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? :mad:

I am so sick of people in general. :rolleyes:

If you are happy in your chosen path then I don't know you can say you are so sick of people in general.

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.

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.


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

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.

I am actually an atheist myself, and I hear a lot 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 hypocrites to there own religion the majority of the time. So try not to let it get to you too 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.

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.

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 don't 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.

I'm a christian, but I tend to walk the less pushy side. Some would say I'm failing in my called duties as a believer. I say there's a lot of ways to make a difference. I remember one meeting we had with members from three churches 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 doesn't preach to you might not get noticed, whereas the person damning you needs just seconds to push your buttons.

OK... the wildfires wearing off. What's the next drink?

Ps- you still haven't bought those red boots yet have you momma? You'd feel better with something to kick with, I promise...

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.

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.

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.

I know where you're coming from! Just tell them that you appreciate them sharing their beliefs with you. Tell them that you believe what you believe and will let them know if you change your mind. They are only being pushy because they truly believe what they are telling you. They are sharing their beliefs because they love you very much. Just tell them that you believe differently, but you appreciate their love and concern. Hopefully, they will ease off.

I don't pursue an active religion although my son was baptized in the catholic church because his dad is catholic. I didn't have a problem with that. I believe in 'to each his own'.

A client said to me the other day (who follows a religion she didn't specify) and I assume it is just one of those alternate new age, or old age to be more precise, religions, and I know she follows Riki (sp), that she feels sorry for people who don't believe in 'something' because it makes life fuller. I think she is right it completes a person.

I would encourage everyone to look up Maslov's theory and see if each one of you can say you are complete in each one of his stages.In my line of work which is healthcare believe that in order to treat someone properly, you have to treat the 'whole' person so they can realize their potential in every aspect of daily living. So you might say and it is true, believing in something, even if it is nature, is part of that too.

I rest my case **bowing***

I really am sick of people saying that.
If they are shoving it down to you. Shove it back and get it over with!

Just tell them that you appreciate them sharing their beliefs with you. Tell them that you believe what you believe and will let them know if you change your mind. They are only being pushy because they truly believe what they are telling you. They are sharing their beliefs because they love you very much. Just tell them that you believe differently, but you appreciate their love and concern. Hopefully, they will ease off.

Peggyhill has the right idea.

It's like when I was a new mom, and everyone under the sun (and especially my female relatives and in-laws) had something to say to me about childraising. My baby was never "right" -- always "he looks cold" or "he looks too warm" or "he's going to get sick if his stomach isn't warm enough" or "he isn't walking yet?" and on and on. To keep my sanity, I just smiled and thanked the person for her concern and suggestion.

Mm,

Atheists are 'coming out of the closet' at the present time. We see so many books by atheists that support the atheist worldview. These books easily refute the position that there is a GodAlmighty as depicted in the Bible. This is a reaction to the political situation in America where Christianity and Politics formed an alliance and attacked basic scientific truths; they attacked the public schools; they attacked the Constitution.

Perhaps, you can find some friends who are not so much into Christianity? Have friends that discuss other things besides religion? Then, you wouldn't feel so alone in your worldview.

I would say, as a person who became a declared atheist in the last several years, that it is important for your integrity to know the basic issues between religion and science, rationality and blind faith... for your own personal growth. Intellectual curiosity is one aspect of a well rounded individual, a person people love and respect.

Good Luck on Life's Journey!!

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...


Ah KP...

How's it going my friend? No, I haven't bought any red boots yet. I just can't see myself in red ones. A nice black pair would probably work well though...

You are right on the being in an area where people are more vocal part. I live in South Texas and atheist are scarce around these parts. If you tell anyone you are an atheist, they actually look at you like they are frightened or possessed by the devil. Small towns around here are like that though. Everything is focused around God and there isn't any other ways you are supposed to believe.

I don't usually show the people that are "damning me to a firery hell" that they are upsetting me but it does irk me quite a bit on the inside that they have the gall to say some of the things that they say to me. I got a letter from my old Southern Baptist Church (that I went to when I was a kid) last week. It said that the whole church is prayin' for me in my time or need and that they had put my name on the top of the prayer list in hopes that I will let God back into my life before its too late. I read it and was like "wow". That is what kind of set me off. LOL.

Anyway... thank you all for your responses. I appreciate it

Write them back, thanking them for their love and concern, but let them know you are not interested in believing in their god at this time.

Anyway... having lived with a minority religion in Texas myself... here's the joke that made me just smile and nod and move on every time someone drove me crazy trying to convert me. I don't take credit for the joke, but I've had it in my possession for years, so that I can read it every time the preaching gets really bad

__________________________________________________ _______________________

So, I'm standing at a bus stop and they pull up. A car load of well meaning, bible thumping nut cases that are just frantic! The middle aged professionally dressed woman rushes forward... She takes my arm and with trembling voice, she asks... "Have you found Jesus?" Her eyes plead with an urgency that is out of proportion to a bus stop.

Now normally I just politely decline the sermon, and free religious paperwork that such folk pawn off on unsuspecting by-standers. But, unfortunately for her, she is the fourth car to accost me in the last 9 minutes. So by now I'm beginning to wonder what the heck is wrong with these people. I mean if it's not Christians, it is the Jehovah's Witnesses. Can a simple Druid get no peace?

So calmly as I can muster, without being sarcastic, I reply, "You people lost him, again?"

The woman looks confused. This is not the response she was hoping for and she needs to regroup. She takes a deep breath intending to launch into her sales pitch for her God, and church, paying no heed to the concept that I might not be into being converted. I decide to not let her get going so I launch into a speech of my own.

"What is wrong with you Christians? Every time I turn around you've lost Him!" I hit her with a glare of accusation. "I mean really..." I take a measured breath. "How do you expect to have anyone follow a deity that you can't even find?"

The poor woman looks stunned. This isn't going so good. Panicked she looks desperately to the car... Surely one of the men can help... Undaunted I press on... "Maybe the problem is with you people. I mean Muslims never seem to loose their deity. Come to think of it neither do Jews or Pagans of any kind."

I look at the man getting out of the car. He's all smiles. "I realize you people used to burn people like me at the stake. What was that about... deity even? I may be a Pagan-heathen, but I have never ever woke up panicked that I couldn't find my Goddess or God. They are always right where they should be... In the fire of my candle, in the air that I breath, in the earth that I stand on, in the water of my spring. I never feel abandoned by my deity(ies)."

"Of course, you Christians aren't much fun," I continue. By now they are all out of the car. Befuddled, aghast, and at a loss for words. "Of course," I offer trying to give them some defense for losing Jesus. "He could have left due to religious differences. If I remember correctly, He was Jewish.

So if you are really so eager to find him," I smile gently to soften the blow, "Check the nearest synagogue. He's probably in there. Also you folks should try and remember that this is America... Where freedom of religion means ALL religions."

Slowly they climb back into their car and drive away. I stand at the bus stop... No pamphlets, no bible, no dogma. I haven't found Jesus, but I haven't lost him either.

LOL. Thank you for sharing that Synnen. I needed a good laugh today!

And your point is? And how does this comment fit with OP?
I just want to remind you that your signature full of scripture is longer than 90% of your actual posts.

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.

I just want to remind you that your signature full of scripture is longer than 90% of your actual posts.

A fair point there NK.

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? :mad:

I am so sick of people in general. :rolleyes:
Just to let you know an Atheist is someone who believes in nothing. Karma goes along with Hinduism and Buddism. All you are stating is that you are denouncing your Christian past. I feel very sorry for you that you were forced to do things against your will. But what you must know is that had nothing to do with God, that was people doing that to you, PEOPLE forced you, PEOPLE crammed Jesus down your throat. Jesus never said he would enter your life through your throat, he said through your heart and you would have to let him in. So soften your heart and your mind forgive those who wronged you. I will pray for you.

Just to let you know an Atheist is someone who believes in nothing. Karma goes along with Hinduism and Buddism. All you are stating is that you are denouncing your Christian past. I feel very sorry for you that you were forced to do things against your will. But what you must know is that had nothing to do with God, that was people doing that to you, PEOPLE forced you, PEOPLE crammed Jesus down your throat. Jesus never said he would enter your life through your throat, he said through your heart and you would have to let him in. So soften your heart and your mind forgive those who wronged you. I will pray for you.

Oh... I am sooo sorry Mr or Mrs. Bible Thumper. I didn't know there were certain rules to being an Atheist. Do you really think I don't know where Karma originated? I believe in the meaning of Karma. Just because I don't believe in a God or Goddess doesn't mean I don't have morals. Please don't feel sorry for me or pray to your God for me. I REALLY don't want you too. Just because I had Jesus shoved down my throat as a child doesn't mean I turned a blind eye to the religion. I tried to believe in God. I tried to believe in Jesus and the Bible, but in my heart I couldn't. I have tried to study other religions but none of them felt right. Only after I completely gave up the search did I find true happiness. I do not hold any grudges towards my family for the way I was raised. I believe it was wrong that I wasn't given a choice but that only taught me to give my son and future children a chance to choose what they want to believe in when they get older. Everything happens for a reason.

YOU NEED TO ACCEPT JESUS NOW OR YOU WILL DIE A SINNER AND BURN IN HELL! JESUS IS YOUR ONLY HOPE, YOU ARE COMPLETELY WORTHLESS AND HOPELESS WITHOUT HIM! REPENT! REPENT! REPEEEENNNNNNTTTT!

Haha, just kidding.

I know where you're coming from. I was raised Catholic- usually not as bad, because Catholics are more along the 'I go to church on sundays so I'm good, even though I slept through mass and gave some guy the finger pulling out of the parking lot' types of believers. But in my case, my mom has worked for the church since I was about 7 or 8, either in a church or as a theology teacher in a catholic school- so I was brought up to believe that if I didn't believe, something was wrong with me. Since she got a degree in theology and was also into the intellectual end of religion along with the experiential, it was okay to question things, but I had to always come back to church teachings and try my damnedest to align my beliefs with what the church teaches- but why, if I disagree?
When I came out of my own closet about three years ago (not the atheist one, the gay one) it caused such an uproar... my religious beliefs are pretty ambiguous to my family right now- I don't think they know much of where I stand in that arena. I figure that if they already think I'm burning in hell cause I'm a dyke, it may cause them to spring into a dangerous panic to know that I'm a dyke who doesn't believe in Jesus! I'll let the dust settle a bit before I bring that into the open- unless it comes up, in which case I have no intention of hiding anything either. But I'm letting them experience their disappointment in me in small, steady doses if possible.
But, over time, I've come to see how sad it is the way that so many Christians/Catholics think... if I am myself I am weak, but if I suppress myself to be who I'm told I should be... now that makes me strong and a warrior for Christ!
Come on now! Where's the logic in that?
Oh wait, logic isn't what I need... it's faith!
Which often just means 'I don't understand, but I need answers... so I must accept this since it's all I know'-
I used to try to 'straighten' my life out (pun intended!)- prayed, cried, pleaded with god, dated guys to try and do what's 'right' and then hoping the feelings would eventually come once I was in the situation... needless to say, it doesn't work. Ex-gays are just gays who can't take the pressure of those who disapprove, or who have been convinced that WHO THEY ARE is so disgusting (isn't that sad, for people who believe in a LOVING god?)... and they decide to stop being themselves to appease the church, their friends and family, and this oh-so-loving god who created them with an eternally damning defect. Is that love? From the church, friends, family, or god? I don't think so!
I'm not an atheist myself- I'm agnostic. I don't think we can ever really say with any certainty that there is or isn't a god, let alone know anything about him/her/it- people who attempt to do so and convince others of it always come across as being either arrogant or ignorant, in my opinion.
I am definitely a proponent of 'to each his own' and I believe what I believe, you believe what you believe, and we all can coexist, discuss, debate... but when it comes down to it, I don't desperately NEED you to agree with me.
I think THAT is more the sign of insecurity in your beliefs, more so than being upset and irritated by those who push their beliefs on you. What's with the desperate need for someone else to believe the same? Why are different beliefs such a threat? Why is doubt such a bad thing?
I don't know- as you said, your post was more of a way of venting your frustrations than an actual question. And I think my answer was more of my own venting than an actual answer.
Don't know if you'll get anything out of this... but I figured I'd post my thoughts.