What's the best way to let my parents know I am not interested?

Question

in Christianity? They've been making me go to church for as long as I can remember and I'm sick of hearing the same crap over and over again. What's the best way to convince them to let me choose my own religion, one that's really right for me? Also, what do you think would be the best choice: Buddhism, Atheism, or Wiccan?
Polite answers are requested, thanks.

Answer 1

In Buddhism, it is understood that all explanations are better internalized if they are crafted to suit the audience; to suit the context. That being said, you know your parents best and how to talk to them, their temperaments and such. Knowing this, you should apply your knowledge of your relationship with them while crafting a way to say "We all make our own decisions one way or another. No matter what you may say or do, ultimately I make the decision on how to act and think, and I think Christianity does not fit within what I know of reality and I need to explore other options before my beliefs can be settled."

Also, being a Buddhist, I would implore you to discover Buddhism and what it means (it's actually a form of Atheism). Hopefully there is a local place you can go and ask some questions, but wikipedia has a ton of info, let alone the internet. While doing you research, remember that Buddha said his words were never to be taken on faith, but were to be analyzed and compared to your own internal experience to see if it made sense. Also, keep in mind that not all of the writings (or portions of writings) are meant to be taken literally and things that don't make sense should be applied more metaphorically, not to mention that some writings, such as koans (kinda like riddles), are purposed such that they wear out the intellect before the meaning can be understood. Anyways, I hope you find your answers in whichever path you follow.

Answer 2

If you're underage, and still living at home with your parents, I suppose there's not a whole lot you can do. You should try telling them, as respectfully as you can. However, they may not listen. Just try to relax and wait it out. However, even if you're being forced to go to church services of a religion you don't subscribe to, that doesn't mean you can't start exploring alternatives on the side. I too left the church a long time ago. Wicca has worked for me. However, I can't claim it will be right for you. My advice is to give yourself permission to hold off on making any decisions now, and just enjoy a period of learning about different faiths and philosophies, including atheism. When something feels right through and through, you'll know your path.

Good luck to you.

Answer 3

If you live under their roof and depend upon them for assistance, there is not much you can do about it.

This type of belief runs deep to the core of how we identify ourselves, and they will not lightly allow you to go.

My only suggestion is (If you can take the heat) is pick up some information that mirrors your questioning in the dogma.
You probably have the same questions that other people have voiced before, and you can probably glean a lot of information from those arguments.

Now, show an interest. TOO MUCH of an interest. Start questioning. Tell them you have found a new interest, and want to learn more...

(Also, I'd pick up some arguments on why it's OK to question religious authority)

When your parents can't answer your questions- threaten to start asking people at church.
If you are lucky, they may consider allowing you to stay home before you cause an embarrassment.

OR / AND

When you say "I don't' want to go" you can argue that you believe that they are preaching false dogma (reguardless you believe it or not). And say you want to go to a friend's church and try that one out.....

Then just don't' go.

It may be more accepting to them to allow you to go to another church due to personal beliefs WITHIN their belief system then it is for you to say "I don't' believe what you believe".

Good luck. If you are not ready to do this. Just smile, eat the cookies and cool-aid at bible study and stick it out until you are 18.

Answer 4

You need to realize that your parents may have a negative response to anything that you state, as most people do not like when someone questions their religion, and you not interested is indirectly like you questioning the beliefs.
However, you must do what is best for you, since it is your life. You will have your beliefs and opinions that may or may not differ from your parents, which is not a bad thing. However your differing opinions and beliefs must be approached with your parents in a adult manner, with no emotion on your part. Anyone who gets emotional in a discussion is ultimately the losing party, since they may not lose the discussion, but they lose respect. Stay true to your course and good luck on any future decisions, with which you have already made a very mature one realizing that Christianity is not for you.

Answer 5

Be honest, even if it is to tell your parents that Christianity isn't for you (at this time). Find out what you can about other faiths and belief systems, and see what "fits" you. Even if you don't know exactly what it is you are looking for, make the effort so you have something better to tell your folks than "Let it go!" when/if they start badgering you.

My own persuasion is Atheist/Agnostic, though I have great respect for Buddhism. However, my parents and grandparents were Christians - Anglican and Lutheran being the most mentioned - though I never had to wage a battle to get out of church since we never really went. (My father always thought there was something better to do with his Sundays.)

Good luck to you, and I hope you find what you're looking for (even if all it amounts to is "Thank God It's Friday!").

Answer 6

Try playing sick every weekend until they catch on. That's what I did. Took them a few months though. I'm pretty happy with atheism. I guess people choose Buddism if they feel the need to still be spiritual if not religious. If you want the nature part, go with Wiccan - but don't bother with the magic stuff; it's no more real than a god.

Answer 7

This may be something that your parents will just not let go. You should try working on them one at a time!
It does not hurt to hear them out.
I too am kind of rebeling against my mother for making me attend church every week when i was a child and now that i am 27 with kids of my own i haven't attended church for the sake of attending for many years because i now have a choice.

The best advice that i can give you is stay positive and GOD will lead you in the right direction.

As for your choices that you have pointed out they are all very different and you should do what suits your mind best.

hope this helps and good luck
thanks for the points

Answer 8

Personally, I would sit them down and explain it to them in an adult manner. If they can't understand that, then they do not understand the Christian religion themselves. You need to explore your interests and beliefs before just choosing a religion. When you find a religion that shares YOUR values and beliefs, then you will know where you belong. You may never find one and that is okay. Your beliefs are all that matter.

Answer 9

Are you looking for a religion that pleases you or are you looking for a religion that pleases God?
We all have the right to pick our religion but be prepared to receive persecution from your parents. Choose wisely. Do research on all religions before you jump into something that you may regret in later years.

Answer 10

your parents are just trying to help you. Church is fun if have an open mind to it. If youve just decided that its stupid and you dont like then your harden your heart towards God. Maybe it just the way the church is preaching to you about God. Ask them if you can go to a different church or something. If they are not up for that then try to find some friends that have another view of the story. Most importantly have an open mind.
GOD BLESS YOU!