(February 21, 2014 at 2:13 pm)Mr. Moncrieff Wrote: Hello there. I am from North East England and am actually taking quite a risk in posting on this forum but I am determined to speak to like minded people as regards my current developing stance on philosophy and personal enlightenment.
I am a Catholic teacher in a Catholic school, but I have very recently questioned my beliefs with increasing fervour.
Reading Hitchens, Dawkins, Russell, Kant and Schopenhauer I have come to the conclusion that my own belief system has long been without vigour for quite some time. I have been going through the motions. Proselytising to the children as a mouthpiece for the church, rather than being allowed to educate with the trust of personal responsibility.
I am looking to leave my position within the next few months, but it is increasingly important to me that I remove myself in order that my hypocrisy not damage both my personal sense, my professional sense and my personal philosophy.
However, being as I am a relatively senior member of the school, it will be very difficult to move out of the Catholic system without something looking quite odd. It also means my options are immediately lessened.
But my family need a room over their heads and an income coming in.
Thanks for listening and I am welcome to all opinions.
I haven't been posting for a while, took an 'internet break,' which every now and again ...is good for the mind and soul. lol I logged in today, and your intro caught my eye. I was raised Catholic, and it is very common to go through the motions. I think most Catholics are going through the motions, out of fear. Religion breeds fear. You can have a connection to a 'higher power' without following a religion.
Relating to your dilemma, maybe start sending resumes out. To teach something you don't believe, will be disineguous to the school that pays your salary. I realize you have a family to support, so right now you are stuck. But, if you abandon your faith, and continue to teach there, you will struggle in an entirely different way that will take its toll on you, mentally and emotionally over time.
Not easy. But, I'd try to get out of the area you're in, and pursue something new. If you don't live authentically, you will have more problems that you'll even imagine. But, I understand your dilemma.
I hope you find the right path for you.
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