Mets and Book

The Mets have fought themselves out of a big hole to be in the wild card race at the end of the first half. 

They have one of the easier schedules in the second half. The person who was supposed to be their best pitcher should be back soon. It's no gimme, especially with the Diamondbacks now breathing down their necks. But, why not? 

I thought that they had a reasonable shot at the beginning of the season with a good line-up and just enough pitching. The line-up started poorly. It shifted into gear with the help of a few key additions (OMG!). 

The rotation did badly. They are suddenly doing well, with multiple seven-inning games. The pen is still a problem (Houser has suddenly had a couple bad performances) but a new pick-up and few arms are reliable. They need more. Another reliever and an OF bat would be helpful. 

2024 was in my eyes supposed to be a development year with some chance of a wild card spot. How they have been playing, it would be disappointing if they don't get it. Once they do, it's house money time.

BTW, I'm just waiting for the Astros to pass the fairly middling Seattle Mariners in the NL West. Not quite there yet.  

I might eventually post an extended discussion that is inspired by this book. The book covers the usual suspects along with Yoruba religions (Santeria is an offshoot) with the "three ways" of China and atheism included.  

The book suggests various definitions of religion. One basic rule would be that each religion sees a problem, a solution, a path, and people who are guides on the path. Atheism is quickly examined; the other chapters are around 35 pages each. So, not comprehensive, but you get a good general sense of Hinduism, Confucianism, and other religions.  

The title also references the author's argument that there is not just one God that is expressed differently. People have strongly different ideas of what God entails. These differences matter in the real world. It's best to understand this, even if the other path seems idealistic and charming.

A couple of additional bits. The author argues not everyone who is a member of a religion is a "believer."  Religion can often be about a community or practices. Jews can be atheists.  Also, "sin" is largely a Christian concept. Muslims do not believe in original sin. Jews have some concept of sin but original sin is not a general Jewish belief.  

I continue to think religion and belief in God is a form of poetic metaphor for our concerns as humans. The overall conceit of Jesus dying for our sins to me is rather ridiculous and primitive. Eastern religion has some interesting philosophies. OTOH, some of the mystical stuff, including reincarnation, is not for me. I am also with the "friendly" atheists. 

Some liberals look at how conservatives use religion and treat it with disdain. I think we should have more empathy for the billions who have religious beliefs. Plus, again, I do not think they all are treating their beliefs quite as literally as some people think. And, there are a lot of non-assholes among them. 

Religion continues to be a fascinating and fundamental part of humanity.