So I’ve recently watched a couple documentaries on Scientology: Going Clear, and Leah Remini’s 8-part series, Scientology and the Aftermath.

Wow. If you want your minds blown, give them a watch…I included the links.

Let me begin by saying, I’m not here to bash anyone’s beliefs. I am all for respect and inclusivity. But I was just astounded at the level of oppression and corruption in that “religious” organization (as depicted in these exposés).
And it stuck with me all weekend. I couldn’t stop thinking about those poor people trapped in that culture of repression.
What made them stay in a dire situation? Why did they put up with the mind games and the systematic oppression?
And the more I thought about it, I realized that scientology is exactly like being trapped in an eating disorder.
Scientologists are fed dogma that they must protect scientology at any cost – including their policy of disconnection – where one cuts off any and all communication with a declared “Suppressive Person,” (SP)…including family members and loved ones.
They spend hundreds of thousands of dollars in classes, materials, and “auditing” to work their way up “The Bridge” to the highest level of spiritual awareness.
Members are encouraged to tattle, or submit “Knowledge Reports” on their loved ones if they suspect that they are questioning their “faith” or have been looking up “anti-Scientology” material online. They are then met with penalties and punishments.
But the biggest take away was that this “religion” is really an insular system of belief that has build an iron-clad fortress, cut off from all other view points or voices of reason, where no new or opposing information comes in, and instead, circulates its own “truth,” (publications and other propaganda) thereby forcing its members to submit to their perpetuating culture of suppression.
That is, for all of you non-eating-disorder-survivors, exactly what it is like to live with an eating disorder. You isolate yourself from all “voices of reason” – cutting yourself off from family and loved ones, and instead cling to the lies in your head being fed to you by the eating disorder.
Lies like: “You’re not good enough.” “You have to be perfect to be loved.” “You’re a burden.” “You deserve this tortured existence.”
You’re living to protect the eating disorder. And all the while, it is slowly killing you, and robbing you of your time, money, dreams, relationships, future, hobbies…robbing you of life…all to obtain that ultimate “goal weight.” ((Sound like “The Bridge” much??))

Why does one remain in that oppressive existence?
Because they are literally trapped.
You stop thinking for yourself, and eventually start believing the lies to be truth.
Getting out of my anorexia, ten years ago…I thank God everyday for breaking through that iron fortress that I had created for myself.
It took Him, lifting me out of that bunker of hell where I was being buried alive. Because without His help, I would have just let it destroy me. And it almost did.

I think about how people get into such a clearly destructive cult-like religion in the first place. I mean, Tom Cruise, Leah Remini, John Travolta – these people aren’t stupid. How did they fall into the trap?
And just like an eating disorder, it starts off innocently enough. Standing for values like, bettering the earth, becoming more spiritually aware, working on self-improvement — those are values that anyone can get behind.
Just like my anorexia, it started out giving up sweets for Lent one year. Then it was healthy eating. Then it was an unyielding obsession with calories and exercise. And then the next thing you know you’re 78 pounds with brittle bones and a heart that’s clinging on for dear life.
When you’re trapped in the cycle of oppression, believing the lies, and embracing the abuse, freedom is simply unimaginable. I couldn’t fathom what a life without ED would be like. What my potential could be. The abuse I was self-inflicting in my head with the lies and the negative self-talk became my safety. It became all that I knew. My comfort. My “normal.”
And as sad as it is to think about, that’s what it is for those poor people in scientology.

And you know, I could sit here and make fun of their beliefs about aliens and reincarnation and jab that their founder was a science-fiction writer by trade. But that would negate the suffering that these people are enduring.
Because you know what, the lies I believed in my head are just as outrageous. (Hello, an emaciated girl thinking she’s fat??) So to belittle the lies as “stupid” or “far-fetched” is to disregard and discredit the agony I endured believing them — almost to the point of death.
I don’t know what the outcome of this post is supposed to be.
I just felt this strange kinship, watching these enthralling documentaries.
I guess hearing about this system of oppression sparked in me a common bond, as one former oppress-ee to another.

Give it a watch.
It will astound you that this outrageous belief system is still in existence today, in 2017.
________________________________________________________________
Stay Connected!
@beauty.beyond.bones – Instagram
A big thank you to my new sponsor, BetterHelp Online Therapy. Speak with an online therapist. Or check out content about eating disorders from BetterHelp.
Please check out my affiliate partners! Doing so helps you, and it helps me 🙂 Amazon, Reebok, NatureBox, Sunbasket, WPengine Webhosting, Warby Parker, Masterclass
Thank you for considering supporting BBB on Patreon! You make this blog possible 🙂



I appreciate your describing anorexia as a form of toxic relationship. It helps me understand it better. The parallel to Scientology seems accurate, as would a comparison to someone married to an abuser whose thinking gets similarly twisted.
LikeLiked by 1 person
thanks so much Elizabeth. Yeah, it is definitely an unhealthy relationship, and a battle you wage in your mind. thanks for sharing your thought and taking the time to read!! big hugs xox
LikeLiked by 2 people
✌💗
LikeLike
thanks friend. peace and love to you too! 🙂 hehe hugs xox
LikeLiked by 1 person
💫
LikeLiked by 1 person
✨☀️💛☀️✨
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’ve watched some documentaries as well… That’s scary how people fall into this ‘religion’ and they cannot get out of it for years and years.
LikeLike
thanks friend. yeah it’s really sad. breaks my heart. The documentaries were really well done. check them out if you have a free couple hours 🙂 hugs xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yay first, and how cool is that. This is the first time it’s ever happened to me. I’m smiling from ear-to-ear. Because of this feeling I think I deserve to insert an emoji here now 😄. On to the topic at hand Scientology the eating disorder of religion. I don’t know much about scientology nor do I care to know anything about scientology because Jesus is good enough for me he always was and he always will be. So take that Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes. highest point of spiritual awareness what a weird phrase but I would say that these rich scientogists hope that by gaining knowledge they can gain a higher place in heaven. Sounds familiar to a story I once heard about a man who thought his college degrees would earn him a higher place in heaven because of the amount of intelligence he acquired throughout his life. However we know this is not true at all because Saul of Tarsus was a very educated man but when he came to Jesus he said his education meant nothing and didn’t count it as being Worthy of anything. Listen to the wise words of Gamaliel. This is where men have it wrong and they had it wrong the entire time they’ve been in existence. What do I mean by what I mean this, man thinks that by acquiring such knowledge they can be greater than their creator it’s the same spirit of Lucifer and he was cast out of heaven for his pride and ego. Now the real way for people to experience Christ the way God wants them to is to read the word and to have the word drop Into the Heart thus changing the mind is the word that drops into the heart and abstaining from all the sinful Deeds one did in the past life and if they repent they can come to know the Lord and he can wash them clean as only never sinned. Put people of this generation are carried to and fro with every sound wind of Doctrine by the deceits of men. Read 2nd Timothy and also read Ephesians chapter 3 and four.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for this A. Yeah, that’s a powerful thing to remember — Jesus is the way 🙂 thanks for stopping by. big hugs xox
LikeLiked by 2 people
Anytime flowers
LikeLike
🙂 xoxo
LikeLike
I actually can’t believe you watched that documentary if I did I would have to take a shower 5 times over just to get that kind of stench off me. I get it you were curious but you have to know that you’re brighter than most scientologists. The reason why is because you do everything with a very big heart for everyone else. Become a servant to others because Christ served you first that is what I’ve noticed about you recent years what I make a fair assumption on this Carolyn is Anthony right at all? I don’t know I mean you and I are on two different education systems UC Fahrenheit I say degrees. You say tomata I say tomato. We are Lost in Translation. Boy am I glad to have me read Webster by my side to unite our two languages of hey and holla let’s not forget bonjour while we are at it two okay I’m going to shut up now I don’t know why I have rambled on I guess I like to make you laugh. It’s better than standing at the bottom of your balcony reciting sonnets. Hahahaha that’s a job for Leo.
LikeLike
oh gosh, yeah…bit of a black hole on netflix
LikeLike
Netflix like bad journalism is a double-edged sword.
LikeLike
Touché
LikeLike
Hey Carolyn I wanted to ask you something personal a little while ago I bought a year ago I started to read your blog and at first I read it because I liked how you wore a big hat. I also started to read it because well just being honest you’re pretty however something and caught my attention and it wasn’t just your face. You had said that while you were going through all your trials you went to see people of faith and what caught my attention was Faith Healers? Did I have that right did I read it right? You went to see a faith healer? If this is true I’m curious as to where you found this person. I know Jesus heals man doesn’t although man tries to buy the knowledge that God gives him through becoming a medical doctor or a scientist. Doctors are great but they can only do so much. That’s when people have to reach for Jesus.
LikeLike
Yep I did. Through my naturopath.
LikeLike
I see was it by chance in the Ohio area or in New York?
LikeLike
Ohio
LikeLike
Yep I know the guy you’re talking about good guy I love him like my father he got me saved 3 years ago.
LikeLike
Wow!
LikeLike
Don’t you read my emails? As it relates to you now I’m very happy to have known you as a friend. And I’m extremely proud of the courage that you displayed it then and I’m extremely proud of the courage you display even now writing about the impact that God has left upon your life. You miss are very special. The people that knows to get battled are the one with soft hearts and those soft hearts and very important because they can accept the gospel really easy.. you’re a fantastic person Carolyn thank you for writing. I’m sure God is really proud of what you have accomplished through him by means of this blog. I can also see this as just the beginning… Be well be happy do not fear do not worry be strong and of a good courage.
LikeLike
Thank you ❤
LikeLike
You’re welcome.
LikeLike
✨☀️💛☀️✨
LikeLike
Are you members of the church?
LikeLike
i’m catholic.
LikeLike
Oh. The faith healer was Catholic?
LikeLike
No. It was just a church healing service. Nothing weird. 🙂
LikeLike
Hmm sorry to ask where in Ohio did this take place? I think your talking about a church I know well.
LikeLike
I think it was actually in Indiana
LikeLike
I see. Check out Ohio some time.
LikeLike
ok
LikeLike
You’re from there so it should be rather easy when you come home for visits however for me to come from Canada I have to travel 68 hours by car and 16 hours by bus but I do it because I love Jesus that much
LikeLike
wow that’s a long time
LikeLike
Carolyn my name is Anthony and I’m going to be honest with you I may not have a lot and I certainly wasn’t given a lot of love growing up but what I have now I count most dear. I may not be rich in the world’s eyes but I’m reaching the faith in Jesus Christ knowing that he is capable of everything he is not weak. That being said because I didn’t get a lot of love growing up I now have an overabundance of of more than I could ever ask for. That is why I email you periodically Because I would like to encourage you to keep going I would like to encourage you to keep going in studying but the only way to do that is to get off the black hole of Netflix. Seriously Carolyn your blog is meant a tremendous amount to me and I’m sure I’m not the only one to say that. I think you’re a terrific person. I’m not just saying that also because you voted for Trump which I think is a great start to 2016 – 2017 but the only reason I talk to you this way is because I feel comfortable and talking to you this way I have developed quite a bond with you. You’re my friend and I hope I’m worthy to be your friend as well. In fact I tried it have a friendly competition with you matching you per blog post. Your words inspire me to sit at the feet of Jesus every day. 😐😇
LikeLike
Honestly, I don’t remember. I was in my ulcerative colitis flare, and I was so incredibly sick. That whole time period is a fog. the intense physical pain i was in made me kind of have a mental block on it all. It was just a healing church service. No one particular “guy.” I think it was in Eastern Indiana, but I could be wrong.
LikeLike
Once
LikeLike
Scientology is repulsive to me as well, and the similarity you draw between it and ED are appropriate. I could come to the same ones with depression. This is what really impacted me as a pastoral care giver.
“So to belittle the lies as “stupid” or “far-fetched” is to disregard and discredit the agony I endured believing them…”
As we practice the ministry of presence with those who fight ED and depression we must never invalidate or negate the other’s perspective.
That which is denied creates death as you are painfully aware of.
That is all from Nashville. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks so much Daniel. I really appreciate hearing your thoughts. you’re so right, we must love the person and realize that we all are fighting lies to one degree or another. Thanks for stopping by. hugs xo
LikeLike
Thank you for your wise post. I would like to expand the idea of it being like an eating disorder to being abuse. Abuse is a multi-layered animal that can be something done to another (physical, psychological or emotional abuse) or something that one does to themselves (drug abuse, alcohol abuse, food abuse). The end result of all of these things is the same: the person who is being abused is unable to hear the voices of reason. Perhaps they fell unworthy of something better or perhaps they feel that these actions are the only way to the life they see for themselves. Either way, the abuse is a form of “golden calf” – a God replacement that becomes more and more corrupt with time and other influences.
LikeLike
Thanks so much for sharing this powerful perspective. That’s really profound insight. big hugs to you x
LikeLike
This parallel makes sense!!!
LikeLike
thanks so much friend. big hugs xox
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’ve watched them a year or so ago, and your analysis is correct, eating disorder fits it perfectly.
Sadly, this is not the only “religion” of this type, nor is it anything new, just look at Jonestown and the Branch Davidian’s. History is replete with similar groups, and tend to draw in the same type of person – those having an inward need for someone to control them, give them direction, tell them they are loved and needed.
LikeLike
Thanks so much for sharing this. yeah, sadly, you’re right. Oppression is unfortunately not new. thanks for stopping by. big hugs xo
LikeLike
The enemies lies are very subtle. Isolation used as a tool. Praying for lost is important. Thanks for your compassion.
LikeLike
You’re so right – isolation is a powerful tool indeed. yes. we’ve gotta keep them in our prayers. big hugs xox
LikeLike
I thing Scientology is a cult and am glad it is being shown for what it is. I think Lisa and her program is a brave step for her to take.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks so much, I agree – I’m glad that she’s trying to help those who are trapped and shed light on what it really is. thanks for stopping by. big hugs xo
LikeLike
Thank you for this post. I enjoyed your comparison although I must admit I felt a twinge when I saw one peanut kicking the other peanut 🙂
LikeLike
hahah thanks so much Walt. Yeah, that’s one of my personal meme favorites about ED 🙂 ((And reveals how I really feel about that time in my life 🙂 )) haha hugs xox
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for the hugs 🙂
LikeLike
✨☀️💛☀️✨
LikeLike
I am glad that you wrote this. I never thought of the comparison between the anorexia sufferers I knew and this ‘trapped’ experience by those poor folks in Scientology. it makes perfect sense. I am reminded of the images of the circus or laboratory animals when rescued and exposed to a “real” environment – how hesitant and timid they are. But then they grow to thrive in the freedom. The God of our Bible wants to give us freedom, not repression and isolation. Freedom to thrive, love and live. Or freedom to walk away.
LikeLiked by 1 person
thank you so much for this powerful response. Yeah, my heart goes out to them, who are trapped. Yes, He wants us to have life to the full!! thanks for stopping by! hugs xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Your restrained tone is respectable.
Scientology is a pretty obvious money scam for its members once you see how things are done, and it’s locked in place by fear. Ironically, it’s everything people often claim Christianity to be, and while a few churches out there might be oppressive in that fashion, practically all of Scientology practices that tone. Every time people level abuses at Christianity – greedy, oppressive, what have you – it seems that the accusations lie better with a different religion. Christianity is freedom.
LikeLike
thanks so much Brandon. Yeah, they had a huge celebration when the IRS granted them tax exemption. Red flag?? Thanks for your thoughts — cheers for His freedom!! hugs xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
L. Ron Hubbard actually began scientology as a scam operation so he could get laid and avoid paying taxes. Whereas other religions began as people coming to a set of ideas and beliefs they were compelled to share, scientology is at its core a business. Unfortunately, it survived him and subsequent CEOs have turned it into a multi-billion dollar outfit that exists to reel in the vulnerable and fleece them. Once you get to Tom Cruise’s level of involvement, you are let in on the con job and become a willing and active participant in it. There’s no way he doesn’t know scientology for exactly what it always has been.
LikeLike
Thanks for sharing your thoughts Michael. Very true-a business indeed. Great food for thought. Thanks 🙂 Hugs and love xox
LikeLike
As always, thanks for your thoughts. Don’t allow your past to define you. You have a new life, looking forward.
LikeLike
Thanks Steve. Yes! New life indeed. Hugs and love xox
LikeLike
Love the post! I have to say I’ve spent much time looking into the background of Scientology. I grew up with a guy whose family were non-practicing Scientologists. They took me to a meeting here and there and I fled from it. 20 years later I’ve asked people, What’s the difference between Mormonism and Scientology? The name.
Like you, my purpose is never to discredit someone else’s beliefs, simply to expose the elements that pose a threat to healthy religious growth. I come from a background (as you know after reading some of my posts) that have the elitist, secluded and ‘us only’ mentality and its unhealthy, unbalanced and dangerous. Thank you for having the courage to share this story!
I’ve enjoyed all of your stories especially about your mother. God Bless your day,
LikeLike
Thanks so much. Yeah that’s very wise! And thanks for that – I’m going back to Ohio on Wednesday so there will be more where that came from:) Hugs and love xox
LikeLike
Mormons have a lot of violence in their faith. It’s kind of creepy how the inner sanctum works there.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It is a very creepy cult style setup of Christianity. I was in an Apostolic Pentecostal church for 15 years and I can tell you it’s extremely similar in it set up to Mormonism and in some areas even more controlling over daily aspects of people’s lives. It’s certainly not what Christ set out to create.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I have a friend who escaped the Fundamentalist faith of her family and loved to tell the story. People can be Really creepy and hardcore about their faith while being mean to non-believers.
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s absolutely correct Tony the harshness of legalism knows almost no boundaries. I started my blog as a method to expose and talk about legalism and then to use that as a platform to talk about the real Christian faith
LikeLike
Great thoughts. I like how you’ve tied eating disorder to this cult, a good comparison. John Travolta and other famous people have been caught in this trap, some have escaped. I’ve heard about Scientology for many years now, never hearing one good thing about it.
LikeLike
Thanks John. Yeah my heart goes out to them. Trapped is the right word. Glad you stopped by! Hugs and love xox
LikeLiked by 1 person
I saw some of Leah’s shows about her time there and could not watch them all as I too couldnt believe this trap. There is some serious brain washing going on so they make you frightened to leave….
LikeLike
Thanks for this. Yeah it’s really sad. You’d think that with technology and everything that kind of thing couldn’t happen in 2017…glad you stopped by! Hugs and love xox
LikeLiked by 1 person
I have read how this “religion” abuses children. That is why Katy left Tom, from what I read. He wanted her to go to one of their “schools” where they are isolated from families and treated horribly. Scientology is evil. I have known one person who was a Scientologist and he refused to tell me about it. He said it was evil and dangerous for him to talk about.
LikeLike
Thanks for sharing that Belle. That is so sad. My heart just goes out to all those people trapped in that system. Hugs and love xox
LikeLiked by 2 people
I was in Scientology for a year back in the 70’s. At the time it rescued me from some stuff I was going through. I was newly wed and my wife took off with another. I was on the other side of the country and did not know a soul. I had a job, but wound up getting laid-off. I took their classes, took some auditing and the theory and techniques makes a ton of sense!! Really! It’s almost genius. It really helped me. I worked for them in their Sacramento office as a ‘Cope Officer’ The pay was nonexistent. $10/week. The hours long. And it gave me a purpose and a family away from home. The only reason I left was, well, who can live on $10/week? So, I went home to Boston. Severed ties with Scientology and didn’t get involved again. It’s very expensive. No one chased me or harassed me, but then I wasn’t Tom Cruise and I was only in it for a year. I still have my e-meter!! I had a good experience with Scientology, but I got out early.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Eric, thank you so much for sharing your experience. I’m glad that it was a positive experience for you! And also, I’m really sorry about your wife. That makes me really sad. 😦 sending you so much love xox
LikeLike
I think people getting trapped in cults starts with wanting acceptance and belonging and it ends up in a myriad of abuse and stuck-ness. Horrifying nightmares these people will be living if they get out and the poor children, my heart breaks to hear about all of this. You are right, becoming trapped starts off simply wanting to better oneself….
LikeLike
Thanks so much for this powerful perspective. You’re right – my heart breaks too. The longing for acceptance is a force to be reckoned with. Thanks for stopping by. Hugs and love xox
LikeLiked by 1 person
Scientology is a cult with lots of personalities in it. People are drawn to it for a lot of reasons. It’s a reason I’m not a fan of Tom Cruise or John Travolta. It’s just a weird place to be in.
LikeLike
Thanks so much Tony. Yeah it definitely is a very strange thing to be associated with. Thanks for stopping by. Hugs and love xox
LikeLike
When I saw today’s title I wasn’t sure where you might be taking this. It quickly became very clear! I never looked at it this way. At least not in terms of ED. After some thought, I offer you a suggested ending for today. But you have to go to Patreon to get it! 🙂
LikeLike
Thanks so much Jeff! Haha yeah I realized after I posted that it could be taken a very different way lol oh awesome-can’t wait to read it! Thanks Jeff! Hugs and love xox
LikeLiked by 1 person
“All ideology requires blind faith…learn from the wealth of information available to everyone with internet 😎”
Stay strong young lady😍
LikeLike
Thanks so much friend. So true – for as wild and crazy as the internet can be, I am so grateful for the incredible access we have to information! big hugs xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Caralyn, for sharing another eye opening Truth. There are many people who get lured, and then trapped in “false religions” following a human who leads them for his / her own benefit or enrichment. I thank you that you always share the Truth of One God, One Way of Salvation, and that is through Jesus Christ, who already paid the price, the debt, the cost of our sins with His willing death on the cross, and gives us who call upon Him, eternal life by His Resurrection.
With the vast readership you have Caralyn, I am praying that some who are trapped in any of these areas, or any area in life as you and others have noted, will see the Truth, and call out to Jesus Christ because He is always listening.
God’s Blessings Caralyn. Praying God’s Protection over you, as you continue to speak these truths, knowing that some persons and the enemy of man’s soul, will not be pleased.
Luv 😀🌹❤️
George
LikeLike
Thanks so much, George. Yeah, it’s hard to believe that these kind of false religions still exist given the internet and everything. But amen to that — there is One God, and One Savior! That is my prayer too. Thanks for your kind words. big big hugs xox
LikeLiked by 1 person
Well done! I offered a view on this a while back in the context of ISIL recruitment practices: Deadly Meaning.
LikeLike
Thanks so much Brian. I am not familiar with what ISIL recruitment is, but I look forward to reading your piece! big hugs xox
LikeLike
Wow! This was an amazing post and you’re just gorgeous. There’s nothing better in this world than looking at the broken chains of something that once had you in its clutches. It may have had a stronghold but you were and ARE stronger. God bless!
LikeLike
Thank you so much! and oh my gosh what a kind thing to say. I’m very touched by that. You’re so right – those chains are broken and God is good!! 🙂 thanks for your encouragement! big hugs xox
LikeLiked by 1 person
How sad how they deny any member, children included, medical healthcare, because they believe that they will be healed. It reminds me of the scene in The Ten Commandments where Ramsees lays his dead son on the pagan god statue, believing that it will bring him back. God helps us yes, and God can help us through health struggles of all kinds, but it takes us helping ourselves and enlisting the resources that he brought into this world, to make it happen. He doesn’t just “cure us”. Have their been miracles? Yes, but those are up to Him and where He sees them fit, not as a cheap cure all by a cult group. Your faith in God brought you strength in your healing but so did His encouraging you by bringing about good doctors and the facility you were in, to help things along. With all that, you are better, and stronger for it. He didn’t just go “boom you’re cured”. Hugs you and ❤ ❤ too!!
LikeLike
Yeah it is really so sad. Thanks for this reflection, Migueltio. Amen – God is good, and I am so grateful for my health and recovery. Boom you’re cured…wouldn’t that be great 🙂 hehehe big hugs xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
xoxoxo<3xoxoxo
LikeLike
✨☀️💛☀️✨
LikeLiked by 1 person
🙂 🙂 ❤ ❤ xoxoxoxox<3 ❤ 🙂 🙂
LikeLike
Your post makes me wonder about religion in general… or any ideology, I guess. A good thing that can go wrong, you know? It’s been interesting reading posts on WordPress and articles of people who left Catholicism/Christianity/Islam/atheism largely because of emotional abuse from people within it, and I feel like I need to be careful about that with my own children. My son recently was play-fighting with his brother and it got heated and turned ugly, and he hit him in anger. And he was so distraught he did it, partly because he has a big heart, I think, but he also said, “We need to not do this, or else I won’t go to Heaven.” My heart come up into my throat when I heard it. I wanted to give him a big hug and tell him God loves him more than even his parents do, but also, I knew his self-knowledge – “If I put myself in this situation, it will lead me to sin” – can be a really healthy thing, too. Your point about giving up sweets for Lent and it leading you down this rabbit hole I think illustrates that point. How do we keep what’s good in our faith from slipping into a disorder?
LikeLiked by 1 person
thank you so much for sharing this. I can’t imagine all of those “parenting moments” that you deal with on the daily. It sounds like you’re a really great dad. That’s such a powerful question – I think it all boils down to keeping the Truth in perspective and keeping things in balance. Good things are good things, until they become the *best* thing, and take the place of God. Creating idols – even of ourselves – is playing with fire. And I think God knew this when He gave us the ten commandments. But what do I know….lol Those are just my thoughts. thanks for stopping by! big hugs xox
LikeLiked by 2 people
You know a lot! 🙂 Thank you for sharing your story, too. I always enjoy your posts.
LikeLike
✨☀️💛☀️✨
LikeLike
This is one of the most insightful commentaries on Scientology that I have ever read. Thank you for sharing!
LikeLike
thank you so much friend. I’m so glad you enjoyed the read! big hugs xox
LikeLike
6-8 hours by car.
LikeLike
I watched The Path on Hulu, knowing it was based on Scientology. I thought if even half of it is true, they should be prosecuted as a criminal organization. Then i saw Leah Rehmini’s series, and I thought, Wow. The Path is almost a documentary. With great acting. I think your comparison with an eating disorder is both surprising and on the money.
I say I’m in recovery from depression and fundamentalism. Depression is a mental illness I didn’t know I had. I guess like an eating disorder, you don’t believe that’s you until you start recovering. But what’s my excuse for fundamentalism? Probably all the same reasons as people caught in Scientology. I don’t mean to bash anyone’s beliefs. Heck, I believe in a Virgin Birth, a Resurrection, eternal life, a three-in-one God, and that I can take in the essence of Christ through bread and wine (grape juice, actually. We presbyterians are wimps – ha ha). A religion with “crazy beliefs” isn’t something I would point fingers at. Fundamentalism to me doesn’t refer to any specific belief system.
Mind control, censoring any and all opposing views, severely punishing, shaming, and cutting off contact from anyone one who doesn’t believe the way they say you must believe or you’re out, and don’t ever talk to your mother, father, son, daughter, brother, or sister again because we have judged them unworthy, that is what I call fundamentalism. It can exist in any belief system, religious, political, Scientologist, Christian, Muslim, liberal, or conservative. It is dangerous, and something I was susceptible to for a long time. I almost lost my family at one point, because they wouldn’t come around to “the truth.”
Even though my faith is important to me, I don’t want to get too gung ho about it, because for me, any beliefs I become enamored with can become a slippery slope into a hell of absolutes, insanity, and my own self-imposed and self-righteous “audits.” I don’t know if I’m making sense here, but I feel the truth in what you’re saying. Just don’t want to turn fundamentalist with it, if you know what I mean.
LikeLike
Thanks so much for sharing this. I so get what you’re saying. Perfect sense. Lots of really great food for thought. I’ll have to check out The path! Thanks for the recco. Have a great night. Hugs and love xox
LikeLiked by 1 person
I watched a lot of the shows and found it so disturbing how someone can exploit people this way. I applaud those who made it out and pray for those who are still trapped. Thanks for sharing.
LikeLike
Yeah it’s really sad. Thanks for this reflection Brenda. You’re right let’s pray for those trapped. Hugs and love xox
LikeLike
I suspect that some actors must think, “Hey, if Tom Cruz is into it…and it might be a good career move.” Sad. As for non-actors and non – LA / NY area people, it might start in science fiction (Hubbard) and feed a certain human spiritual hunger. But the bait leads to the trap.
Leah R is brave to take it all on now with a view to helping others. As for you, good lord, you’re so young and pretty you’d look good if you gained 20 pounds. 🙄 But congratulations on your overcoming, and especially your helping others.
LikeLike
Thanks for this friend. Yeah it really is sad. What a kind thing to say. Yeah Leah is brave and good for her for trying to put an end to the corruption. Thanks for stopping by. Hugs and love xox
LikeLike
Wow! Nice analogy. I, too, watched that series with apt fascination. I’m glad you’ve found your way back.
LikeLike
Thanks so much friend. Yeah it was fascinating and sad all in one. Hugs and love xox
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wow. I’ve never seen the shows you linked to, but I’ve heard stories about Scientology over the years. And I had never thought of the similarities between Scientology and anorexia. Thank you for sharing. ❤
LikeLike
thanks so much. yeah, it’s really sad. definitely check it out if you’re looking for an eye opening documentary. so glad you stopped by! big hugs xox
LikeLiked by 1 person
Reblogged this on Hopes and Dreams: My Writing and My Sons and commented:
I’ve never seen this angle on Scientology explored before. The parallels are disturbing, to say the least.
LikeLike
thanks for the reblog! hugs x
LikeLike
Another article of great insight. It is true… the enemy of God uses the same basic strategies to deceive and destroy those who are unaware (it’s the same lies… just all dressed up in different “packaging”). Thanks again for sharing your journey… with such a sensitive heart. God continue to bless and guide you! M. A.
LikeLiked by 1 person
thanks so much for your thoughts, yeah – those lies are divisive and destructive. but God is stronger than that! thanks for stopping by! hugs xo
LikeLike
<>
I think there are lot of other “famous” 🤓 religions doing that too! Basically when anyone forces his faith on other person its no more a religion! 😌
BTW eye opener article! Although we don’t hear about this Scientology thing in this part of the world much!
LikeLike
thanks so much, Raj, I really appreciate your thoughts. yeah, it’s a sad reality for a lot of people. hugs xox
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’ve been back to your website a handful of times… You’re doing a great job here! Keep up the good work. If you’re ever looking for a place to guest post or if you’d be interested in being on a podcast, check out DailyPS.com – We’d be honored to have you! Regardless, I just wanted to say great job; you’re impacting lives!!!
LikeLike
thank you so much Alex, I really appreciate your readership! i’ll def keep that in mind! thanks! hugs x
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks! Keep it up 🙂
LikeLike
✨☀️💛☀️✨
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great post. I haven’t watch Leah Remini’s series yet, but I plan to this summer. I think the analogy between EDs and Scientology or any oppressive dogma is spot on and powerful. The damage done to our body and mind may be different, but the mechanism of injury is the same.
LikeLike
Thanks so much! yeah it’s a really eye opening series. thanks for your thoughts. hugs xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes there are practices that are destructive, they could even be healthy practices as you mention. Exercise is not evil and neither is diet but its the extremes we have to avoid just as we have to be very discerning about man made philosophies that are the oft times flavour of the day and just as destructive as cocaine. When Jesus said He would give us life abundantly He was obviously talking about the life hereafter and in this life the peace that comes to us in the knowledge of that hereafter in spite of the travails of daily living.
LikeLike
Thanks Ian, you’re so right – both those things are good but like you said, when taken to the extreme they become destructive. Amen! Jesus brings life. Hugs and love xox
LikeLiked by 1 person
Okay I might not watch it, but I to know about people who make themselves think of being fat, not good looking as models are, and try to cut down on food, when that isn’t the answer, but if you are over weight and if you not over weight then just keep eating foods that’s a healthy weight to eat, or just not a big plate of something, but just a normal meal size for your breakfast, lunch, and dinner to keep a normal weight that is healthy for you.
I’m trying to say this as nice as I can without sounding offence, hopefully I’m during a good job at it.
LikeLike
Thanks for your thoughts Michael. I appreciate you stopping by! Hugs and love xox
LikeLike
Brave on you, on the topic of Scientology! And done with care.
An eating disorder as a religion, that’s interesting…
… and finding commonalities in the patterns of behavior between the two. You’re a thinker.
As a Christian, and as an Anglican…, food’s an interesting topic. (And I am aware of the topic of communion…) And yet the heart and the Spirit matter more, in relationship
LikeLike
Thanks so much David. Yeah I tried to be as respectful as I could. Hah…I guess when you have a blog you mind ends up going weird places haha thanks for stopping by. Hugs and love xox
LikeLike
Just a thought, and in mind of your story. People sometimes fast from breakfast before Holy Communion. And so, instead of one meal, there is another meal. (And breakfast can then be had as usual afterward…) I am not comfortable to say much more but that was where my thought was. David
LikeLike
Interesting article! I’m checking out the links now! Never knew much about scientology before reading this. Only that Tom Cruz was into it.
LikeLike
Thanks so much! Yeah def give them a watch. Especially Leah Remini’s — very well done. Yeah same! Until the series! Hugs and love xox
LikeLike
Interesting comparison. Kudos to you for finding empathy and understanding!
LikeLike
Thanks so much for your kind words. Yeah my heart just goes out to all those people. Thanks for stopping by. Hugs and love xox
LikeLike
My dear friend,
Unfortunately there are hundred thousands of false prophets as we could already read in the Bible. However, there are some certain features how to find out if they are so-called prophets or ideas or true once to differentiate them. There are religious groups and sects they build a fense around themselves and do not allow others (normal ones) to enter their “premises” – they claim: We are the truth (like propaganda), only our organisation is right, they squeeze the money out of people, in so called seminars, giving people some valueless documents in their hands declaring them as spiritual aspirants etc… In doing so they are very tricky and clever. The more they mix truth with untruthfulness, the more people are unable to differentiate and remain confused. Their leaders claim: We are the master, the guru, the spiritual teacher (also just propaganda in which many people are easily trapped) – they make promises to use these promises as baits to fish their “followers” – in the end they find them brain-washed with no clear mind to think beyond the brim of the life-plate. Spirituality cannot be bought in any shop, nor it can be achieved in seminar or testaments – not even obtained from book-reading. Spirituality is like an “infecting disease” that can only be taken and developed by the receptivity of our inner eye, by our heart-understanding, not with our intellect. In the end all those so-called religious organisations, sects, groups etc – have one intrest in common: Power over other people, manipulate them and benefit from their money and credulousness – to increase their own power within the society… and for this they built a fortress, in fact a prison for all their fellowers – who are not able to see that they are captured, imprisoned, brain-washed – and fight vividly against each and everyone who is against their “idea” – covering and protecting it under the blanket of a religious liberty…
Thanks for your courage too to share this subject 🙂
All good wishes
Didi
LikeLike
Hi Didi, thank you so much for this thoughtful response. you’re so right, it’s a sad truth…there are a lot of those out there. My heart goes out to all those people trapped in the oppression. thanks for taking the time to read and respond. big hugs xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Reblogged this on Turning the Page on Suicide and commented:
The enemy of all of us often uses the same pattern, just with different skin, to isolate us and separate us from the love of God. Beauty Beyond Bones gives excellent insight into recognizing the isolation we spiral into. She encourages us to move away from judging the false beliefs we observe others wearing, instead, cultivate compassion for the brokenness we all share in common. We can learn to recognize the internal organs of the lies we believe about ourselves, others, and God and put on the new skin of truth.
LikeLike
thanks for the reblog! hugs xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Good stuff! Yeah, I’ve seen a few episodes of the Leah Remini series…it really is eye-opening and sad.
I love the comparison you made, too. Thank God for the freedom we have in Him 🙌🙌🙌!!
LikeLike
thanks Wayne! yeah, really sad indeed. Amen for His freedom! big hugs xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Carolyn!
Great article, very well written, exposing it for exactly what it is. I watched the videos at the time Leah Remini exposed this demonic organization.. What got my interest was the extreme measure she with through to expose this demonic organization. I feared for her life. Some have mysteriously died after leaving the organization, even reports of suicide. Scientology is a death game that many soul commit there life to playing expecting to be winners, but they don’t realize they are losing. I say “losing” because some time people appear to be winning, but in the end they find themselves standing at death’s door step.* By the way, you’re an awesome writer and I love reading your posts. Great Job!
LikeLike
Thanks so much Jeanie, yeah my heart goes out to all those people who are trapped. a death game is a pretty accurate description. thanks for stopping by. big hugs xox
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re welcome ♡
LikeLike
🙂 🙂 🙂 xoxo 🙂 🙂 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person