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Is it just me, or does “freedom of religion” in the U.S. seem to exist on a sliding scale or hierarchy with Christianity and Judaism first, all other religions in a middle gray area, and Islam on the bottom?

Thanks to the Hobby Lobby ruling, a Christian employer can deny healthcare with Planned Parenthood benefits to thousands of employees, yet if you are a Buddhist who adamantly practices non-violence you still have to pay taxes and watch a sizeable portion go to military spending. I find God in Mother Nature — my temples can be torn down at any time.

EDWARD OHLWEILER

Sandpoint