One of my closest Internet friends is a born-again Christian. I am an atheist. Why can she and I discuss things politely and appreciate one another while so many here do nothing but sling mud? Why can't we take advantage of this marvelous communication opportunity to understand one another? Even if we don't agree, we can respect one another and appreciate having friends who aren't all the same.
As the Muppets said, why can't we be friends?
2007-12-16T17:13:22Z
Thanks, Gonzo, I needed that!
?2007-12-16T17:44:02Z
Favorite Answer
I cannot speak for other Christians.
I attempt to treat every one as I believe Jesus treated them. HE loved the ALL. HE healed them ALL. HE taught them ALL. Since the word Christian means "Little Christ" I think that we Christians need to act like Jesus did. I can find no where in the Bible where Jesus snubbed anybody. He dined with sinners and saints. His disciples were common men.
Christians are also told to not allow their brothers to take up an offense. IF I hurt someone or call them names, I put a brick in the wall. the next Christian they meet has to tear that brick out of the way before they can reach the person. I am not a stone mason. I try my best not to put bricks in anyone's wall.
One last point, I may be the Jesus some people ever see. I have to present HIM in his best light. HE was full of compassion. I just try to be like Him.
Because this is not about religion or beliefs, it's just about people..... there are tolerant and intolerant people.... respectful and unrespectful, civil and rude, smart and dumb. This is regardless of their religion or belief system. You can find extraordinarily civil christians or jews or muslims or atheists, and some others who are downright rude and feel they own the absolute truth...... it works the same for politics and any other topic where rivalry and disagreement might arise, so it's not the belief itself which doesn't allow people to get along, but THEIR intolerance and inability to handle their relationships and discussions maturely and civilly.
I completely agree with you on this. My belief is that each has a right to choose that which is right for themselves, and you be able to have others respect those choices even if they don't agree with yours. You can always agree...... to disagree. It has worked for me . I don't shove my views off on others, I just want the right like everyone else to choose what is right for me. There is a difference between sharing the word and shoving it down peoples throat. If people would just open themselves up to this concept, how much better our world would be.
I'm sorry to hear you and your friend aren't able to have an objective outlook towards eachother's beliefs. I have 2 friends who are Athiests...and I believe in Jehovah...The one friend I never discuss religion or faith with because he is not interested whatsoever - but my other friend and I have many religious conversations that are always totally respectful. So just to let you know, it IS possible :-)
EDIT: Oppps, doh! LOL...I thought you and your friend were NOT getting along because of your headline..glad to know that is not the case. You are talking about everyone here on R & S.....I wonder that as well.