- can be so very pissed at god-- or a higher power.

We can all go to our local church or synagogue, or chapel or creek-- and have communion with other people of like minds. We can easily get all the support we need in the manner of our faith.

When it comes to living with sarcoidosis- - we have ten or so support groups-- primarily online. Very few communties have "live" group meetings. So we searched and found this group.

The owners and moderators (also very much woman of faith) all want this forum to be a place where regardless of faith-- you can be supported in learning to live with sarcoidosis.

This is an international --worldwide- globally accessible group. Anyone can join. No one will ask you what you believe in-- who you believe in, or what political party you belong to. We don't want to know! None of that will help us find better treatment for sarcoidosis.

It is this goal in mind-- that we again ask that you remember that this is not a forum to use as a testimony to your faith. We're glad you have faith to lean on-- it's important that we not lose faith-- and that we have access without judgement where we can share treatment options and ideas.

It takes a huge heart to hold this-- to stay strong when even our faith or religious background is on the edge of telling us that it's a lack of "some thing" that keeps us ill.

Please-- open your hearts- know that we all know that this is a tough journey-- and save the religion for your local friends-- share your journey to wellness-- and your sorrows -- and keep a balance.

We know that often it is what is not said-- but what is held in your heart that allows us to be here to discuss sarcoidosis. It is here where we can laugh and cry and yell and fight our way through our disrupted relationships, marriages, job losses, financial in-securities- - and find ways to cope-- and a place to share these issues.

I share this wth all of you because we do have members that refuse to post because of such a strong passionate group of people that mean well-- and yet are misunderstood when they insist on telling us that faith is what gets them through.

Faith, a dose of an immunosuppressant, a dose of an antidepressant, a dose of hugs and laughter and a dose of tears- are all necessary.

My heart goes out to all of you, and all that each of you bring to this group-- and we truly appreciate the prayers-- so please-- keep some perspective and balance.

Sincerely,

Tracie

NS Co-owner/moderator

[Guest guest]

Tracie, I really appreciate what you spoke of regarding faith issues. There is no need for you to apologize; I too believe that our FAITH is what gets us through these tough times. Anyone who does not like your comments is always able to leave. But I believe All support your thoughts and wish to remain ... that is, except ONE!! God bless you and stay well!

Always,

L. -Maye, Baltimore MD

To: Neurosarcoidosis Sent: Tue, February 16, 2010 11:51:20 PMSubject: Re: Faith

A thousand apologies, if I have offended anyone, in expressing what I believe in terms of my religion. My intentions were not to "piss-off" anyone, or make anyone feel akward! Nor am I suggesting that my religion is better than others or lack of faith made us sick. I can see where this is going, therefore, I will end it here. Just know I have the up most respect for the group and will abide by your request(s), by keeping things in perspective and balance.

From: tracie feldhaus <tiodaat2001@ yahoo.com>Subject: FaithTo: neurosarcoidosis@ yahoogroups. comCc: NSMods-owner@ yahoogroups. comDate: Tuesday, February 16, 2010, 10:54 PM

Once again, I find myself being the "heavy;" and having to address the issue of faith and religious posts.

There is not a member on this group that doesn't have some form of faith-- a belief that they can find a way to live with sarcoidosis and all that it entails. Faith even as small as a mustard seed. Sometimes that is all we have.

Will faith alone heal us? Probably not. That is why we are here to share the journey of what we have learned in treatment options, medication options, diet, exercise, coping skills, and more.

Is it a lack of faith that keeps us sick? Absolutely not. Is it the name of my religion, or yours? Is yours better than mine? Do I need to be told and have those who believe that their faith is better than mine tell me over and over that it is their faith that will heal me. Absolutely not.

As a woman of faith-- and a woman with a wonderful, powerful spiritual side that guides me in my research and sharing of this journey-- I know how powerful faith can be. I also know that it can scare alot of people away.

You may not understand this-- but when you are dealing with the issues of a chronic illness-- and where our medical science doesn't even know how this illness begins, and has no way to cure us-- we - even those of us with faith-- can be so very pissed at god-- or a higher power.

We can all go to our local church or synagogue, or chapel or creek-- and have communion with other people of like minds. We can easily get all the support we need in the manner of our faith.

When it comes to living with sarcoidosis- - we have ten or so support groups-- primarily online. Very few communties have "live" group meetings. So we searched and found this group.

The owners and moderators (also very much woman of faith) all want this forum to be a place where regardless of faith-- you can be supported in learning to live with sarcoidosis.

This is an international --worldwide- globally accessible group. Anyone can join. No one will ask you what you believe in-- who you believe in, or what political party you belong to. We don't want to know! None of that will help us find better treatment for sarcoidosis.

It is this goal in mind-- that we again ask that you remember that this is not a forum to use as a testimony to your faith. We're glad you have faith to lean on-- it's important that we not lose faith-- and that we have access without judgement where we can share treatment options and ideas.

It takes a huge heart to hold this-- to stay strong when even our faith or religious background is on the edge of telling us that it's a lack of "some thing" that keeps us ill.

Please-- open your hearts- know that we all know that this is a tough journey-- and save the religion for your local friends-- share your journey to wellness-- and your sorrows -- and keep a balance.

We know that often it is what is not said-- but what is held in your heart that allows us to be here to discuss sarcoidosis. It is here where we can laugh and cry and yell and fight our way through our disrupted relationships, marriages, job losses, financial in-securities- - and find ways to cope-- and a place to share these issues.

I share this wth all of you because we do have members that refuse to post because of such a strong passionate group of people that mean well-- and yet are misunderstood when they insist on telling us that faith is what gets them through.

Faith, a dose of an immunosuppressant, a dose of an antidepressant, a dose of hugs and laughter and a dose of tears- are all necessary.

My heart goes out to all of you, and all that each of you bring to this group-- and we truly appreciate the prayers-- so please-- keep some perspective and balance.

Sincerely,

Tracie

NS Co-owner/moderator

[Guest guest]

My faith has helped me get through the first year of this sh_t. An interesting paper regarding this issue is Pascal's Dilemma

From: tracie feldhaus <tiodaat2001@ yahoo.com>Subject: FaithTo: neurosarcoidosis@ yahoogroups. comCc: NSMods-owner@ yahoogroups. comDate: Tuesday, February 16, 2010, 10:54 PM

Once again, I find myself being the "heavy;" and having to address the issue of faith and religious posts.

There is not a member on this group that doesn't have some form of faith-- a belief that they can find a way to live with sarcoidosis and all that it entails. Faith even as small as a mustard seed. Sometimes that is all we have.

Will faith alone heal us? Probably not. That is why we are here to share the journey of what we have learned in treatment options, medication options, diet, exercise, coping skills, and more.

Is it a lack of faith that keeps us sick? Absolutely not. Is it the name of my religion, or yours? Is yours better than mine? Do I need to be told and have those who believe that their faith is better than mine tell me over and over that it is their faith that will heal me. Absolutely not.

As a woman of faith-- and a woman with a wonderful, powerful spiritual side that guides me in my research and sharing of this journey-- I know how powerful faith can be. I also know that it can scare alot of people away.

You may not understand this-- but when you are dealing with the issues of a chronic illness-- and where our medical science doesn't even know how this illness begins, and has no way to cure us-- we - even those of us with faith-- can be so very pissed at god-- or a higher power.

We can all go to our local church or synagogue, or chapel or creek-- and have communion with other people of like minds. We can easily get all the support we need in the manner of our faith.

When it comes to living with sarcoidosis- - we have ten or so support groups-- primarily online. Very few communties have "live" group meetings. So we searched and found this group.

The owners and moderators (also very much woman of faith) all want this forum to be a place where regardless of faith-- you can be supported in learning to live with sarcoidosis.

This is an international --worldwide- globally accessible group. Anyone can join. No one will ask you what you believe in-- who you believe in, or what political party you belong to. We don't want to know! None of that will help us find better treatment for sarcoidosis.

It is this goal in mind-- that we again ask that you remember that this is not a forum to use as a testimony to your faith. We're glad you have faith to lean on-- it's important that we not lose faith-- and that we have access without judgement where we can share treatment options and ideas.

It takes a huge heart to hold this-- to stay strong when even our faith or religious background is on the edge of telling us that it's a lack of "some thing" that keeps us ill.

Please-- open your hearts- know that we all know that this is a tough journey-- and save the religion for your local friends-- share your journey to wellness-- and your sorrows -- and keep a balance.

We know that often it is what is not said-- but what is held in your heart that allows us to be here to discuss sarcoidosis. It is here where we can laugh and cry and yell and fight our way through our disrupted relationships, marriages, job losses, financial in-securities- - and find ways to cope-- and a place to share these issues.

I share this wth all of you because we do have members that refuse to post because of such a strong passionate group of people that mean well-- and yet are misunderstood when they insist on telling us that faith is what gets them through.

Faith, a dose of an immunosuppressant, a dose of an antidepressant, a dose of hugs and laughter and a dose of tears- are all necessary.

My heart goes out to all of you, and all that each of you bring to this group-- and we truly appreciate the prayers-- so please-- keep some perspective and balance.

Sincerely,

Tracie

NS Co-owner/moderator

[Guest guest]

I too agree that it has been faith that has gotten me through while tending to & the awfulness of this illness. There are times I want to yell and scream about how this has ruined my life and hers and then I remember that there are those who are a lot worse off than I and who are suffering more and I hang onto my Faith that I can continue to do what is needed to make as well as she can be and as comfortable. Matt

From: tracie feldhaus <tiodaat2001@ yahoo.com>Subject: FaithTo: neurosarcoidosis@ yahoogroups. comCc: NSMods-owner@ yahoogroups. comDate: Tuesday, February 16, 2010, 10:54 PM

Once again, I find myself being the "heavy;" and having to address the issue of faith and religious posts.

There is not a member on this group that doesn't have some form of faith-- a belief that they can find a way to live with sarcoidosis and all that it entails. Faith even as small as a mustard seed. Sometimes that is all we have.

Will faith alone heal us? Probably not. That is why we are here to share the journey of what we have learned in treatment options, medication options, diet, exercise, coping skills, and more.

Is it a lack of faith that keeps us sick? Absolutely not. Is it the name of my religion, or yours? Is yours better than mine? Do I need to be told and have those who believe that their faith is better than mine tell me over and over that it is their faith that will heal me. Absolutely not.

As a woman of faith-- and a woman with a wonderful, powerful spiritual side that guides me in my research and sharing of this journey-- I know how powerful faith can be. I also know that it can scare alot of people away.

You may not understand this-- but when you are dealing with the issues of a chronic illness-- and where our medical science doesn't even know how this illness begins, and has no way to cure us-- we - even those of us with faith-- can be so very pissed at god-- or a higher power.

We can all go to our local church or synagogue, or chapel or creek-- and have communion with other people of like minds. We can easily get all the support we need in the manner of our faith.

When it comes to living with sarcoidosis- - we have ten or so support groups-- primarily online. Very few communties have "live" group meetings. So we searched and found this group.

The owners and moderators (also very much woman of faith) all want this forum to be a place where regardless of faith-- you can be supported in learning to live with sarcoidosis.

This is an international --worldwide- globally accessible group. Anyone can join. No one will ask you what you believe in-- who you believe in, or what political party you belong to. We don't want to know! None of that will help us find better treatment for sarcoidosis.

It is this goal in mind-- that we again ask that you remember that this is not a forum to use as a testimony to your faith. We're glad you have faith to lean on-- it's important that we not lose faith-- and that we have access without judgement where we can share treatment options and ideas.

It takes a huge heart to hold this-- to stay strong when even our faith or religious background is on the edge of telling us that it's a lack of "some thing" that keeps us ill.

Please-- open your hearts- know that we all know that this is a tough journey-- and save the religion for your local friends-- share your journey to wellness-- and your sorrows -- and keep a balance.

We know that often it is what is not said-- but what is held in your heart that allows us to be here to discuss sarcoidosis. It is here where we can laugh and cry and yell and fight our way through our disrupted relationships, marriages, job losses, financial in-securities- - and find ways to cope-- and a place to share these issues.

I share this wth all of you because we do have members that refuse to post because of such a strong passionate group of people that mean well-- and yet are misunderstood when they insist on telling us that faith is what gets them through.

Faith, a dose of an immunosuppressant, a dose of an antidepressant, a dose of hugs and laughter and a dose of tears- are all necessary.

My heart goes out to all of you, and all that each of you bring to this group-- and we truly appreciate the prayers-- so please-- keep some perspective and balance.

Sincerely,

Tracie

NS Co-owner/moderator

[Guest guest]



You are a good man and is a lucky lady. God bless you for your patients with Jenney. This monster is so hard to deal with.

Keep the faith Matt.

Jackie

FaithTo: neurosarcoidosis@ yahoogroups. comCc: NSMods-owner@ yahoogroups. comDate: Tuesday, February 16, 2010, 10:54 PM

Once again, I find myself being the "heavy;" and having to address the issue of faith and religious posts.

There is not a member on this group that doesn't have some form of faith-- a belief that they can find a way to live with sarcoidosis and all that it entails. Faith even as small as a mustard seed. Sometimes that is all we have.

Will faith alone heal us? Probably not. That is why we are here to share the journey of what we have learned in treatment options, medication options, diet, exercise, coping skills, and more.

Is it a lack of faith that keeps us sick? Absolutely not. Is it the name of my religion, or yours? Is yours better than mine? Do I need to be told and have those who believe that their faith is better than mine tell me over and over that it is their faith that will heal me. Absolutely not.

As a woman of faith-- and a woman with a wonderful, powerful spiritual side that guides me in my research and sharing of this journey-- I know how powerful faith can be. I also know that it can scare alot of people away.

You may not understand this-- but when you are dealing with the issues of a chronic illness-- and where our medical science doesn't even know how this illness begins, and has no way to cure us-- we - even those of us with faith-- can be so very pissed at god-- or a higher power.

We can all go to our local church or synagogue, or chapel or creek-- and have communion with other people of like minds. We can easily get all the support we need in the manner of our faith.

When it comes to living with sarcoidosis- - we have ten or so support groups-- primarily online. Very few communties have "live" group meetings. So we searched and found this group.

The owners and moderators (also very much woman of faith) all want this forum to be a place where regardless of faith-- you can be supported in learning to live with sarcoidosis.

This is an international --worldwide- globally accessible group. Anyone can join. No one will ask you what you believe in-- who you believe in, or what political party you belong to. We don't want to know! None of that will help us find better treatment for sarcoidosis.

It is this goal in mind-- that we again ask that you remember that this is not a forum to use as a testimony to your faith. We're glad you have faith to lean on-- it's important that we not lose faith-- and that we have access without judgement where we can share treatment options and ideas.

It takes a huge heart to hold this-- to stay strong when even our faith or religious background is on the edge of telling us that it's a lack of "some thing" that keeps us ill.

Please-- open your hearts- know that we all know that this is a tough journey-- and save the religion for your local friends-- share your journey to wellness-- and your sorrows -- and keep a balance.

We know that often it is what is not said-- but what is held in your heart that allows us to be here to discuss sarcoidosis. It is here where we can laugh and cry and yell and fight our way through our disrupted relationships, marriages, job losses, financial in-securities- - and find ways to cope-- and a place to share these issues.

I share this wth all of you because we do have members that refuse to post because of such a strong passionate group of people that mean well-- and yet are misunderstood when they insist on telling us that faith is what gets them through.

Faith, a dose of an immunosuppressant, a dose of an antidepressant, a dose of hugs and laughter and a dose of tears- are all necessary.

My heart goes out to all of you, and all that each of you bring to this group-- and we truly appreciate the prayers-- so please-- keep some perspective and balance.

Sincerely,

Tracie

NS Co-owner/moderator

[Guest guest]



You have my Prayers. Faith is so important with this monster.

Keep the Faith

Jackie

FaithTo: neurosarcoidosis@ yahoogroups. comCc: NSMods-owner@ yahoogroups. comDate: Tuesday, February 16, 2010, 10:54 PM

Once again, I find myself being the "heavy;" and having to address the issue of faith and religious posts.

There is not a member on this group that doesn't have some form of faith-- a belief that they can find a way to live with sarcoidosis and all that it entails. Faith even as small as a mustard seed. Sometimes that is all we have.

Will faith alone heal us? Probably not. That is why we are here to share the journey of what we have learned in treatment options, medication options, diet, exercise, coping skills, and more.

Is it a lack of faith that keeps us sick? Absolutely not. Is it the name of my religion, or yours? Is yours better than mine? Do I need to be told and have those who believe that their faith is better than mine tell me over and over that it is their faith that will heal me. Absolutely not.

As a woman of faith-- and a woman with a wonderful, powerful spiritual side that guides me in my research and sharing of this journey-- I know how powerful faith can be. I also know that it can scare alot of people away.

You may not understand this-- but when you are dealing with the issues of a chronic illness-- and where our medical science doesn't even know how this illness begins, and has no way to cure us-- we - even those of us with faith-- can be so very pissed at god-- or a higher power.

We can all go to our local church or synagogue, or chapel or creek-- and have communion with other people of like minds. We can easily get all the support we need in the manner of our faith.

When it comes to living with sarcoidosis- - we have ten or so support groups-- primarily online. Very few communties have "live" group meetings. So we searched and found this group.

The owners and moderators (also very much woman of faith) all want this forum to be a place where regardless of faith-- you can be supported in learning to live with sarcoidosis.

This is an international --worldwide- globally accessible group. Anyone can join. No one will ask you what you believe in-- who you believe in, or what political party you belong to. We don't want to know! None of that will help us find better treatment for sarcoidosis.

It is this goal in mind-- that we again ask that you remember that this is not a forum to use as a testimony to your faith. We're glad you have faith to lean on-- it's important that we not lose faith-- and that we have access without judgement where we can share treatment options and ideas.

It takes a huge heart to hold this-- to stay strong when even our faith or religious background is on the edge of telling us that it's a lack of "some thing" that keeps us ill.

Please-- open your hearts- know that we all know that this is a tough journey-- and save the religion for your local friends-- share your journey to wellness-- and your sorrows -- and keep a balance.

We know that often it is what is not said-- but what is held in your heart that allows us to be here to discuss sarcoidosis. It is here where we can laugh and cry and yell and fight our way through our disrupted relationships, marriages, job losses, financial in-securities- - and find ways to cope-- and a place to share these issues.

I share this wth all of you because we do have members that refuse to post because of such a strong passionate group of people that mean well-- and yet are misunderstood when they insist on telling us that faith is what gets them through.

Faith, a dose of an immunosuppressant, a dose of an antidepressant, a dose of hugs and laughter and a dose of tears- are all necessary.

My heart goes out to all of you, and all that each of you bring to this group-- and we truly appreciate the prayers-- so please-- keep some perspective and balance.

Sincerely,

Tracie

NS Co-owner/moderator

[Guest guest]

thank you

To: Neurosarcoidosis Sent: Wed, February 17, 2010 4:54:02 AMSubject: Re: Faith

Tracie, I really appreciate what you spoke of regarding faith issues. There is no need for you to apologize; I too believe that our FAITH is what gets us through these tough times. Anyone who does not like your comments is always able to leave. But I believe All support your thoughts and wish to remain ... that is, except ONE!! God bless you and stay well!

Always,

L. -Maye, Baltimore MD

From: June Heileman <junebug_4647@ yahoo.com>To: Neurosarcoidosis@ yahoogroups. comSent: Tue, February 16, 2010 11:51:20 PMSubject: Re: Faith

A thousand apologies, if I have offended anyone, in expressing what I believe in terms of my religion. My intentions were not to "piss-off" anyone, or make anyone feel akward! Nor am I suggesting that my religion is better than others or lack of faith made us sick. I can see where this is going, therefore, I will end it here. Just know I have the up most respect for the group and will abide by your request(s), by keeping things in perspective and balance.

From: tracie feldhaus <tiodaat2001@ yahoo.com>Subject: FaithTo: neurosarcoidosis@ yahoogroups. comCc: NSMods-owner@ yahoogroups. comDate: Tuesday, February 16, 2010, 10:54 PM

Once again, I find myself being the "heavy;" and having to address the issue of faith and religious posts.

There is not a member on this group that doesn't have some form of faith-- a belief that they can find a way to live with sarcoidosis and all that it entails. Faith even as small as a mustard seed. Sometimes that is all we have.

Will faith alone heal us? Probably not. That is why we are here to share the journey of what we have learned in treatment options, medication options, diet, exercise, coping skills, and more.

Is it a lack of faith that keeps us sick? Absolutely not. Is it the name of my religion, or yours? Is yours better than mine? Do I need to be told and have those who believe that their faith is better than mine tell me over and over that it is their faith that will heal me. Absolutely not.

As a woman of faith-- and a woman with a wonderful, powerful spiritual side that guides me in my research and sharing of this journey-- I know how powerful faith can be. I also know that it can scare alot of people away.

You may not understand this-- but when you are dealing with the issues of a chronic illness-- and where our medical science doesn't even know how this illness begins, and has no way to cure us-- we - even those of us with faith-- can be so very pissed at god-- or a higher power.

We can all go to our local church or synagogue, or chapel or creek-- and have communion with other people of like minds. We can easily get all the support we need in the manner of our faith.

When it comes to living with sarcoidosis- - we have ten or so support groups-- primarily online. Very few communties have "live" group meetings. So we searched and found this group.

The owners and moderators (also very much woman of faith) all want this forum to be a place where regardless of faith-- you can be supported in learning to live with sarcoidosis.

This is an international --worldwide- globally accessible group. Anyone can join. No one will ask you what you believe in-- who you believe in, or what political party you belong to. We don't want to know! None of that will help us find better treatment for sarcoidosis.

It is this goal in mind-- that we again ask that you remember that this is not a forum to use as a testimony to your faith. We're glad you have faith to lean on-- it's important that we not lose faith-- and that we have access without judgement where we can share treatment options and ideas.

It takes a huge heart to hold this-- to stay strong when even our faith or religious background is on the edge of telling us that it's a lack of "some thing" that keeps us ill.

Please-- open your hearts- know that we all know that this is a tough journey-- and save the religion for your local friends-- share your journey to wellness-- and your sorrows -- and keep a balance.

We know that often it is what is not said-- but what is held in your heart that allows us to be here to discuss sarcoidosis. It is here where we can laugh and cry and yell and fight our way through our disrupted relationships, marriages, job losses, financial in-securities- - and find ways to cope-- and a place to share these issues.

I share this wth all of you because we do have members that refuse to post because of such a strong passionate group of people that mean well-- and yet are misunderstood when they insist on telling us that faith is what gets them through.

Faith, a dose of an immunosuppressant, a dose of an antidepressant, a dose of hugs and laughter and a dose of tears- are all necessary.

My heart goes out to all of you, and all that each of you bring to this group-- and we truly appreciate the prayers-- so please-- keep some perspective and balance.

Sincerely,

Tracie

NS Co-owner/moderator