Since you, Madeline, and others, are relatively new to USMB, as I, I will state my beliefs again.
I am an agnostic. That is why I am not a Christian. And while I live a Buddha like lifestyle, I am not a Buddhist, for I do not believe in an afterlife. I also do not wish to be bound by the constraints of marriage[ again ] or religion. I live instead, a Christian-like or Buddha-like existence and am very happy with a kind and compassionate nature. I live a moral life. Heaven and hell are right here on earth, and you will experience them as often as your choices take you there.
I believe in the universal law of cause and effect--the empowering conviction that we all ultimately direct our own lives.
Well now, this is fascinating. I agree with you -- to a point. But what could European Jews have done to warrant the Death Camps? Or Russians, to "attract" Stalin?
I do not speak to the power of despots or the desperation of innocent people.