Open to Discussion

Why are we so hung up about discussing religion with other students?  Why is it a taboo subject?

I remember not wanting friends from school to find out I went to church for fear of having to discuss my beliefs with them.  Ironically, it wasn’t until one of my friends invited me to her church youth group that I started to become more vocal about my Christian Science beliefs. Unfortunately, it was for all the wrong reasons.  I felt attacked by everyone there for having my own beliefs.  I felt I had to fight back aggressively to defend my faith.

But these arguments within the youth group inevitably led toward more discussions with just my friend.  Eventually, I realized that she didn’t think I was psycho.  She was just sincerely interested in what I believed and why.  We started sharing our beliefs about everything, and I began to look forward to our discussions about religion, life and God.

I also continued going to the youth group and realized that, even if some people there were trying to convert me, it was because they truly cared that I be saved.  When I realized their sincere motives, I was able to let them know lovingly that I was confident I’d already found my salvation.  After this, I noticed that, even though I didn’t attend their Sunday services and had different beliefs, the group always continued to welcome and include me in their activities.

Since then, I’ve come to love discussions about religion or spirituality.  Talking openly about beliefs has helped me connect with others on an entirely different level.

I’ve noticed, though, that as soon as I mention Christian Science, people are often hesitant to ask questions that might spark a discussion.  It seems like there is this weird denial thing among many students about their interest in discussing religious beliefs.  This, in turn, makes some who might be interested in talking and hearing about other religions fearful about bringing it up.  It has been my experience, though, that all it takes is for one person to admit her spirituality, religion, or lack of either for a great discussion to ensue.

So, why not get out there and start the discussion?  Don’t be afraid if you don’t know an answer.  We’re all still trying to figure things out.  Questions that stump us lead to searches for answers that can strengthen our commitment to our own values.  What matters is that we speak from the heart with the desire to share whatever we believe, and that we sincerely listen to and consider others’ ideas, too.

I think you’d be surprised by some of the similarities and inspiration these discussions can bring out.  And you never know what some idea you share can spark in someone else’s life!  So, what’s stopping you?

By Natalie