Dances with DaVinci

I am sure I must be about the last person on the planet to finally read The DaVinci Code by Dan Brown. Nonetheless, I am about half-way through and I LOVE IT!

Booklovers will relate to this...ever try to pace yourself and read a book slower, bit by bit, so that you are not finished too soon? This novel is like good chocolate and very hard to put down. I find myself highlighting all sorts of passages to do some research into later. The DaVinci code has sparked my curiosity and pushed me to think more about the Renaissance Masters as well as biblical passages. To me, an excellent novel is one that entertains as well as educates. Boy, does this one fit the bill. Oh, I know. I realize it is fiction, but this guy really knows his stuff.

I have always taken the stance that the bible is not to be taken literally and that what you read has been edited and skewed by a male viewpoint and often the Catholic church. I can't say for all books of religion, but I suspect nearly all have been edited with a slant to perpetuate male supremacy over women. Yes, Virginia, I have read the bible cover to cover, old and new testatments. I have also read most of The Book of Mormons. If you know me, you are aware I am not a fan of organized religion, and that I am pretty much agnostic. I did not say atheist, but to the very religious - not any difference. Here in the bible belt, my point of view is not one that is popular. This may be America, but in the South, Freedom of Religion has not hit the best seller shelf. Everyone assumes you must be a Christian. If you were to say that I believe in kindness and gentleness, then you can call me Christian. If you say that I believe in giving to the poor and helping those in need, then you can call me Christian. And, if you say that I believe each person is a unique soul with an age old connection to the universe, then you can call me Christian. But, if you tell me I must believe the bible is the final word and that I must be born again with a baptism, that all who do not perish in Hell; then call me heathen.

So, if you are one of those folks who are offended by this train of thought, then the DaVinci Code would not be your cup of communion wine. But, if you like to explore other realms of religious possibilities, if you have an open, inquisitive mind and loved Inherit the Wind, then by all means jump in ... the water is deep, but oh so clear!