In early December the Washington Times posted a lengthy article on the US Marines “expanding use of meditation training” — essentially, aspects of yoga and Eastern religions.  The article was little different than the ones noted here over the past several years, documenting the increasing official acceptance — and even mandatory use — of the physical aspects of some Eastern religions.

More recently, the FRC‘s Tony Perkins criticized the military’s incorporation of “meditation:”

In the military, it’s out with God — and in with the goofy!…As part some new training, Marines are being asked to join weekly yoga and meditation classes…

Former Army Captain Elizabeth Stanley…insists the new age approach “creates a sense of calmness, reduces drug and alcohol use, increases productivity, and improves working relationships.”
 
What a coincidence — so does faith!

Unfortunately, the military seems intent on driving religion out and replacing it with wacky substitutes. They’ve added atheist chaplains, Wiccan worship centers, and now, meditation classes. But none of them are as effective or as constructive as a personal relationship with God. Unfortunately, though, it’s mind over what matters — and that’s faith.

For the record, the US military hasn’t added “atheist chaplains,” though not for lack of trying on the part of atheists.

A few atheists have, though, previously complained about the US military’s other anti-PTSD/anti-suicide/total Soldier campaigns encapsulated in Comprehensive Soldier Fitness.  Some military atheists are principled and consistent, so they took the US military to task over this ‘mandatory religious practice’ of meditation, saying

.

…nothing.  Interesting that “spiritual practices” unrelated to Christianity don’t draw the same ire.

In truth, the military’s response mirrors society’s.  Yoga and other meditative methods derived from Eastern religions have become culturally accepted in some corners — though they have also been met by protest over their religious overtones.  Ironically, like the situation with military atheists, it isn’t generally the ACLU or atheists complaining about yoga being “religion in public schools,” its Christians.

In fact, Christians in the military have even offered specifically designed yoga alternatives.

It seems there’s a hypersensitivity not toward religion in public schools (and the US military), but toward the slightest hint of Christianity.  If you want to almost practice an Eastern religion, that’s not only ok, its also defended.

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