OFF TOPIC Re: Removing Shoes Indoors

[Paul McCloud]

I believe that there may be another reason to remove shoes.  I am
familiar with the customs of India, specifically the Hindu faith.  When
entering a Temple, it is customary to remove one's shoes because the
temple is sacred and should not be walked on with shoes. The temple is
considered to be part of God's paraphernalia, and thus nondifferent from
God.  Walking in a temple with shoes is considered disrespectful and
offensive.  Many temples have facilities for foot-washing at the door.
	 Many Hindu homes have a room used for God worship, and the householder
considers his house to belong to God.  So the home is considered a
temple.  
	Of course, in India, many people don't have shoes, so washing one's
feet is a good idea anyways.
	As a matter of fact, in the Hindu scriptures, God (Krishna) used to
wash the feet of exalted saints and sages when they would visit Him. 
The custom would include sprinkling the water on the heads of guests and
family members.  The purpose was to get purification from sins.  Any
person allowing his feet to be washed had to accept the sinful reactions
of those who would wash them, so faithful people try to take the
opportunity whenever possible.  At least they can try to touch the feet,
which is just as purifying.  Next time you see an Indian holy man,
surrounded by throngs of followers, note how they try to touch his feet.
	All you didn't want to know about SHOES and FEET.
	There was a book called "Steal This Book".  Advice on how to get almost
anything for free.  Need some shoes?  Just visit a Hare Krishna temple-
take your pick!
	Oh, by the way, don't wear another's shoes.  You'll get their Karma!
	Respectfully,
	Paul McCloud