"..I don't know you.
You don't know me.
You don't know the history I've got on these streets.
Only if you're seeing what my eyes have seen, then you'll understand..."
Time after time, well-meaning Christians have attempted to help me to see their way of belief, and overall, way of life. However, I'd like to point out: I have my own experiences, my own thoughts, and my OWN life. You don't know what I've seen, what I've done, what I've heard, and what I've said. Every little detail of my life; regardless of how small it may be, has contributed to who I AM. And a large part of who I am, is my religious belief: Atheism. I know that those who attempt to convert me mean well, and feel that what they're doing is in my best interest. However, I just wish they would consider that I didn't just pick a random decision. My ENTIRE LIFE has brought me to this conclusion. Quotes, tales of miracles..nothing will change this.
But, I'm wondering: does everyone feel this way? Do YOU?
2007-10-25 05:57:21 · 7 answers · asked by Anonymous in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
Does everyone feel that their entire life has contributed to WHO they are, including their religion?
2007-10-25 06:05:18 · update #1
Oh but I do, not in entirety, but I do
Why, because humans in nature and experience are not so different. Some have it worse, some better but this is the human way.
I ended up here due to a hard time in life, relationship this time. I can't say anyone has told me anything I don't already know or that I have heard anything profound that made a difference, only a few historical facts.
However the warmth and friendship I have found from relatively unknown and faceless strangers of all religions and ideologies has been a revelation. That my outlook and opinion of mankind and the world is healed and that there is at least for part some good in the world.
All my dear friends thank you
Edit:
What's that quote, know you hate quotes !!!! A man is judged upon the sum of his deeds, yes I am the way I am because of the way my life has been and what I have experienced and done, but that is to say that change is constant and one rarely remains in one place for long.
2007-10-25 06:11:31 · answer #1 · answered by Zappster (Deep Thunker) 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Yes. I do understand what you're saying but it sounds a little like, because of the life you had, there is no room for change.
I grew up in a home where both of my parents did not believe there was a God. It was actually criticized when Gods name was brought up. I'm 41 years old. I know that I am still young but this life has shown me more than the average persons life time. It doesn't matter what you have seen, done, heard or said in your life that absolutely sums up what you are as a person. If you knew my life you would understand. Everything directed God away from my life but I chose to go toward Him. I am not a make up of my experiences and influences alone. God was there guiding me the entire way and that is the make up of who I am. I don't believe in religion and I don't belong to a church or group, God has shown me everything. Nobody has taught me anything, shown me anything or gave me anything that has to do with God. From a very young child I always knew He was there. He took all the things in my life and gave me the wisdom to see the way to be different than what I've seen in life. Most of my life was not easy but I knew I was ahead in my mind and spirit. This allowed me to let go of any anger and bitterness so I could find peace and happiness which, I have. This is where I think you need to understand where the christians are coming from that approach you and want you to find God. They are trying to give you peace. Many religions and beliefs might disagree with my way of loving, praising or worshiping God. To me, that's between me and God and He loves me just the way I am. You don't have to feel like you have to do anything in another Christians way. I am open minded but I don't like it either when someone pushes their beliefs on me. I do understand that life can be rough out there but that isn't the time to give up on God. Just ask Him into your life and see what He does for you, not what He does for other people. Everyones plan is different and God will show you differnt things. I have to confess that I am trying to change your mind about how you feel only because I feel like its the only thing I know that can give you what I have. I don't have quotes, tales or miracles to show you. Just my heart. I hope you have a blessed life. Take care.
2007-10-25 13:43:18 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
I'm sorry... does everyone feel WHAT way? that Christians are trying to convert them into their faith? I'm sure to some extent yes... I know my MIL is still trying... And there are many who are confused by my beliefs and out of their sense of love and obligation, they try.... to convince me I'm wrong... but how can they know how I feel about something any more than I can understand the paths that they've walked?
When it happens to me though, I smile lovingly and if she asked a direct question, I respond with a sincere sounding - "Wow... you've given me a lot to thnk about. thank you for your perspective." and then I let it go...
I make no promises...I make no commitments...and I love her for where she is without judging her.
EDIT: Sorry - YES - Where I've been and the experiences I have had all add up to make me who I am and have GREATLY influenced my religious beliefs or lack thereof... that's why I feel it IMPOSSIBLE to convince someone to believe as I do... they haven't experienced the things that led me here....
2007-10-25 13:04:07 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
You make a really great point. People think they know so much about what is right or wrong, but how could they possibly understand your own personal experience or perception? ...And yes, I do feel the same way as you. All of my life experiences helped form the opinions and world views I hold today.
2007-10-25 13:02:19 · answer #4 · answered by Linz ♥ VT 4 · 4⤊ 0⤋
The "uniqueness" you perceive as your individual life experience is absolutely insignificant when compared to all of human history and experience that has gone into making you a human being like all the rest of us.
Said another way, 99.999999% of who you are is common to what makes everybody else who they are.
Given that explination, is it any wonder that Christians are trying to save you? Mostly, they are trying to save themselves.
You DO know me.
I DO know you.
We all pass each other on these streets every day.
I have seen what your eyes have seen,
For we all see alike with eyelids closed.
Open your eyes and see with the sight of all.
.
2007-10-25 13:20:56 · answer #5 · answered by lunatic 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Do I understand your viewpoint currently? Yes.
Do I realize that some 'well meaning' 'Christians' have taken tests (even though they may not realize it yet) and failed it? Yes (In many cases in USA presently, more than one).
Do I realize their 'failure' to apply the principle's of Jesus may be 'turning off' others, such as atheists, agnostics, etc? Yes.
If you want more; please email me here soon!
2007-10-25 13:27:34 · answer #6 · answered by jefferyspringer57@sbcglobal.net 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
I am starting to understand that a lot of atheist like to honor themselves and their understanding of the universe.
2007-10-25 13:05:31 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋