What is wrong with people that think I want them to shove their religions down my throat?

I grew up in a very strict Southern Baptist home and was forced to go to church every Sunday and Wednesday whether I liked it or not. I had so many doubts about christianity my entire childhood. Every time I would go to the pastor or my dad they would tell me to not question God and to have faith? How can you have faith in something you can't understand. After I left my parent's home, I researched christianity a lot. I realized afterwards that there was no way for me to possibly consider myself a christian anymore. I tried to look into other religions but could never find one that worked for me. I have been an atheist for the past 4 years, but have only come out as one this year. I can't believe the way people freak out on me for believing the way I do.

How is it okay for someone to sit there and tell me that God is the only truth and there is none greater than He, but when its my turn to speak about how I believe in Karma and living in the right, I get told I am going to hell for not believing?

I am so sick of people in general.

tickle

If you are happy in your chosen path then I dont know you can say you are so sick of people in general.

shygrneyzs

You can believe what you want, I do not care and I am not forcing my beliefs on you. You deserve to have the same respect shown to you as you show to others.

margarita_momma

I never said all people are forcing their beliefs on me. Its mainly my family, friends and co-workers. I have never disrespected anyone's religious beliefs and I never plan too. I listen all day to my family and friends talking about church and God and their blessings and such and never say a word. They know now that I am an atheist and automatically think I want to challenge their beliefs. I am labeled a heathern and am going to burn in hell if I don't repent and start loving God. This post was mostly just a vent. Sorry

savedsinner7

To me, saying what you've said can be taken the same way that I would share my beliefs. You are free to say that you have no belief in God and why you choose to believe that way. I am free to tell you that I believe in God and why I feel that way. If you see this as "forcing it down your throat" perhaps you should look at the strength of your convictions. A person who is firmly rooted in their beliefs is not likely shaken.

pluckyflamingo

I am actually an atheist myself, and I hear alot of the same from chistian people. However, if you have read the bible at all in a summary that they are not judge so they should not judge. They are just being hypocrits to there own religion the majority of the time. So try not to let it get to you to much. If you are happier the way you are and feel I would just run with that instead of pretending to believe in something else to make other people happy.

shygrneyzs

True, why so forceful on defending why you do not believe? When people start "in on" you, why can't you ignore them or simply say you are no longer interested in what they are talking about and walk away? When you stand there, they are sure to talk to you, thinking that perhaps they can change your mind. Possibly also because they know this is a trigger point for you.

kp2171

well it sounds like i need to buy first round tonight.

first shot is a wildfire: tequilla with tabasco

and how about a song on the box... i was going to fall back on my al green or springsteen or thorogood, but since momma's ticked tonight we'll start harder.. how about space lord by moster magnet? there we go. drink up.

i always wander aimlessly in a question like this. i think you should be treated with respect. i think people who believe in their religion wholly dont always have a lot of room, depending on what they believe in, for other "options"... its not like shopping at the mall for shoes that look the best and feel the best.

im a christian, but i tend to walk the less pushy side. some would say im failing in my called duties as a believer. i say theres a lot of ways to make a difference. i remember one meeting we had with members from three churchs who were doing charity work for women in need. some in the meeting were almost afraid to use the word "God" in front of the people we were helping for fear of pushing them away. it was bizarre to be in a church with a few believers acting like "God" was a four letter swear word.

so.... the problem is a few things. first, you are in an area with probably more vocal populations that tend to be more fire and brimstone. second... you only are going to hear noise from those who make it... meaning the believer who does hear you and listen and who doesnt preach to you might not get noticed, whereas the person damning you needs just seconds to push your buttons.

ok... the wildfires wearing off. whats the next drink?

ps- you still havent bought those red boots yet have you momma? youd feel better with something to kick with, i promise...

firmbeliever

kp,
Nicely said!!

Those of us who believe totally in our religion like to keep to the guidelines straight and not waver.
And you are right,most will notice those who hit you smack on the face than those who are on the sidelines.

Wondergirl

I grew up as a preacher's kid in the South. Kp is so right! I know others will get in your face and push your buttons. You're going to have to learn how to dance, not necessarily to their tune, but at least be out on the floor spinning and twirling to your own music. Maybe the two different tunes will begin to blend together a little if you can find positive things to do together to help those creatures, animal and human, who are less fortunate.