I think it's more a matter of respecting people's feelings and general politeness. If an individual is decent and kind, I have no issue accommodating their beliefs (within reason). Two recent examples:
While attending a religious memorial service (Episcopal), I bowed my head at the appropriate moments and followed all of the general protocols. Why? Because a service where people are grieving is not the time to take a stand or make a statement.
I ran into a hospice nurse that I used to work with over 11 years ago, when I was attended church and still believed. Of course, she assumed I still did and proceeded to go on for a few minutes about blah, blah, blah and got teary-eyed during the process. You know what I did? I politely nodded my head and said " Oh. Mmm hmm. Really? Yes, I'm sure Kirk Cameron films are very interesting."
She is easily one of the nicest people I've ever known. What would be the point of interrupting a 3 or 4 minute conversation to say "God isn't real....would you like to know more?" Especially knowing that this woman carries the burden of dealing with death and dying every day.
Btw, I would only consider this an issue in day to day, personal interactions. It's not particularly relevant when it comes down to public issues, legal matters or social justice.
While attending a religious memorial service (Episcopal), I bowed my head at the appropriate moments and followed all of the general protocols. Why? Because a service where people are grieving is not the time to take a stand or make a statement.
I ran into a hospice nurse that I used to work with over 11 years ago, when I was attended church and still believed. Of course, she assumed I still did and proceeded to go on for a few minutes about blah, blah, blah and got teary-eyed during the process. You know what I did? I politely nodded my head and said " Oh. Mmm hmm. Really? Yes, I'm sure Kirk Cameron films are very interesting."
She is easily one of the nicest people I've ever known. What would be the point of interrupting a 3 or 4 minute conversation to say "God isn't real....would you like to know more?" Especially knowing that this woman carries the burden of dealing with death and dying every day.
Btw, I would only consider this an issue in day to day, personal interactions. It's not particularly relevant when it comes down to public issues, legal matters or social justice.
