From Hollywood Boulevard to the Auditor’s Chair

My Unexpected Path to Scientology

Photo by Alexey Taktarov on Unsplash

“You don’t get rich writing science fiction. If you want to get rich, you start a religion.” L Ron Hubbard, Founder of Scientology.

Scientology’s Reputation

I heard about Scientology while walking along Hollywood Boulevard with a friend in 2004. A smiling young man in a crisp, white shirt sauntered out of a building and asked if we’d like to take a personality test. I was new to LA and brimming with solid naivety, but my friend said, “No thanks,” and we walked on. He then gave me the low down on Scientology saying, “It’s a cult. They bring you in to watch a video and brainwash you. People give all their money to the cult and live in this big, blue building. They are never allowed to leave.” From that moment on, I was wary of Scientology and tightened up anytime someone would mention they were a Scientologist.

If you do not have access to the full story, click here to read for free.

I stay on the fringes of most clubs, cults, religions, or organizations, getting close enough to learn what interests me without letting it consume me. I learned when someone gets too involved in a belief system, rigidity sets in. I was born with enough rigidity. I like to find ways to be more pliable and flexible.