Hi Darht: Dehumanizing: yes, that word choice is very intriguing and I will be pondering that and trying it on my experience for time to come. It amazes me that even though I have been living under and with the effects of abuse my entire life, the final blow, that led to unraveling my religious grid /belief system, was recent. The view from being on the outside of all of this is stunning. Everyday I am still processing it all. It is a new identity and a new world for me. I have been seeing also that the religious that I know seem to script and dictate meaning/rules to suit their choices. There is so much depth in your reply and within this subject. I guess that means there is so much more to say- yes? I am tracking with what you are saying. I really appreciate your thoughtful reply and sharing your experience. This is exactly what I hoped for: connection and community. I am happy that you would connect with me. Thank you for reading also. I will read your article that you link. I appreciate the suggestion.