I found it interesting to read "Challenging Your Assumptions" on page 63. There was one that really stood out to me: "That is not a very Christian attitude." I think that assumption has an overall negative effect. I have heard many non-Christians make a comment very similar to that when they feel like Christians are judging them. Also, I hear that comment made when non-Christians are being sarcastic or mocking Christians. There are a lot of Christians out there who judge and are very prideful of themselves, but there are also many Christians out there who are the opposite. I grew up going to a Baptist church where I never felt as if I was good enough. Many of the members there constantly judged people from other churches, had a lot of pride in themselves, and rarely accepted new-comers. I got so sick of being judged that I ended up leaving that church, and I now go to a church that is very welcoming and accepting of anyone who steps through their door.
I just think people need to be careful and not be so quick to judge or assume certain things about people they really don't even know.
Jessica, I can totally relate to this experience. As a Christian, specifically a Catholic, I can identify with the feeling of being judged. It feels like you're expected to behave a certain way and believe everything the majority does. This leaves little room for individual growth and stops the creation of new connections (which I feel is incredibly unfortunate). I am happy that you have found a place where you feel accepted and I wish others the same luck. I also think that people need to be reminded to keep an open mind because we all have felt like an outsider at least once in our lives. Like my mom has always said, "we only have each other and it's our responsibility to get along."
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