I'm 18 and I want my parents to understand that I would like to be able to choose my own spiritual path, but I don't want to hurt them or cause a confrontation.
2006-09-23 15:47:32 · 15 answers · asked by Michael H 2 in Family & Relationships ➔ Family
I'm not really interested in religion, I think a persons actions define who they are and if they go to heaven, not what religion they are. I'm more interested in philosophy than religion.
2006-09-23 15:59:50 · update #1
Hi,
It sounds like you have put a lot of thought into this. Parents mean well & it seems yours have done a good job of providing you with a foundation on which to build your own spiritual path.
Religion is a very personal relationship between an individual & God. Everyone in our country is free to practice any religion they want, or no religion at all if that's their preference. You are an adult now & capable of deciding what works best for you.
Here are some thoughts to consider:
There is no "right" or "wrong" religion.
No one religion can possibly meet all the spiritual needs of all the people at all times in their lives.
Beliefs are always evolving as we gain greater understanding of ourselves and our connections to others.
You do not have to decide what religion you want to join before you tell your parents that their religion is not the right one for you at this time in your life.
Exploring different religions to learn more about them is always an option. This could be done through books, internet sites, or maybe you could attend a few services at other churches to see if there is one that is better suited for you.
Lastly, keep in mind that a person does not have to attend an actual church in order to be a spiritual person. Going to a particular church does not guarantee becoming a better human being. Organized religion is not for everybody. What is more important is being a good person & having a relationship with God that is meaningful to YOU.
Good luck
2006-09-23 16:45:01 · answer #1 · answered by julie j 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think it might be good to just go along with them awhile. All of us have to choose our own spiritual path, but if they are like most religious parents they are determined that you be the same as them. Some parents can't realize that the more they try to shove their beliefs on you the more distance it puts between you. If you are really serious about being spiritual, then do the mature thing and respect your parents' beliefs. If it makes them happy when you go to church, or temple, with them, do it. You never know how long your parents will live. If you choose a different path, keep it private until you are very sure. Then like a mature man casually and tactfully bring it up and ask their opinion of it. Invite them to take part. I think most parents desperately want to have some influence in their children's lives after they are grown. Take advantage of it, and you be the one who walks the higher path, and have patience with them like they must have had with you when you were a little kid.
2006-09-23 15:57:19 · answer #2 · answered by Paul 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
In my honest opinion, there is no easy way. Your parents expect for you to keep the same religion from childhood through adulthood as with most parents. However, if you are seeking a separate "spiritual path" from your parents just be honest and forthright about it. If they react negatively---then try to remain calm and see if you can continue the discussion at a later date. In this way you can prove that you are behaving as an adult would and not a child who responds to the word "no" by having a temper tantrum. Incindentally, you did not mention if you were still living at home with your parents.? If you are I would definitely not press the issue---but still present your desires in a way that does not cause your parents to brood over your decision.
2006-09-23 16:03:21 · answer #3 · answered by roddy 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I guess it depends how strong they are about their religion. But, because they are their parents, and you are an adult now, the direct approach is the best approach. They might not be happy about it, but as parents, it is not their job to decide everything for you. They can only raise you the best that they can and make sure that you are set on the right path morally.
2006-09-23 15:52:07 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
religeon isn't something that should be forced on anyone.just tell them in a nice way that you respect their beliefs but when your ready for that you would like to be able to make that decission on your own. i know they are just looking out for you but sometoimes parents tend to push a little too hard which causes the other person to turn the other direction.i'm sure they will understand.good luck
2006-09-23 15:58:35 · answer #5 · answered by THE SHADOW 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Tell them that you are an adult and you need to make your own choices now and want to find your own spirtural path as you respect them and their choices they can now respect you as you go and find your own way in life good luck 2 U
2006-09-23 15:51:14 · answer #6 · answered by AngelVirgo9206 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think the first thing is to find out what you want to believe in. What faith you want to follow. Then tell your parents what it is and why you feel it is the best choice for you. I was raised by a very strict lutheran family, and I hated it! Now I am catholic and I love it, it fits me!
2006-09-23 15:50:49 · answer #7 · answered by ladydragondale 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
if your parents love you and you arnt doing something like demonic or anything then they shd let you explore your options. Maybe try explaining why you would like to look into this religion and try to help them understand
2006-09-23 15:51:59 · answer #8 · answered by milkmaider2000 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
It doesnt matter which way you tell them, they will still feel hurt or dissapointed in you for not following what they taught you, so best thing to do is be honest with them and just say what you feel.
2006-09-23 15:50:53 · answer #9 · answered by ll_Zodiaco.Piton_ll 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I HAVE HAD THE SAME PROBLEM WITH MY PARENTS . I TOLD THEM THAT I BELIEVE IN GOD BUT WHAT IS WORSE GOING AND NOT LIKING IT OR JUST WAITING UNTIL I DECIDE I WANT TO . JUST EXPLAIN HOW YOU FEEL THE TRUTH WILL SET YOU FREE......
2006-09-23 15:57:15 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋