has anyone since coming to R&S....?

Question

opened up more to the beliefs of others ?

has being in R&S taught you that people aren't so different after all ...
perhaps you had misconceptions about others beliefs before and they have changed or you are more accepting of them now ?

Answer 1

I had never actually met a Pagan or Wiccan, so it was interesting to hear about their faith from their intimate perspective. I understood about Wicca from only reading literature, and understood that it was not the same as satanism, by far. I thought Pagan and Wiccan were the same thing, but now I know differently.

I hear the Muslim people on this site express their frustration at being considered an unpeaceful religion. I have opened my mind and heart to accept what they say, and believe that it isn't fair to convict an entire religion of hate for the actions of a few people.

Answer 2

I think I've been opened up to a broader spectrum of beliefs than I ever gave particular thought to. Certainly gained a lot more respect for Buddhists since I came here - not that I was particularly disrespectful of them before, but to see people with their faith in action like that is really positive and life-affirming. I've also been given a reminder that there are really good, positive Christians out there, which has been useful. I've met quite a few before in real life of course, and had great times discussing their religion with them. But I have a feeling I always felt a little superior while doing it. But being here, I've been reminded that most people have the same basic needs - to feel good about themselves and to make a genuinely positive contribution to the world, to feel they matter (either through personal action or religious conviction). Of course, I've also encountered a great deal of terrifying certainty and rigidity here, but the continuous effort of good people can break down pillars of doctrine and reach the humanity inside. That, I suppose, is the closest thing I have to a statement of faith, and it's been fired by meeting some of the people I know on here.

Answer 3

as a teenager I left Christianity, because there was so much judgemental-ism in the church that I belonged to, it took me years to realise what the true meaning of being a Christian really was, since being on R&S I have come to see, that as in every belief there are good and bad, I probably read more questions and answers than most on here, and I have seen the hate coming from almost every type of belief. but I have also seen the love that has come from the same beliefs, and i realized that you cannot judge a belief system because of it participants.
when we can look at a person and not their belief system then we will be able to come to a better understanding of each other.
Is it necessary for us to attack someone because of their belief? NO.
is it necessary to try to convert others to our beliefs?
NO.
is it necessary to show the best of what we believe?
DEFINATELY.
when we all start showing love and compassion, and understanding of others, then the world will become a better place.
can we look past the TROLL, and hate mongers, and see the truth in each other person right to choose what they believe?
I can only hope so.

Answer 4

When I first came to YA's I had more of a live and let live attitude towards fundamental Christians, after reading the stuff they say to people they consider to be sinners, the preaching of hell and damnation etc I am aghast and amazed at their narrow minds, I realize now the damage they cause and the misery they spread. I am now convinced a world without organized religion would be infinitely better. I believe fundamental christians are a breed alone. I am sadder about America because it seems to be the most vocal majority are bigots and don't seem to have orginal thought. Fundies appear to be like flowers that never blossom into a anything unique, the indoctrination process during childhood seems to keep them at an undeveloped bud stage. The words they spout spread misery...

Answer 5

When I first came on to R&S I knew nothing about other Religions and I have learnt so much now, I think it is good for people to read about other peoples beliefs and I have made wonderful friends, some of who are not of my faith but that does not matter, friendship is more important

Answer 6

Very much so - I've found many friends in here I wouldn't run into physically. And understanding my beliefs are mine, not everyone's, gives me opportunity to speak with anyone who will respond. I didn't really have misconceptions as much as no conceptions.

I am honored to call amongst my friends: wiccans, witches, atheists, spiritualists, christians, muslims, satanists and many more.

Answer 7

Not really. I have always kept plenty of friends who have different beliefs and I like to read a good bit also. But it is fun to joke around about beliefs to break some tension, which I see happening here at least between my friends.

Answer 8

Not a lot. What I have learnt is that there are fewer true Christians than I thought. Intolerance, revenge and hatred of others has no place in Christianity.
And also, that there is a lunatic fringe in all religions.

Answer 9

To be honest what I've seen more of is intolerance. It completely amazes me how many people judge others for their beliefs. My religious beliefs have always taught me to treat others with love and respect.

Answer 10

I have a better understanding of other beliefs. This site has been making my own faith stronger.

You are right, we all are humans and not so different after all.