In no way do I want to offend, but-
By lovelylizzie
@lovelylizzie (327)
United States
July 2, 2007 6:18pm CST
I'm not a religious person. I was born and raised catholic. I'm now 26 years old, married to a wonderful man and have gorgeous twins. We are not religious whatsoever.
My husband was also born and raised catholic but we do not practice. nor do we want to.
We have different spiritual beliefs but don't impose our ideas on one another. We're very respectful of what we think and that makes us both happy.
On a different note - My parents take my kids to church with them. I think it's great that they get a taste of something different to believe in. If they want to grow up as catholics, my husband and I are open to that, as long as they don't try to impose their religion on us. My parents had a hard time dealing with my decision but finally gave in.. they still love me!
But this is how my husband and I choose to live our lives.
Now, my husband and I are nice, keep to ourselves type of people that would NEVER tell strangers that we'd pray for them.
The idea is inconceivable!
Since I was raised catholic, I do pray sometimes..I don't see anything wrong with this. I can tell you, I highly doubt I'll go to hell for this reason.
My reason for posting is I'm wondering if anyone else out there understands where I'm coming from and if they've ever experienced someone telling them that they'll go to hell for not believing in a certain religion.
I'm not saying there is no god. I'm open to everything, I just don't find comfort in some of the things that a lot of religions say. to each his own.
But why condemn someone whom you don't even know for not being of your religion..or any for that matter.
I know this is a loaded question. I don't want to start any heated discussions.. But I know there's a lot of smart, highly intelligent people out there that can possibly shed some light or even tell of some experience they've had.. yes?
1 person likes this
3 responses
@somebodybig (941)
•
2 Jul 07
Fine ..You have your right to do whatever it is you want to do with your life.Even the bible says nobody has a right to judge another person
@fuzzEbluebathrobe (378)
• United States
3 Jul 07
The foundation of most churches (notice I did not say religions) is to believe your way is the only way.
The Evangelical Christian religions , Judaism and Islam are the most vocal on this point. However it exists in the practice of Catholicism as well. I find that this goes against my grain and I hate it. It is good that you question some of the churches positions and actions. The church is man made and despite what fundamentalists would tell you ,it is fallible. I too am a cafeteria catholic.
I used to take that as an insult but now I embrace it.
Catholics do not speak of a personal relationship with God and are much more subtle in the expression of their faith so they may seem less in your face but believe me their views run deep. I think more moderate and open voices like yours are necessary. On the plus side I am especially comforted that Catholicism stresses the role of Mary. This is the aspect of my faith that I find most comforting. The catholic church unwittingly gave women a role model and the strength to demand respect. I think that it is a sad part of other religions that they teach women to obey men because it is just easier for us that way.
1 person likes this
@lovelylizzie (327)
• United States
3 Jul 07
hah! cafeteria catholic, that's so funny. I've never heard of this but it certainly makes sense to me!
Thank you for your kind response. I love the virgin mary.
I feel I need to do some more research on some religions. I got so bored in the catechism class I was forced to take, I totally blocked everything they taught me.
Again, thank you for your response. THIS was what I was looking for!
1 person likes this
@MySpot (2600)
• United States
18 Jul 07
I consider myself spiritual, rather than religious. I believe in God, both Mother & Father. I believe in Angels and spirit guides. I pray and meditate.
Personally, I think 'to each his own'... 'whatever is right for you is right' and 'whatever brings you closer to God is a good thing' so I'm very open that way. I was raised by a Catholic Mom who sent us to a Christian church. I had friends of other religions and love to learn and read about them all! I've attended so many different churches of different faiths and in the end, I'm 'choosing my religion'... which is none at all. I don't care for all of the dogma related to religion and it's always been a huge put-off for me.
We also allow our children the right to choose for themselves. My daughter currently attends two totally different churches and has more recently decided that she doesn't believe in God at all. She is only 12 and I can remember how sceptical I was at that age, especially after going to church! I'm not worried about her either because she is a good girl with good intentions and morals.
