I finally told my parents that I'm an athiest, but they got really mad, and still force me to go to church and pray, even though it makes my uncomfortable. What do I do?
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Last Updated: 08/02/2024 at 3:59pm
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You can try to stand up for you beliefs and refuse to go if that is safe for you, letting them know that being forced won't change your beliefs and if anything might even make you even more convinced in your atheism. But if doesn't work or it's not safe for you to try, hold on until you'll be independent enough and free to do what you want, and don't hesitate to look for support from people that can actually understand what you're going through. This will not go on forever!
If you grew up with religious old school parents it will be difficult for you to say that you don't believe in what they believe in. The teaching of a Christian is one of the opposites of an atheist. Give them some time and speak to them about this again. You might need effort to put it in their heads that you are an atheist.
My family is religious as well, and I'm not. I work most Sundays on purpose so I don't have to go to church with them. When I do go, I try and make the messages work for me in my life, pretty much ignoring the God/Jesus stuff. It's still positive messaging.
Best of luck, my friend. I know it's not easy. You can't be forced to believe something you don't. I hope they'll accept you for you with time.
I am sorry they are treating you like that, I would go nuts! Honestly, you just need to stand your ground and tell them that you don't believe in 'God' and that you don't have anything against him and all religions, but that, that's who you are and you can't make them force you. Here's the thing, my dad is agnostic, his dad (my grandpa) was atheist and he was married to a hardcore cathlic woman (nothing wrong with that either, my grandma is the best). Now, she still forced everyone to church because that's just how it was. Now, my dad is grown up and doesn't conform to that, and I don't think his family even cared either. When you move out and have your own life you wont' need to worry about that. If your parents are really that butt hurt, well maybe they should read the bible a little closer and notice, pretty sure Jesus would be mad about someone who doesn't believe in God. Nothing wrong with you either.
Talk to them, try a compromise or explain with reason. Figure out the reason behind why you athiest and that should help
I can understand how hard it must be, if you are not comfortable going then it would be best to talk to them about it again
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