Thanks again for giving me an insight into your world. In Australia we still have our share of fundies but generally speaking they don't make much of an impact. I grew up in a JICC(Just In Case Christians) household that only go to church for the usual weddings, christenings, funeral etc. I remember at public school we had what they called 'Religious Instructions' once a week. My mother would always tick Church of England but as a child I dearly wanted to be Methodist because they played with plasticine. But eventually as I got older, I asked my mother to write a note that excused me from these classes, no, it wasn't pre-emptive atheism but rather boredom. She agreed seeing that the alternative was an hour in the library and she thought that couldn't do any harm (btw thanks mum). Though looking back now I ponder the reason why the lessons bored me when other kids happily joined in with wide-eyed enthusiasm. To me, the whole talking snake thing was stupid and I questioned things like if 'God sees all' then how come he let awful things happen. Well, I'm seven at the time and didn't think in terms of free will, lessons and other excuses.
So as an adult raising three sons I had to consider how to handle the religious issue with them. My decision was, even in hindsight, one that I believe has provided them the freedom to make their own decision. When discussing the existance of a god, I would say this..."in my opinion (very important) *insert atheist viewpoint* but its best if you look into it yourself and come to you own conclusion" I would say this too in regard to politics.
Footnote: When my eldest became old enough to vote, he voted the same as me. I was delighted that my liberal views had rubbed off and was feeling quite chuffed that I had raised a child with a social conscience, yada yada, pause for slap on the back. When it came time for my second son to vote, he voted conversative, naturally I was dumbstruck, how did this happen? It was only when I calmed down did I realise the enormity of what had happened. Pause for more slaps on back. Proof that I had raised my sons to think for themselves!!!! Sure it is a two edged sword when you teach your kids independant thought but surely it is the best way.
So as an adult raising three sons I had to consider how to handle the religious issue with them. My decision was, even in hindsight, one that I believe has provided them the freedom to make their own decision. When discussing the existance of a god, I would say this..."in my opinion (very important) *insert atheist viewpoint* but its best if you look into it yourself and come to you own conclusion" I would say this too in regard to politics.
Footnote: When my eldest became old enough to vote, he voted the same as me. I was delighted that my liberal views had rubbed off and was feeling quite chuffed that I had raised a child with a social conscience, yada yada, pause for slap on the back. When it came time for my second son to vote, he voted conversative, naturally I was dumbstruck, how did this happen? It was only when I calmed down did I realise the enormity of what had happened. Pause for more slaps on back. Proof that I had raised my sons to think for themselves!!!! Sure it is a two edged sword when you teach your kids independant thought but surely it is the best way.
"'God is as real as I am', the old man said. I was relieved since I knew Santa wouldn't lie to me."
