How do I deal with a religious family as an atheist?
LaneyBot22
on
Jul 15, 2016
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I suffer the same issue, and I know it can be very difficult. Sitting down with you family and making agreements that are respectful to both parties is a very good idea and often works.
Anonymous
on
Jul 23, 2016
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You can try to deal with a religious family as an atheist by either referring them to someone else or trying to understand them
SilverLily16
on
Jul 24, 2016
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You should respect your families beliefs as they should respect yours. Do not try to push your beliefs on them and do not mock what they believe.
Anonymous
on
Aug 4, 2016
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As an atheist, i'll deal with a religious family with logical argument and scientist's language (i am french excuse my english )
Tiffany88
on
Aug 5, 2016
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Don't engage them with your ideas. If they are unaware that you are atheist they will not pursue you or attack your beliefs. There is no real harm in being religious. For many is a comforting experience. If somebody else comes out as an atheist, however, support them.
Anonymous
on
Aug 6, 2016
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If a religious family member is actively trying to 'convert' or 'recruit' you, you may tell them something like "I respect your right to your beliefs, but am truly not interested in this. Thank you for understanding." If you feel up to it, this may be a great opportunity for some insightful religious discussion. You could say something like, "Why do you feel it is so important to convert me to your religion?" and calmly explain why you are still OK without it as they present their reasoning. Being calm and respectful is important. This way the family member may come to better understand you without seeing you as being disrespectful or dismissive. In extreme circumstances, where the family member is being hurtful or persistent, consider writing them a letter explaining how their actions are affecting you and how you merely want to happily co-exist with them without the pressure. As far as how to deal with religious family in general: just like when you go to a foreign country, the family's house customs should be respected without being forced. If there is controversy within the house because of religious tensions, a good old fashioned heart-to-heart conversation is probably called for.
HelpWisely
on
Aug 6, 2016
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By accepting that every person is entitled or has the freedom to believe or not believe in anything he or she wants to. Also see that life is functioning on its own and is not dependent on any person's belief or lack of it. Life is exactly the same for the theist, atheist or agnostic.
helpfulHeart67
on
Aug 7, 2016
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You can start by telling them that you respect their beliefs, but have a different opinion. I would respect them I every way possible even thought I have a different view on things.
Supergirl94
on
Aug 10, 2016
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Accept their beliefs, ask them to accept your own and make peace with your differences. Just love each other :) Don't have any expectations of them and ask them to have no expectations of you when it comes to religion. That you have your own thoughts on things and you can discuss it if you wish but not judge each other or expect either of you to change your beliefs.
skylerraber1234
on
Aug 11, 2016
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Families are usually understanding so you could just be open about what and what not your beliefs are. You family might not approve but they certainly shouldn't disown you because your beliefs are yours to believe in. Hiding your feelings could complicate the situation further in the long run. Also, you could talk to your pastor or whoever you respond too and see why you feel the way you do about god or any religion.
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