I feel like that's how most atheists move through the world once we're past our "angry atheists" phase. I've found that I'm happy about not knowing and maybe never knowing. What I do know is how I treat others and myself and that's what's important in life.
Agreed. My thoughts on “does God exist?” has always been this. I’m not sure, but it doesn’t matter, because it’s not going to stop me from being a good person. If you need religion in your life or need to know that God exists in order to be a good person, you have larger issues to look at
I loved Rhett’s discussion but I feel more in line with Link. I felt like he was describing how I feel in which, I just want to live my life. They’re may be something out there a higher being or spiritually but I don’t need to know what it is or search for it I’m happy just living my life the best I can and spreading that to other people and loved ones.
direct opposite here. i loved absorbing Link's take on this matter, but I am very much the sort of person who approaches life like Rhett does. although my general reaction to discussions like these are akin to Rhett's when Link starts aggressively sniffing his dog at 25:03, it brings me some sort of intense primitive joy to know that there are people who i) are capable of seeing the world through such an emotional lens (and not as a prerogative, as i would usually put it) and ii) are lucky enough and healthy enough to one day reach such a raw state of happiness. i've only just turned eighteen a few weeks ago, so seeing someone who i have been watching religiously (har har) for almost a decade describe finally feeling this unfettered happiness is... strange, to say the least, but certainly more optimistic than anything i could have cooked up myself. sometimes, shit works out, and that's wonderful to hear as a young person who is constantly surrounded by a rhetoric quite the opposite.
The man has realized that the meaning of his life is enough, he doesn't need to know the higher purpose of humanity. He has a happy life with family, friends, he has a job he likes and hobbies he is happy with. Does he need more? Rhett is hoping for a meaning of humanity, but he will never know that answer while alive. Is it worth it to wallow in that unanswerable question? Maybe for some, looking for that makes them feel fulfilled, but Link just let it go and is happier from it, focusing on the questions here and now. I myself don't think about it, cause then I would start thinking about all the world problems. How do I stop world hunger? Poverty? Global warming? Do I need to solve that?
I love how good you two are at listening to one another . While making the other person feel heard and giving that person enough space to finish their thoughts .
Link's genuinely good, Rhetts good in a "I'll listen so you have to listen to me way". (He's also verbally abusive to Link, and threatens him with his size)
Pretty cool alright. Like, I know a small part of it is business as they are smart dudes and know that likeability attracts and retains viewers, especially on this platform but to be doing what they're doing, for so long, they have to be genuinely decent guys to make it work. I myself am good at making friends but am terrible at keeping them. I run out of things to talk about, get bored and am lazy. It's hard work being engaged and personable all the time. Much easier just having random mini-rants on the internet. :p
What you two do IS sometimes dumb and silly BUT it's also genuine and palpable. Your relationship, your moral dispositions and your brand of weird is my favorite medicine.
You could see the deep struggle not to make a joke or even a face to the camera like he would on GMM. It was both very sweet because I understood what Link was saying and hilarious because I felt Rhett’s withheld reaction. 😂
I resonate so much with what Link is saying. When you are in the evangelical environment they teach that God is the only source of good/success/progress/joy etc.. that without him, you can be nothing on your own. When you go through a deconstruction, you realize that is not true. You can find joy from within you and around you. You CAN be a good human because of your own desires for kindness, love, and peace.. THIS was a surprising revelation for me. We were taught if we ever left the church and evangelical faith practices, that our families and lives would completely fall apart, and we would lose everything. The opposite has been true for me. I have discovered myself, my husband, my children, my friendships in brand new lights that are free from shame, judgment, and fear. it’s truly been an enlightening, joy filled journey.
I’m really not sure which church taught you that God is your source of success and progress, but no honest Christian would say that since that’s so far from the heart of Christianity. Also, when people say that God is the only source of goodness, that does not mean that humans can’t do good. It means that without the existence of a moral God inciting inherent moral standards upon His creation, good would simply not be a thing. Therefore, no God = no good. People who don’t believe in God have to sit in his own hand and stare him in the face in order to “disprove” him. They say “I don’t need God to do good.” And then turn around and do good to their fellow neighbor, moving in accordance with God’s design of moral goodness. Also not sure who told you that your life would fall apart if you left the church, but again, not true. I’m sure someone who is in their sins would be more than happy to continue in them upon renouncing Christ. If there was shame, judgement, and fear in your walk with God, it makes sense that you would walk away. However, for those in Christ, “there is no condemnation”. The truth of Christ sets you free to follow Him with no shame of your past, because he’s washed it away. I know I’m a needle in the haystack of atheists in the comment section, but I saw it necessary for Christ to be accurately represented here. Thank you for listening to my TedxTalks
You mentioned hospital, I spend one day in hospital a week. I save your podcast and listen to it through treatment and I have for the last 3 yrs. You both have somehow always given me a laugh or hope or caused me to think deeply when I needed it. So thank you both very much. I think you do give good to the world, and that's no ordinary thing.
Shed a few happy tears when link closed this out by declaring he’s as happy as he’s ever been in his life. A beautiful thing to witness. May it continue! 😊 love seeing people that bring joy and kindness to others, sharing in happiness. No one more deserving.
This was the most relaxing and heartwarming 1 1/2 hours of Ear Biscuits I’ve ever experienced. Y’all brought me to tears multiple times. Link, I’ve been on the same spiritual journey this last year, myself. Being in the moment and accepting the opportunity to be present is so important. Rhett, I appreciate and love your inspiration to find truth. I don’t know anything, as far as I’m concerned, and whether I do find that truth or just am happy with my own existence and truth, that’s all that matters. Y’all are special people. Thank you for being you.
I get this. So much. I see my animals as living lessons in unconditional love and forgiveness. They live in the moment. They are present. They have open hearts. They are kind. They are loyal. They are funny. They are in tune with our feelings. They have powerful messages to give.
That is a sweet, sensitive and kind man that can articulate the love they have for the fur babies in his life. Dogs especially love unconditionally, which is something we all desire in life. 💗
Growing up in an evangelical church, youth group, mission trips, etc., these deconstruction episodes are some of my favorites. So much resonates with me and my journey.
"I'm just going to be myself, and see where that goes." I loved that statement so much. There's so much we just can't know, but we do know that our bodies are made of the same stuff as the stars. We are essentially the universe itself, which has become self-aware after a very long evolution. There is nothing that we "should" do except observe the world around us, share our unique experience, and allow others to do the same. You're a good person because you encourage positivity and curiosity - essential qualities for this universe trying to figure itself out. It's been inspiring to hear about your journey, and we've loved hearing you share your stories of love and friendship. Thanks for being who you are ❤
Strangely, I'm 80 but resonate with your aspirations, Link and Rhett. You provide your listeners with insights into the high value of relationality. And honesty.
Hearing link talk about how long it has taken them to realize the impact their work has on people made me tear up. The comfort GMM and ear biscuits brings me has gotten me through so many tough nights and mornings. Appreciate all that you two do!
I always resonate more with Rhett because we're the same analytical, overthinking, logical type. But I think my desired end point is something more like Link's. To just be, the give and receive love, and to be happy and prepared to have no defense. I've never heard it put that way, but I think that works. Just to know myself and what I want and belief, but to feel no need to justify, explain or convince anyone of what that is.
Listener since 2016. Link just moved me!! I don’t have another way to say it. Link gave me language to help me comprehend consciously things about myself and giving me insight and directional assistance to my own spiritual practice. So grateful for his Links willingness to be vulnerable. What a gift!😫😭😭😭😭(heart moved life changing tears) ❤
Link I will validate you by saying, I feel ya! So many similarities beyond belief of the shame, guilt, self-judgement of self and looking at my animals for inspiration of life and living!
I do resonate with Link a lot. My dogs have a wonderful ability to remain so present in the moment- they know nothing else. & they do inspire me to be that same way.
I love how they're super besties, and are so different from each other, but they are still best friends and still love each other as much if not more. They just have this unconditional love for each other. And unconditionally accept each other. Obviously they have tons in common, I'm just saying, they have the love and ability to grow and change in their own ways and continue to become closer in their friendship
You have no idea how freeing these videos are for me. The path is hard. And being surrounded by Catholic family makes me feel unwelcome to be who I need to be, who I feel like I am… Thank you for these discussions. All 6 have been really important to me.
I’ve listened to all of the deconstruction episodes over the last week and here’s what I’ve noticed. I, a 23 year old with little to no Christian upbringing, have the same spiritual beliefs and understandings as two men in their 40s who are dealing with/have dealt with a lot of religious trauma. I’m not sure what to make of that…but it’s a pretty good time😂
Loved hearing how y'alls paths are different yet similar. I relate to the long lasting feeling of shame that originated in religion. I find myself observing and learning lessons from nature in a similar way link does with his animals. Great listen!
goodmorning from california. cant express how much your guys stories have helped me ( someone who was raised southern baptist but still loves god but struggles with a lot of questions)
“I am done with the deconstructing” - was powerful stuff Link! There’s a lot more inner growth to do once the deconstructing is over. It is nice to see it! Next years episode on constructing your personal spiritual path?
I already listened to this episode on Monday, but I wanted to see Jade and Jasper. I totally get where Link is coming from. I think, deep down, we are still animals, and in this modern world with all the complicated challenges of functioning in the hectic environment, we too often ignore the animal side of us and try to push ourselves into a mold we aren't really intended to fit. Interracting with animals is a retreat from the complexity of human life, it grounds, it calms, it lets us be one with nature, and it reminds us of all the little things you can be happy about. And honestly, holding a warm, furry little bundle of love like a dog - it just brings you joy. I've had a really challenging year, with multiple family members having serious health problems at the same time. Momentarily, my christian upbringing has made me question, if all this is because I can't believe in a god, if I'm being punished. But no, I refuse to go down that path. What has helped me through the year is grounding myself, finding joy in the little things, taking the calm moments to charge my batteries, and focusing on what is now instead of worrying about what comes next. And when ever I can, I hold my doggy sister and let her love me as much as I love her. All of this has given me moments of feeling happy and content.
I was just saying to myself as I was taking a walk with my dogs this morning and seeing them run and play and even potty, brought so much joy. Especially seeing their own personalities and goofiness, brought so much joy! They are just themselves and living free and I want to be that way too!
Link, I have a tattoo of my living cat, for a similar reason. He's almost a recharge for me. Being around him, as well as his new brother, is a feeling I love. 💕
Great episodes! It feels so genuine and receptive and healthy and open. I think your enneagram personality types are on display in these conversations - what motivates you, your deepest fears and desires. Link, you are Good. You are enough, just as you are. You bring good into the world. You are worthy of receiving love. We are lucky to receive the love and creativity you put into the world. So glad you're happy and in-the-moment and receptive and mindful and grateful. It feels good, true and beautiful!
I think this makes sense. Rhett has been the one to always want to fully understand and explain everything, and Link just wants to go along with the ride and is happy with that.
I'm finally just watching this now but I think the reason what you guys are doing is healing.... is because of your genuine friendship with each other that for a few moments out of our day we get to be in that friendship. I may have never met you or talked to you, but for those 10-20 minutes a day you are my best friends. And that is healing regardless of whether you make me laugh or not. I love you guys and I'm sending you love!
*I hope that through you having and giving and receiving, we can all learn to receive and have and to give to others so that others can share in our having, giving, sharing, and receiving.*
I am 100% in agreement with Link - my spiritual journey was absolutely impacted the most positively by my doggie. She is the light of my life, and I learn from her what it is to be happy, give love and experience life. I relate so much to Link saying what he did, and am so happy to hear it is something he has experienced too.
This has been the most therapeutic and life-altering series of beautifully made videos I’ve ever seen. Rhett, Link, thank you-I hope to see this series continue as long as you can muster.
I just want to say ho much I love these series . I am going through some rough times and I don't enjoy many smiles but , man . Listening to Link trying to accept himself and dissmantle that inner critic is something that I'm doing right now. Now I have alot of hope for myself because of you. Im smiling on my way to work listening to these podcasts . Sextember too ! Thank you for this !
What I think is interesting is that Rhett is talking about himself and his thoughts and Link is talking about his pets, his family and his fans. So I guess it's true that he had to find out where he is and where other people start. Rhett probably never had that problem. It doesn't make one a better or more intelligent person - it just highlights their different personalities. What I admire about both of them is their authenticity in these podcasts.
I have been deconstructing for almost a decade now and I can say that I bottomed out into a purely nihilistic framework for perceiving reality after having picked apart everything that I was conditioned into by my evangelical upbringing. I consider it kind of like having had a Humpty Dumpty moment, having realized that fundamentalism was more of a tower of babel in of itself, I jumped off and shattered. I certainly consider myself having entered into this phase of reconstruction, and although my experience maps a little closer to Rhett's, I think my personality does as well, I actually see myself coming into Link's conclusions. I find that I'm someone who has to describe his experience and so I engage with all of the naming of things. I research into the histories of the churches within Christianity and the circulating influences of philosophies that sort of interact with each other. I delved heavily into the eastern traditions of religion and philosophy and then I started getting even more introspective than I had ever been before. I found two things that I could identify with. The first that grabbed my attention was stoicism, particularly the works of Plato and the dialogues of Socrates, and then I found some of the insights of the neoplatonic traditions that had served as a sort of a Roman Renaissance of the Greek philosophers. This is where I see myself in Link. He very much appears to manifest big Socrates energy when he basically quotes his maxim "true wisdom is knowing that you know nothing." The second thing I found were the works of Lao Tzu and Chuang Tzu, "philosophical Taoism" as it's more generally known as. The first line of Lao Tzu's work, the Tao Te Ching, is "the tao that can be named is not the eternal Tao". And I also find that in both Rhett and Link. What turned me off to Christianity was that its history is overflowing with individuals who claim to know and understand and speak for God and the lack of consistency has been an endless source for xenophobia and even war. I find myself, having delved deeply into the church fathers and even a book on the relationship between the Logos and the Tao (Christ the eternal Tao), and through this I have overcome the stages of grief I felt after having deconverted, but I can't reconcile myself with participating in the religion. My problem is that I very much have Link's desire to maintain humility towards knowledge and propositions, but I very much do still have a desire to participate in rituals and communities that aim towards the truth that Rhett speaks of. Participating in Taoism beyond the philosophy is either too little, in the form of tai chi chuan, or too much in the forms of Chinese folk paganism and alchemy. I think that taoism is ideologically superior to Buddhism, I think it maps better to reality as I experience it, so that's out of the question, and I find that one can't really participate in stoicism in a religious fashion, there just aren't rituals that don't involve Greek mythology. I think I find myself lost in Rhett's sea of uncertainty after having jumped ship, but have drifted to an island and I don't know if I should be happy with the island as it is, or use its resources to build a ship of my own, so I remain uncertain. It just may be that uncertainty is the way and eliminating this need to participate in things beyond the present moment is how I must move forward. I have made peace with this potential. I have to thank you guys for the depth of these conversations. A lot of people have gone through deconstruction and the communities that they were a part of are full of condescension and ostracization. I am alone, not even my family wants to engage with me in good faith conversation. RUclips is my only outlet for this and you guys create a safe space for the discussion of the nature of our relationships with reality. That is something greater in of itself.
THANK YOU for listening to us a couple episodes ago and getting rid of that multiple angle format and just doing a side-by-side split. MUCH easier on the eyes.
It made me so happy to see Link's excitement at the beginning of the episode; any trepidation for where he was and how he was expressing the state of his journey that I remember being present in the previous episodes of this series has melted away. This episode was beautiful to watch, and though it may be temporary, the happiness that he reiterated at the end of the episode was beautiful to witness.
Link, i feel you. this time last year i was riding life on the high that jasper and jade teach you about. Just living life completely effortlessly, and loving what happened. I need to get back to that, because i have personally lost a bit of that perspective, and gotten back to worrying about stressers and not enjoying my life
Listened to both these deconstructions on after the other, Just so good seeing two human beings speaking openly about how they think feel and love! You guys are amazing, brought myself some mythical merc the other day, brings smiles to ma face! Keep on doing what your doing guys, what your spreading is such a good thing!!
I am so proud of you Link. It makes me so happy to see how happy you are. I think you've really stepped into your truest self and I'm so excited to see what the future holds for you. I love ya, man. Keep being you!
I was raised without religion, I've always been agnostic and still am but I am also a Quaker, I'm from the UK and Quakers in the US are more religious but in the UK, you don't have to believe in God, or can have any other religious views But we are bought together through silence, we sit in silence together, anyone can speak whenever they want, there is no structure or leaders and we can believe in equality, simplicity, sustainability, peace and truth. You can get the most amazing spiritual experience and connection to everything on earth
Wow. I just watched both deconstructions, I loved them both. I seriously think link is a genius for this. There seriously must be the key to life somewhere in the simplicity of it all.
i think i follow what link is describing, and there's some layers of wisdom there. the practice of seeing an individual for what they are and especially what benefits their personality and actions bring to life can only bring you an appreciation for them, for other, for differences, and also help reflect on yourself with the same positivity. choosing animals is great because they are open books and don't judge you for analyzing them. but to do the same with people does seem to be the goal for me personally. i want to make a person and *myself* feel comfortable enough that i can learn who they are to the depth that our differences can be celebrated and appreciated.
Omg Link's interactions with his dogs this episode was probably the cutest most pure and good thing I've ever witnessed and it felt like my entire consciousness was melting and turning into the most pleasant sweetness. I don't even know man, I loved this so much! 😻
Links way of thinking is pretty inspirational, it made me giggle when he said he's making his own religion for himself but listening to all of it, it's pretty nice :) .... I might learn from this
Better Help has a handful of scandals, they do not provide qualified therapists. I'm dumbfounded anyone still accepts sponsorships with them. The RUclips creator illuminaughtii uploaded a video today detailing everything wrong with Better Help. I seriously hope nobody trusts their mental health with that company, and I wish people would do their due diligence before accepting a sponsorship. Better Help as it functions today, is a company that shouldn't ever exist.
I left the Baptist church at 16, lost my faith at about 19, & gradually eliminated spirituality from my beliefs by about 21. Now i see religion from the outside & view spirituality as quaint. I think Rhett & Link will continue to evolve.
Everybody comes up with frameworks that work for them. Rhett especially went through a phase where he was 100% an Atheist ™️. I don't think you're more evolved for describing spirituality with such condescending words as "quaint." I also don't think you're less evolved. You're just working from your own experiences and brain chemistry to do what works for you. And that's chill. All of us should do that, as long as we're doing our best to be good people.
Absolutely loved, loved!! Link talking about his pets was especially great!! I also think we can learn a lot from animals. Being in touch with ourselves is huge and this whole deep dive that Link did was amazing! Resonated a ton with me. I know Link fumbled and tumbled a lot throughout this podcast, but it somehow got me hooked. Awesome work as always guys!
I'm not allergic to change. I like the new setup and it's growing on me too. This convo made me feel good. I am so invested in these creators. Is this what church be like
I grew up a Christian. Spent years in ministry. In the last year and half I’d say I’ve found that I don’t connect much with it anymore. I just have to say that personally enjoy hearing both your journeys of faith or spirituality. It helps me feel more comfortable where I’m at, and that there’s room for growth. Thanks for putting these out.
link i feel the same way about my dog. and let me tell you, to recognize all those amazing qualities in them means that all of those things are within yourself ❤ nice work :)
I just want y'all to know that your work is healing, because it leads the the three transcendental terms Link mentioned, the beautiful, the good and the true. Both Ear biscuits and good mythical morning have some elements of all three, but Ear Biscuits itself is where we get to see your true selves, and your true selves are beautiful. That's why I keep coming back, and always will. Forever a fan y'all, keep doing what your doing.
While it's nice to want to know where we came from and why we're here, it's tons more important to be good to the people regardless of belief and what you know or what you think you know. Kindness & understanding is the best practice. It's so soothing when you realize "i don't know" is good enough 😌
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I love the idea of being prepared to have no defense. Not everything in life needs to have a well-thought-out, intelligent, fully processed answer.
Agreed and I need to literally practice having no practice 😂
We dont have to perfect, we can just say things and not have to perfect it every time
I feel like that's how most atheists move through the world once we're past our "angry atheists" phase. I've found that I'm happy about not knowing and maybe never knowing. What I do know is how I treat others and myself and that's what's important in life.
Especially when we lack the tools to describe them 😊
Agreed. My thoughts on “does God exist?” has always been this.
I’m not sure, but it doesn’t matter, because it’s not going to stop me from being a good person. If you need religion in your life or need to know that God exists in order to be a good person, you have larger issues to look at
Link “I’m just gonna keep this simple” immediately followed by “I’m creating my own religion” 😂
Honestly, I wouldn't expect anything less of Link lol that just sums him up pretty well lol
I mean, we know he's exaggerating. What he's saying is he's finding his own meaning in life and his own examples of how to live life better
😂
Link feeling the happiest he’s ever felt in his life makes me happy 💗
Same!
i’ve never felt more proud of him. that’s our guy right there
I loved Rhett’s discussion but I feel more in line with Link. I felt like he was describing how I feel in which, I just want to live my life. They’re may be something out there a higher being or spiritually but I don’t need to know what it is or search for it I’m happy just living my life the best I can and spreading that to other people and loved ones.
direct opposite here. i loved absorbing Link's take on this matter, but I am very much the sort of person who approaches life like Rhett does. although my general reaction to discussions like these are akin to Rhett's when Link starts aggressively sniffing his dog at 25:03, it brings me some sort of intense primitive joy to know that there are people who i) are capable of seeing the world through such an emotional lens (and not as a prerogative, as i would usually put it) and ii) are lucky enough and healthy enough to one day reach such a raw state of happiness. i've only just turned eighteen a few weeks ago, so seeing someone who i have been watching religiously (har har) for almost a decade describe finally feeling this unfettered happiness is... strange, to say the least, but certainly more optimistic than anything i could have cooked up myself. sometimes, shit works out, and that's wonderful to hear as a young person who is constantly surrounded by a rhetoric quite the opposite.
Dang you guys should create a RUclips show together or somethin
@@aight_bhai just want to say i appreciate your comment
The man has realized that the meaning of his life is enough, he doesn't need to know the higher purpose of humanity. He has a happy life with family, friends, he has a job he likes and hobbies he is happy with. Does he need more? Rhett is hoping for a meaning of humanity, but he will never know that answer while alive. Is it worth it to wallow in that unanswerable question? Maybe for some, looking for that makes them feel fulfilled, but Link just let it go and is happier from it, focusing on the questions here and now.
I myself don't think about it, cause then I would start thinking about all the world problems. How do I stop world hunger? Poverty? Global warming? Do I need to solve that?
@@Nordicsz nicely put!
If Rhett is the intellectual side of the brain, Link is the emotional side. And I think that’s why these two work in tandem so well.
exemplified in the gmm episodes where they guess the price lmao😂
Link graduated top of his class in college. He’s intelligent. These are characters.
Link for years not wanting a dog, to now having a tattoo of his favorite on his arm, and has another dog and a cat. What a world
It's almost as if people change as they get older lol
@@pnut3844ableand that’s beautiful
I love how good you two are at listening to one another . While making the other person feel heard and giving that person enough space to finish their thoughts .
Link's genuinely good, Rhetts good in a "I'll listen so you have to listen to me way". (He's also verbally abusive to Link, and threatens him with his size)
Yesss
@@LetsPlayBrick you’re joking right
Pretty cool alright. Like, I know a small part of it is business as they are smart dudes and know that likeability attracts and retains viewers, especially on this platform but to be doing what they're doing, for so long, they have to be genuinely decent guys to make it work.
I myself am good at making friends but am terrible at keeping them. I run out of things to talk about, get bored and am lazy. It's hard work being engaged and personable all the time. Much easier just having random mini-rants on the internet. :p
@@LetsPlayBrick you could be any other way. Why are you like this?
What you two do IS sometimes dumb and silly BUT it's also genuine and palpable. Your relationship, your moral dispositions and your brand of weird is my favorite medicine.
Yeah, I came on here to write the same thing. Sometimes genuine dumb and silly from the heart is just what a body needs.
they have noooo idea how specific and perfect they are for providing exactly what i need every day!!
Finally, they are starting to realize how much of an impact their show has on fans and people in general. Love this and Rhett's episode as well.
@Erin Chamberlain hear ye hear ye!!
The look on Rhett's face when Link pulls out Jade and starts intensely sniffing and embracing her just had me dying 🤣🤣
I'm cry laughing!!
Ahaha he was totally humorously judging Link for loving them so much 🤣
He was doing everything he could to not make jokes
You could see the deep struggle not to make a joke or even a face to the camera like he would on GMM. It was both very sweet because I understood what Link was saying and hilarious because I felt Rhett’s withheld reaction. 😂
I resonate so much with what Link is saying. When you are in the evangelical environment they teach that God is the only source of good/success/progress/joy etc.. that without him, you can be nothing on your own. When you go through a deconstruction, you realize that is not true. You can find joy from within you and around you. You CAN be a good human because of your own desires for kindness, love, and peace.. THIS was a surprising revelation for me. We were taught if we ever left the church and evangelical faith practices, that our families and lives would completely fall apart, and we would lose everything. The opposite has been true for me. I have discovered myself, my husband, my children, my friendships in brand new lights that are free from shame, judgment, and fear. it’s truly been an enlightening, joy filled journey.
I couldn’t agree with you more ❤
100%, thank you for putting this into words ❤❤❤❤
@@rebeccajacob5148 you’re welcome! It’s taking me a few years to be able to put it into words.:)
I’m really not sure which church taught you that God is your source of success and progress, but no honest Christian would say that since that’s so far from the heart of Christianity. Also, when people say that God is the only source of goodness, that does not mean that humans can’t do good. It means that without the existence of a moral God inciting inherent moral standards upon His creation, good would simply not be a thing. Therefore, no God = no good. People who don’t believe in God have to sit in his own hand and stare him in the face in order to “disprove” him. They say “I don’t need God to do good.” And then turn around and do good to their fellow neighbor, moving in accordance with God’s design of moral goodness. Also not sure who told you that your life would fall apart if you left the church, but again, not true. I’m sure someone who is in their sins would be more than happy to continue in them upon renouncing Christ.
If there was shame, judgement, and fear in your walk with God, it makes sense that you would walk away. However, for those in Christ, “there is no condemnation”. The truth of Christ sets you free to follow Him with no shame of your past, because he’s washed it away. I know I’m a needle in the haystack of atheists in the comment section, but I saw it necessary for Christ to be accurately represented here. Thank you for listening to my TedxTalks
@@justinbond9467 Thank you, Justin. I agree.
You mentioned hospital, I spend one day in hospital a week. I save your podcast and listen to it through treatment and I have for the last 3 yrs. You both have somehow always given me a laugh or hope or caused me to think deeply when I needed it. So thank you both very much. I think you do give good to the world, and that's no ordinary thing.
Shed a few happy tears when link closed this out by declaring he’s as happy as he’s ever been in his life. A beautiful thing to witness. May it continue! 😊 love seeing people that bring joy and kindness to others, sharing in happiness. No one more deserving.
And how Rhett is so genuinely happy for him. That got me too.
This was the most relaxing and heartwarming 1 1/2 hours of Ear Biscuits I’ve ever experienced. Y’all brought me to tears multiple times. Link, I’ve been on the same spiritual journey this last year, myself. Being in the moment and accepting the opportunity to be present is so important. Rhett, I appreciate and love your inspiration to find truth. I don’t know anything, as far as I’m concerned, and whether I do find that truth or just am happy with my own existence and truth, that’s all that matters. Y’all are special people. Thank you for being you.
I get this. So much. I see my animals as living lessons in unconditional love and forgiveness. They live in the moment. They are present. They have open hearts. They are kind. They are loyal. They are funny. They are in tune with our feelings. They have powerful messages to give.
That is a sweet, sensitive and kind man that can articulate the love they have for the fur babies in his life. Dogs especially love unconditionally, which is something we all desire in life. 💗
Link talking about Jade the way he did .. made me cry. It resonated so deeply and I'm not sure why.
Cause you’re a kind soul ☮️❤️
I cried, too and it completely caught me off guard.
It’s a beautiful thing
Growing up in an evangelical church, youth group, mission trips, etc., these deconstruction episodes are some of my favorites. So much resonates with me and my journey.
"I'm just going to be myself, and see where that goes." I loved that statement so much. There's so much we just can't know, but we do know that our bodies are made of the same stuff as the stars. We are essentially the universe itself, which has become self-aware after a very long evolution. There is nothing that we "should" do except observe the world around us, share our unique experience, and allow others to do the same. You're a good person because you encourage positivity and curiosity - essential qualities for this universe trying to figure itself out. It's been inspiring to hear about your journey, and we've loved hearing you share your stories of love and friendship. Thanks for being who you are ❤
I appreciate Link’s openness and honesty about his self-loving practices. Super inspiring, and such a great episode. Thanks guys❤
When Link started talking about Jade, I loved watching Rhett's face slowly morph from looking mildly amused and judgmental to deeply moved.
Strangely, I'm 80 but resonate with your aspirations, Link and Rhett. You provide your listeners with insights into the high value of relationality. And honesty.
i relate so much to link bc i orbit around my cat and he’s really the only thing that matters . looooooove my kitty
Animals bring so much enrichment and love into our lives. Little buddies. I can't imagine not having one.
Hearing link talk about how long it has taken them to realize the impact their work has on people made me tear up. The comfort GMM and ear biscuits brings me has gotten me through so many tough nights and mornings. Appreciate all that you two do!
This was the most healing and soothing episode of ear biscuits ever. This one made me cry.
I always resonate more with Rhett because we're the same analytical, overthinking, logical type. But I think my desired end point is something more like Link's. To just be, the give and receive love, and to be happy and prepared to have no defense. I've never heard it put that way, but I think that works. Just to know myself and what I want and belief, but to feel no need to justify, explain or convince anyone of what that is.
You put my thoughts into the exact words
Listener since 2016. Link just moved me!! I don’t have another way to say it. Link gave me language to help me comprehend consciously things about myself and giving me insight and directional assistance to my own spiritual practice. So grateful for his Links willingness to be vulnerable. What a gift!😫😭😭😭😭(heart moved life changing tears) ❤
Link I will validate you by saying, I feel ya! So many similarities beyond belief of the shame, guilt, self-judgement of self and looking at my animals for inspiration of life and living!
I do resonate with Link a lot. My dogs have a wonderful ability to remain so present in the moment- they know nothing else. & they do inspire me to be that same way.
I love how they're super besties, and are so different from each other, but they are still best friends and still love each other as much if not more. They just have this unconditional love for each other. And unconditionally accept each other. Obviously they have tons in common, I'm just saying, they have the love and ability to grow and change in their own ways and continue to become closer in their friendship
I want to thank you guys; I was spiralling due to something completely outside of spirituality today, but this is helping me centre myself.
Listening to link say he's the happiest he's ever been made me emotional.
You have no idea how freeing these videos are for me.
The path is hard. And being surrounded by Catholic family makes me feel unwelcome to be who I need to be, who I feel like I am…
Thank you for these discussions. All 6 have been really important to me.
I understand 100%
I’ve listened to all of the deconstruction episodes over the last week and here’s what I’ve noticed. I, a 23 year old with little to no Christian upbringing, have the same spiritual beliefs and understandings as two men in their 40s who are dealing with/have dealt with a lot of religious trauma. I’m not sure what to make of that…but it’s a pretty good time😂
Loved hearing how y'alls paths are different yet similar. I relate to the long lasting feeling of shame that originated in religion. I find myself observing and learning lessons from nature in a similar way link does with his animals. Great listen!
goodmorning from california. cant express how much your guys stories have helped me ( someone who was raised southern baptist but still loves god but struggles with a lot of questions)
Check out the RUclips channel mike winger. He has great biblical teaching
“I am done with the deconstructing” - was powerful stuff Link!
There’s a lot more inner growth to do once the deconstructing is over. It is nice to see it! Next years episode on constructing your personal spiritual path?
this was an amazing episode....i love you guys...and love that Link got to express so much. He expressed so well.
I already listened to this episode on Monday, but I wanted to see Jade and Jasper. I totally get where Link is coming from. I think, deep down, we are still animals, and in this modern world with all the complicated challenges of functioning in the hectic environment, we too often ignore the animal side of us and try to push ourselves into a mold we aren't really intended to fit. Interracting with animals is a retreat from the complexity of human life, it grounds, it calms, it lets us be one with nature, and it reminds us of all the little things you can be happy about. And honestly, holding a warm, furry little bundle of love like a dog - it just brings you joy.
I've had a really challenging year, with multiple family members having serious health problems at the same time. Momentarily, my christian upbringing has made me question, if all this is because I can't believe in a god, if I'm being punished. But no, I refuse to go down that path. What has helped me through the year is grounding myself, finding joy in the little things, taking the calm moments to charge my batteries, and focusing on what is now instead of worrying about what comes next. And when ever I can, I hold my doggy sister and let her love me as much as I love her. All of this has given me moments of feeling happy and content.
I was just saying to myself as I was taking a walk with my dogs this morning and seeing them run and play and even potty, brought so much joy. Especially seeing their own personalities and goofiness, brought so much joy!
They are just themselves and living free and I want to be that way too!
Please do these every year. They help me so much.
Link’s cadence and deep breaths around 25 min were very meditation/yoga teacher of him! Like he was so present in that moment you could feel it
These deconstruction talks are so revitalizing. I absolutely think they are some of my favorite things on the internet as a whole.
Link is such a compelling presence
Link you seem so down to Earth like a leaf floating down the river and that really inspires me man
Link, I have a tattoo of my living cat, for a similar reason. He's almost a recharge for me. Being around him, as well as his new brother, is a feeling I love. 💕
Cats have saved my life. They are so sweet and loving.
The camera angle from 28:00 - 28:42 is the best.
I think all I need in life is a hug from Link. I believe it would solve all my problems!
I just want to say, I have a new found love for my dog all over again thanks to Link. This is like a revelation for me.
These past two conversations have been so healing for me to soak in
Great episodes! It feels so genuine and receptive and healthy and open. I think your enneagram personality types are on display in these conversations - what motivates you, your deepest fears and desires.
Link, you are Good. You are enough, just as you are. You bring good into the world. You are worthy of receiving love. We are lucky to receive the love and creativity you put into the world.
So glad you're happy and in-the-moment and receptive and mindful and grateful.
It feels good, true and beautiful!
I think this makes sense. Rhett has been the one to always want to fully understand and explain everything, and Link just wants to go along with the ride and is happy with that.
I really love the content of this episode, the packaging leaves something to be desired... love yall
I'm finally just watching this now but I think the reason what you guys are doing is healing.... is because of your genuine friendship with each other that for a few moments out of our day we get to be in that friendship. I may have never met you or talked to you, but for those 10-20 minutes a day you are my best friends. And that is healing regardless of whether you make me laugh or not. I love you guys and I'm sending you love!
*I hope that through you having and giving and receiving, we can all learn to receive and have and to give to others so that others can share in our having, giving, sharing, and receiving.*
I was not prepared for the impact this video would have on me.
It all makes so much sense.
Thank you for sharing with us!
I am 100% in agreement with Link - my spiritual journey was absolutely impacted the most positively by my doggie. She is the light of my life, and I learn from her what it is to be happy, give love and experience life. I relate so much to Link saying what he did, and am so happy to hear it is something he has experienced too.
This has been the most therapeutic and life-altering series of beautifully made videos I’ve ever seen. Rhett, Link, thank you-I hope to see this series continue as long as you can muster.
I just want to say ho much I love these series . I am going through some rough times and I don't enjoy many smiles but , man . Listening to Link trying to accept himself and dissmantle that inner critic is something that I'm doing right now. Now I have alot of hope for myself because of you. Im smiling on my way to work listening to these podcasts . Sextember too ! Thank you for this !
did not expect to hear the most gut-wrenching compassionate and beautiful words from Link Neal in this ear biscuit episode
What I think is interesting is that Rhett is talking about himself and his thoughts and Link is talking about his pets, his family and his fans. So I guess it's true that he had to find out where he is and where other people start. Rhett probably never had that problem. It doesn't make one a better or more intelligent person - it just highlights their different personalities.
What I admire about both of them is their authenticity in these podcasts.
I have been deconstructing for almost a decade now and I can say that I bottomed out into a purely nihilistic framework for perceiving reality after having picked apart everything that I was conditioned into by my evangelical upbringing. I consider it kind of like having had a Humpty Dumpty moment, having realized that fundamentalism was more of a tower of babel in of itself, I jumped off and shattered. I certainly consider myself having entered into this phase of reconstruction, and although my experience maps a little closer to Rhett's, I think my personality does as well, I actually see myself coming into Link's conclusions.
I find that I'm someone who has to describe his experience and so I engage with all of the naming of things. I research into the histories of the churches within Christianity and the circulating influences of philosophies that sort of interact with each other. I delved heavily into the eastern traditions of religion and philosophy and then I started getting even more introspective than I had ever been before.
I found two things that I could identify with. The first that grabbed my attention was stoicism, particularly the works of Plato and the dialogues of Socrates, and then I found some of the insights of the neoplatonic traditions that had served as a sort of a Roman Renaissance of the Greek philosophers. This is where I see myself in Link. He very much appears to manifest big Socrates energy when he basically quotes his maxim "true wisdom is knowing that you know nothing."
The second thing I found were the works of Lao Tzu and Chuang Tzu, "philosophical Taoism" as it's more generally known as. The first line of Lao Tzu's work, the Tao Te Ching, is "the tao that can be named is not the eternal Tao". And I also find that in both Rhett and Link. What turned me off to Christianity was that its history is overflowing with individuals who claim to know and understand and speak for God and the lack of consistency has been an endless source for xenophobia and even war.
I find myself, having delved deeply into the church fathers and even a book on the relationship between the Logos and the Tao (Christ the eternal Tao), and through this I have overcome the stages of grief I felt after having deconverted, but I can't reconcile myself with participating in the religion. My problem is that I very much have Link's desire to maintain humility towards knowledge and propositions, but I very much do still have a desire to participate in rituals and communities that aim towards the truth that Rhett speaks of. Participating in Taoism beyond the philosophy is either too little, in the form of tai chi chuan, or too much in the forms of Chinese folk paganism and alchemy. I think that taoism is ideologically superior to Buddhism, I think it maps better to reality as I experience it, so that's out of the question, and I find that one can't really participate in stoicism in a religious fashion, there just aren't rituals that don't involve Greek mythology.
I think I find myself lost in Rhett's sea of uncertainty after having jumped ship, but have drifted to an island and I don't know if I should be happy with the island as it is, or use its resources to build a ship of my own, so I remain uncertain. It just may be that uncertainty is the way and eliminating this need to participate in things beyond the present moment is how I must move forward. I have made peace with this potential.
I have to thank you guys for the depth of these conversations. A lot of people have gone through deconstruction and the communities that they were a part of are full of condescension and ostracization. I am alone, not even my family wants to engage with me in good faith conversation. RUclips is my only outlet for this and you guys create a safe space for the discussion of the nature of our relationships with reality. That is something greater in of itself.
i barely even use youtube anymore but i will always tune into every one of these. love y’alls transparency
Link you and I are in very similar spiritual places. Peace be with you my friend!💜
I wasn't expecting for Link to pull his dog from under the table. It made me laugh. My cats inspire me too!
THANK YOU for listening to us a couple episodes ago and getting rid of that multiple angle format and just doing a side-by-side split. MUCH easier on the eyes.
It made me so happy to see Link's excitement at the beginning of the episode; any trepidation for where he was and how he was expressing the state of his journey that I remember being present in the previous episodes of this series has melted away. This episode was beautiful to watch, and though it may be temporary, the happiness that he reiterated at the end of the episode was beautiful to witness.
Link you're kind of describing mindfulness but with animals and I'm here for it
Link, i feel you. this time last year i was riding life on the high that jasper and jade teach you about. Just living life completely effortlessly, and loving what happened. I need to get back to that, because i have personally lost a bit of that perspective, and gotten back to worrying about stressers and not enjoying my life
Listened to both these deconstructions on after the other, Just so good seeing two human beings speaking openly about how they think feel and love! You guys are amazing, brought myself some mythical merc the other day, brings smiles to ma face! Keep on doing what your doing guys, what your spreading is such a good thing!!
This was so healing to hear.
I am so proud of you Link. It makes me so happy to see how happy you are. I think you've really stepped into your truest self and I'm so excited to see what the future holds for you. I love ya, man. Keep being you!
I was raised without religion, I've always been agnostic and still am but I am also a Quaker, I'm from the UK and Quakers in the US are more religious but in the UK, you don't have to believe in God, or can have any other religious views
But we are bought together through silence, we sit in silence together, anyone can speak whenever they want, there is no structure or leaders and we can believe in equality, simplicity, sustainability, peace and truth. You can get the most amazing spiritual experience and connection to everything on earth
Wow. I just watched both deconstructions, I loved them both. I seriously think link is a genius for this. There seriously must be the key to life somewhere in the simplicity of it all.
For me I borrow a perceived “stability“from your shared relationship . I have always craved stability.thank you both sincerely 💕
I get you so much. Kate York - Both Feet On The Ground, incredible to listen to when you have walked away from religion
Loved this ep thank you and you motivate me to be my most authentic self ❤
Also after listening to the whole thing, Link I relate a LOT. Keep doing you 😊
With this podcast for sure I can't help but say.... Thank u so much for putting things into words
What you two do brings so much joy to everyone. It’s definitely a gift.
i think i follow what link is describing, and there's some layers of wisdom there. the practice of seeing an individual for what they are and especially what benefits their personality and actions bring to life can only bring you an appreciation for them, for other, for differences, and also help reflect on yourself with the same positivity. choosing animals is great because they are open books and don't judge you for analyzing them. but to do the same with people does seem to be the goal for me personally. i want to make a person and *myself* feel comfortable enough that i can learn who they are to the depth that our differences can be celebrated and appreciated.
Omg Link's interactions with his dogs this episode was probably the cutest most pure and good thing I've ever witnessed and it felt like my entire consciousness was melting and turning into the most pleasant sweetness. I don't even know man, I loved this so much! 😻
Links way of thinking is pretty inspirational, it made me giggle when he said he's making his own religion for himself but listening to all of it, it's pretty nice :) .... I might learn from this
I love Link. that's all I have to say
Link with his dogs is the most pure thing I’ve ever seen
love you both so much and love these episodes!!! so glad to hear about link so happy and thriving ❤❤❤❤
love you guys, great episode, please reconsider the dividing line?
Thank you both for your open hearts
The audio version for this was really confusing 😂
Just hearing link furiously sniffing
Better Help has a handful of scandals, they do not provide qualified therapists. I'm dumbfounded anyone still accepts sponsorships with them. The RUclips creator illuminaughtii uploaded a video today detailing everything wrong with Better Help. I seriously hope nobody trusts their mental health with that company, and I wish people would do their due diligence before accepting a sponsorship. Better Help as it functions today, is a company that shouldn't ever exist.
I left the Baptist church at 16, lost my faith at about 19, & gradually eliminated spirituality from my beliefs by about 21. Now i see religion from the outside & view spirituality as quaint. I think Rhett & Link will continue to evolve.
Everybody comes up with frameworks that work for them. Rhett especially went through a phase where he was 100% an Atheist ™️. I don't think you're more evolved for describing spirituality with such condescending words as "quaint." I also don't think you're less evolved. You're just working from your own experiences and brain chemistry to do what works for you. And that's chill. All of us should do that, as long as we're doing our best to be good people.
Good morning ear pod fam ❤
Absolutely loved, loved!! Link talking about his pets was especially great!! I also think we can learn a lot from animals. Being in touch with ourselves is huge and this whole deep dive that Link did was amazing! Resonated a ton with me. I know Link fumbled and tumbled a lot throughout this podcast, but it somehow got me hooked. Awesome work as always guys!
I'm not allergic to change. I like the new setup and it's growing on me too. This convo made me feel good. I am so invested in these creators. Is this what church be like
Curling up in the “now” and being loved. ~ Link
I grew up a Christian. Spent years in ministry. In the last year and half I’d say I’ve found that I don’t connect much with it anymore. I just have to say that personally enjoy hearing both your journeys of faith or spirituality. It helps me feel more comfortable where I’m at, and that there’s room for growth. Thanks for putting these out.
I just wanted to thank you guys for being instrumental in my deconstruction journey! Like Link I'm now the happiest I've ever been.
link i feel the same way about my dog. and let me tell you, to recognize all those amazing qualities in them means that all of those things are within yourself ❤ nice work :)
I just want y'all to know that your work is healing, because it leads the the three transcendental terms Link mentioned, the beautiful, the good and the true. Both Ear biscuits and good mythical morning have some elements of all three, but Ear Biscuits itself is where we get to see your true selves, and your true selves are beautiful. That's why I keep coming back, and always will. Forever a fan y'all, keep doing what your doing.
While it's nice to want to know where we came from and why we're here, it's tons more important to be good to the people regardless of belief and what you know or what you think you know. Kindness & understanding is the best practice.
It's so soothing when you realize "i don't know" is good enough 😌
I've learned so much from my dog. Most of it has to do with how I care for myself and the things I tell myself.
This was soothing to my soul.