Linux is a Monkey Wrench?

Someone commented on one of my posts the other day, stating that Linux is a tool and not a religion. Can this be true? I would hate to think that for the past 15 years that I've invested in Linux, it would turn out that Linux is merely a tool, a--dare I say it--a monkey wrench?

Say it ain't so.

I was about to put forth a new calendaring system to the International Standards Committee based not upon the movement of the earth, the appearance of a deity, or the calculations of long-forgotten tribes of ancient South America but upon the emergence of perhaps the world's greatest monkey wrench: Linux.

Now that does make me feel foolish indeed.

O woe is I when I think of the wasted hours I've spent pondering ways to enrich the lives of others by prophesying coming Linux-related events or the efforts I've put into proselytizing--bringing new blood into the fold.

Linus, have I mistakenly deified the creation and not the creator?

I realize that Linux is an operating system and not some sort of idol to be worshipped or deified. As fans, we do become somewhat obsessed with our passions and beliefs. If it sounds, at times, that I am attempting to start some religious war or that I'm off the deep end with my Linux fanaticism--just let me know and I'll reel in the reins a bit.

I am passionate about Linux, its capabilities, and its future so don't judge me too harshly. Linux isn't a religion but I have a hard time admitting that it's a monkey wrench.

Ok, I'll compromise. It's a very, very intelligent monkey wrench.

[Andrieux]

Aren't all operating systems tools? I mean, that's what computers are-tools. Isn't linux (or any other OS) just a nice, squishy, comfortable hand grip on that tool?

[Rashakil Fol]

You just love the sound of your own words.

[khess]

@Rashakil

No, I'm just awaiting yours and you never disappoint.

[Gallienus]

Have been using Linux for the past 5-6 years. Have 5 crashes in 6 years but some of those may be hardware problems. Windows max is 5 crashes in one day. If Linux is a monkey wrench, Windows is a very soft stone.

[soulinterface]

Let's call it a most spiritual monkey wrench.

[khess]

I like that--spiritual monkey wrench--that's good.

[WolfPack]

Gallieneus, what are you using? DOS? Or Vista on a computer meant for DOS? Don't say Vista or XP. If the hardware specs are met, they never crash. At least they have not crashed on me. And not for anyone who I know use Vista on machines with suitable specs. Makes me think that all those horror stories about Vista crashing are just marketing tricks created just out of spite.

[WolfPack]

Gallienus, what are you using? DOS? Or Vista on a computer meant for DOS? Don't say Vista or XP. If the hardware specs are met, they never crash. At least they have not crashed on me. And not for anyone who I know use Vista on machines with suitable specs. Makes me think that all those horror stories about Vista crashing are just marketing tricks created just out of spite.

[JuliaAdam]

operating systems are not just a tool... i think they are a complete way of living for computer applications and programs and much more....

[saadsaidi]

Depending on how much a Linux user experience is, the attachment and evaluation is. When a person divot him/herself to creating these so called "Tools", He/She will be giving a huge part of their time and in away or another their life. Yes Sir, Linux is a religion. When you spend hours talking to the compiler more than talking to your spiritual adviser or maybe yourself, or when you spend time reading C/C++ Bible for Linux instead of your holly book, I guess Linux is a religion.
Thank you for you contribution khess, this is the least thing to say.
And for the guys that think that O.S. are tools, I say this is your environment your world not just a comfy tool.