Will Smith Has Given Scientology the Boot

I have been wondering for some time now whether Will Smith and his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith were going to join the Scientology camp, at the warm recommendation of their close friend Tom Cruise. But it would seem that it's no joy for the ardent followers of what has grown to be regarded as a "bizarre sci-fi cult" - Will and his wife proved that despite allowing their kids to start their acting careers at very early ages, they do have a more realistic vision of life than I would have given them credit.

"I don't necessarily believe in organized religion" Smith stated. "I love my God, my higher power, but it is mine and mine alone, and I create my connection, and I decide how my connection is going to be. I believe that my connection to my higher power is separate from everybody's. I don't believe Muslims have all the answers and all the beliefs. I don't believe Christians have all the answers and beliefs, or that Jews have all the answers". Well, and there I was expecting him to spill the beans on Scientology and talk about how one's influence in their ranks is connected to the size of one's bank account. Well, maybe next year.

I'm sure Tom must be pretty pissed at his friend's attitude - especially since Will's wife Jada is still said to be actively involved in the Church of Scientology. Which makes me wonder, what did she find out, or didn't find out that made her stay. As for Will... he seems decided not to point any fingers. "I was introduced to Scientology by Tom and I'm a student of world religion" he said. "I was raised in a Baptist household, I went to a Catholic school, but the ideas of the Bible are 98 per cent the same ideas of Scientology, 98 per cent the same ideas of Hinduism and Buddhism. When I sit and I talk with Tom, he is one of the greatest spirits that I've ever met - someone who is committed to making the world better" Smith added about his views on religion.

I can indeed believe that every one of us has the right to freely express, manifest and practice their religious beliefs - but any man who claims Tom Cruise is a "great spirit" and wants me to believe he's in fact working to save the world is at least 98% delusional in my book. He is no doubt talented, but from here to seeing him as an answer to all our prayers there's still a giant leap to take.