I have a couple of friends who call themselves atheists. One is a Buddhist "priest", the other subscribes to a bizarre set of beliefs that are so convoluted, it is impossible to even attempt to discuss religion with her intelligently.
They quite often lament the fundamentalism that is prevalent in this area, as if their concerns affect the situation in some manner. It bothers them immensely that so many people 'believe in Jesus'.
Their "plight" got me to thinking a bit about the matter. Is it really anyone else's business whether I(or anyone else) believes "in Jesus" or "believes in God" for that matter?
I've come to the conclusion that my 'religious beliefs' are deeply personal matters and that I have no obligation to "bare my soul" to any stranger/non-stranger who may be curious.
Now, I shall admit that I have been(in the past) guilty of thinking that the personal beliefs of others was my 'business'. But lately, as my thinking on such matters seems to be undergoing a metamorphosis, I've come to see my beliefs as deeply personal and really no one else's business.
As I mentioned, it's just an interesting/postive change I've noticed about myself. That doesn't mean that I might not try to discuss religion with someone if they initiate the conversation, and are not too prying.
Not too sure about the purpose of this post, but perhaps someone might find some value in it.
They quite often lament the fundamentalism that is prevalent in this area, as if their concerns affect the situation in some manner. It bothers them immensely that so many people 'believe in Jesus'.
Their "plight" got me to thinking a bit about the matter. Is it really anyone else's business whether I(or anyone else) believes "in Jesus" or "believes in God" for that matter?
I've come to the conclusion that my 'religious beliefs' are deeply personal matters and that I have no obligation to "bare my soul" to any stranger/non-stranger who may be curious.
Now, I shall admit that I have been(in the past) guilty of thinking that the personal beliefs of others was my 'business'. But lately, as my thinking on such matters seems to be undergoing a metamorphosis, I've come to see my beliefs as deeply personal and really no one else's business.
As I mentioned, it's just an interesting/postive change I've noticed about myself. That doesn't mean that I might not try to discuss religion with someone if they initiate the conversation, and are not too prying.
Not too sure about the purpose of this post, but perhaps someone might find some value in it.
Darian R.
