Editor #46
The first question you should ask yourself is “What would renowned actor and Scientologist Tom Cruise say?” In a 2003 interview with Dateline, he stated that “[Scientology] is the fastest-growing religion. It’s helped so many people. I know it because I use it, and I am a Scientologist. And it’s extraordinary.” Thanks for that intellectually stimulating piece of advice Mr. Cruise. Jeffrey Levinson III, your answer is clear: help people and be extraordinary. Sounds easy enough; however, evaluating the extent to which you agree with and appreciate your faith is not always so cut-and-dry. If you truly want to understand and embrace your faith, you should not simply skim the surface and browse through the core beliefs.
Ignorance is bliss. If you do not explore the depths of the truth, then you will usually be happier, more naive and more innocent. No one — hopefully — is forcing you to further inquire into the history and details of your faith. On the other hand, if you do not understand and embrace Scientology in its fullness, are you truly a Scientologist? Do you want to be one of those vegetarians who indulges in the occasional BLT?
In order to be a Scientologist, or any other follower of a philosophy, you should not be afraid to learn about Scientology. Try
to familiarize yourself with the positives, negatives, accomplishments and failures of your faith. If you are tired of being afraid of the the unknown and living in naivety, then research, research, research. It may sound cliché, but the truth will set you free.
One last word of advice: do not allow other people to hinder your research just because they have suspicions about Scientology. Gaining a broader perspective of your faith is your personal journey — not theirs. If they give you funny looks, just tell them to go make a BLT and watch Risky Business.