Yeah, it's crazy. I chose the individual path over the group thing because I don't trust anyone since my ex left.
It was something I needed to do though. I was spinning out of control wether anyone realized it or not. Mostly they didn't because I used to be very good at hiding my demons.
I still am, but it's for different purpose now. I'm trying to get right with myself.
To me, the higher power is always within but I don't begrudge anyone else who thinks it's some sky lord that they owe their praise to.
I own my own gun and have a concealed carry permit but I don't make it my religion. It's just scary the way things are going and in defense for my friend he was fairly disturbed by that experience as well but he sees the church outside of the box that he's in. It makes him feel better so I feel better and can criticize when I need to, much like he jabs at me for making independent decisions that might be a little off the reservation.
That's how we're buddies.
We talk each other down from the ledge on a constant basis and hug when necessary.
I have a meme that I often send him with Jesus and an AR-15 strapped since that time. LOL He sends me memes of structural failures within building construction and stories about locks getting picked.
We push each other to be better and accept ourselves and our limitations. We take responsibility for our actions and are never afraid to admit a mistake.
If only others could be that way, we'd have one wonderful society.