Thanks to all who Blogged Against Theocracy

If you haven't yet had an opportunity to read some of the posts, please do. The content was excellent, as were many of the comments. The blogswarm even managed to attract some detractors -- which is always a good sign. It means the word is getting out there.

It's also affirming to see individuals from both ends of the spectrum -- people of faith and atheists -- engaging in meaningful, respectful exchanges. That doesn't always happen when talking about one of the two topics people are warned NEVER to talk about in public ... namely, religion and politics.

The exchanges that took place are EXACTLY what the founders had in mind when they gave us a Constitutionally guaranteed separation of church and state.

Church-state separation allow people to make up their own minds about religion. You can decide to follow a faith tradition, you can later choose to change to another one, or you can decide that holding a religious belief is not for you. We get to make those decisions in America. And we have very little religious conflict because of that freedom.

But we must keep in mind there will always be those bullies who believe that everyone must think as they do -- and will do everything possible to try and force their beliefs upon you by law. Which is why we must be vigilant.

First Freedom First offers a way to get involved, at what ever level you feel comfortable being involved. You can simply add your name to the petition. That's an excellent way to help. You can encourage others to do the same -- another excellent idea. You can volunteer, which is MOST excellent. And you can continue to keep the conversation going long after the Blog Against Theocracy ends. That's one of the most important things of all.

The 2008 race for the White House is well under way. What are the candidates thoughts on safeguarding separation of church and state? It's a question we must ask them at every stop.

There are going to be races for everything from local school board to the US Congress. How do those candidate approach church-state separation? Anyone who cares about the issue needs to ask.

Thanks to everyone who participated. It's been fun getting to know a few of you. I hope we can all keep in touch!