My ENTIRE family are christians, I can't talk to my mom for more then two minutes sometimes without hearing something about god(she still thinks im christian) and I don't know anyone else who shares my beliefs, (im an atheist) and it's hard being around them sometimes. I can't really tell them I'm atheist either for one reason: my mom has a mental disorder and if I told her, I think she'd have a breakdown. I live with both my parents btw. any advice?
2007-03-04 13:23:41 · 22 answers · asked by David H 3 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
Usually when I'm around religious members of my family I've kinda learned to tune them out and just nod and agree. My fanatical aunt, for example, is always talking about God. I just smile and nod and sometimes throw in a "Thank God for that" or "Amen to that" when I'm talking to her. But I try to limit my time with her, too. It's harder when you live with a relative who is very religious. Unfortunately, based on the information you gave about your situation, it might be wisest to just put up with it until you're able to get a place of your own and try to limit your time with them or become an expert at changing the subject.
2007-03-04 13:36:32 · answer #1 · answered by swordarkeereon 6 · 3⤊ 0⤋
Wow, sorry some people just didn't hear you, or couldn't respect your beliefs (or lack there of). I would suggest just letting it go for now if you don't have the option to move out.
I know it's tough being around people who wouldn't be able to accept you for who you are if they knew. Sometimes people can be so degrading and pushy without even realizing it.
If your mother would have a breakdown, as you stated, then I think it would be best to let her think you are a believer until you can move out. I know it may seem like you're betraying her, but it's a catch 22. Either you suffer keeping your secret or she suffers knowing the truth.
I'm sorry, hard situation to be in.
2007-03-04 13:32:48 · answer #2 · answered by KJ 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Wow, this is awe-inspiring. Do you realise you're saving the world one person at a time? Because you've chosen to embrace reality, truth and the natural goodness of humankind we're another person closer to acheiving a society where women are mutilated for imaginary beings and people won't engage in the single most pleasurable act a human being can experience for the sake of feelling good itself.
Anyway, think of it like this: God is the adult equivalent of Santa Claus. Some people need to believe in him because they worry that come Christmas they'll be punished because they didn't think he was real, that they won't get any presents. So, just let your mom and dad believe. Be nice, but keep a cool head. You know Santa's not real, but would you argue with a 7-year-old about the likelihood of his existence?
The important thing for everyone to remember is that even after we stopped believing in Santa Claus we still got presents on Christmas Day; and just because Santa isn't real doesn't mean the love isn't. Peace out!!!
2007-03-04 13:38:21 · answer #3 · answered by Kwisatz Haderach 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
i dont suggest that you move out at all...they're your parents yes and they may not know everything and they may not always be right...but you should respect them.
I understand where you're coming from because i used to be in the same position. my mom was really "religious" and i wasnt. But instead of running away from the situation i actually tried to find out about her beliefs and I realized that she was way too religious and that wasnt good...i talked to a few people and I soon became a christian myself but i looked at it in a different way..i try to tell my mom that being a Christian is about having a relationship not somwthing religious..you can still have and not have to live a boring religious routine everyday.
maybe you should go to a youth group somewhere fun where you can enjoy time with yourself..and you might learn something and then maybe teach them something new and break out of that routine.
2007-03-05 09:10:34 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sorry to hear that you have become an atheist, but if your mom is a little mentally fragile then if at all possible just do your best in letting her talk about God. It might be uncomfortable for you but , hey, she is your mom and I would hope you both love one another. It sounds to me like you need to be the strong one here and let it go. It doesn't sound as if she is able to.
2007-03-04 13:30:15 · answer #5 · answered by garo g 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Ooh, tough one. I think you called it right when you said that your Mom probably couldn't handle the news of your being an atheist. So unfortunately, all you can do is nod and bite your tongue until you're able to move out of the house. In the meantime, although you can't choose your family, you can certainly chose your friends. Being able to share your situation with other atheists might help keep you sane.
2007-03-04 13:39:47 · answer #6 · answered by magistra_linguae 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
When I became an atheist I told my parents right away when I was sixteen and I became an Atheist. They raised hell at first. Well my mom did anyway but after awhile they learned to deal with it. If you are an adult you have a right to your own belief. People just have to deal with it.
2007-03-04 13:33:24 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think that there's another question under wraps here.
Are you family fanatics or religious ?
Cause is two different things. I believe that you have to start making your own way and eventually expose them to your point of view, to your new beliefs. So if you feel that you have grown and mature enough and ready to stand behind your beliefs start making your own wa in life.
2007-03-04 13:49:25 · answer #8 · answered by wanna_help_u 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
They are your parents, and you owe them courtesy at the very least. If it will offend them, then please do not tell them. The other answer was "move out". That is probably good advice, if you can. I notice you don't say whether you are still in school. One other comment, and you probably won't like it. Whether you believe in their particular religion or not, living with the true principles and teachings of Jesus never hurt anyone. No matter who Jesus was, his teachings are the foundation for living in peace and tranquility with other people. Don't make the mistake most so called atheists make, and disdain those teaching totally.
2007-03-04 13:29:57 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 3⤊ 1⤋
I managed to keep my mouth shut for quite awhile. In my, case, though, my parents were reasonable people. They didn't press or harass me when they finally found out.
In your case, I'd suggest just keeping a low profile until you're old enough to move out. Do well enough in school to get a scholarship somewhere and live your own life.
2007-03-04 13:33:13 · answer #10 · answered by Scott M 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋