how do i break it to pretty religious that i don't and haven't believed in any form of religon?
2007-01-23 16:29:13 · 13 answers · asked by unoulvme 2 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
It depends on how old you are. If you're still a minor, they may not take it well, and they will also have the power to make your life miserable. They may force you into practicing their beliefs, or in some extreme cases, disown you. If you run the risk of your parents going crazy at the news their kid is a heathen, it might be best to keep quiet for the time being. If you're an adult, you don't have to worry about them having control over you. They may still take it badly and put a real damper on your relationship, but at least you wouldn't have to deal with them on an everyday basis.
If you do try and break the news, it's essential to remain calm no matter how worked-up they get. Even if you're furious, don't start shouting as it will only make the situation worse. Also avoid getting into a theological debate about who is right and who is wrong. If they pull out the old going-to-hell/condemnation line, simply say that, in good conscience, you simply do not and cannot believe as they do and leave it at that.
Finally, you might want to leave out the part about not having believed for a long time. Just say what your beliefs are now, then mention the history if it comes up at a later, more appropriate time. I've found that my relatives weren't quite as reactive if they thought I was simply going through a phase, which then made it easier for them to gradually accept and understand my position, and that it wasn't something I decided on a whim.
2007-01-23 16:48:15 · answer #1 · answered by phaedra 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I don't see why you can't humor them a bit. You don't need to tell them you are an atheist, just let them know you're not exactly into the whole religion/church thing if they ask or if it's relevant to the situation. If they flat out ask if you believe in God, then it's up to you if you want to 'lie' about it or not. If it's going to really hurt them, then sometimes it's a little better to lie especially when it's to older family members. There's really no reason to upset them since they obviously love you and just want the best for you. Fortunately, no one in my family ever asked me how I felt so I've been able to avoid it all these years.
2007-01-24 00:42:07 · answer #2 · answered by Pico 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
organized regilon is pretty bogus. But That dosnt mean u cant have spiritual beliefs. I would look into eastern religons or freethought or try an psychedelic trip of sorts
2007-01-24 00:35:13 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I told my parents, they still love me.
In fact, all my friends and loved ones know that I am. Not a single thing has changed between any of us!
2007-01-24 00:33:52 · answer #4 · answered by Bunz 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Let them read The God Delusion - it recounts one case of a minister, I think, that told his parents of becoming atheist, and managed to convince them too!
2007-01-24 00:35:40 · answer #5 · answered by eldad9 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Stay incognito.
That's me, though. I'm really private about this stuff in real life.
2007-01-24 00:32:50 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I still haven't told my parents.
2007-01-24 00:31:45 · answer #7 · answered by Upside Down Atheist 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
you are their son! you are their flesh & blood, without any doubt they would know yr stance in faith/religion...please give them some credit! no need to confess it to them, even if you do, they will continue to pray for you to believe, who knows, one day you may...
2007-01-24 00:36:37 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'd recommend you don't because honestly I think they would be very disappointed in you. Even if they don't show it.
2007-01-24 00:33:31 · answer #9 · answered by mrfame1017 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Don't say anything unless you crave drama.
2007-01-24 00:39:58 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋