Since many of them are the Rationalist™ types who won't open their minds to accept others' experiences. People who have a very literalist, lack of nuance approach to religion, which, if you try to define religion or religious expriences any other way they'll tell you that's not what your ancestors did. Such as the 'everyone before the 20th century was a 6 day literalist creationist' nonsense that they insist on that even hard evidence from Church Fathers won't help them with.
It could seem frustrating to try to communicate in those circles, indeed, if your belief varied from theirs.
Whether it be debate or non -debate, I see that often people are interested in posting what they think as
@Rival noted but not having a discussion for the purpose of broadening their perspectives. I do participate much more when I sense people more open minded. But there are a few experiences that I won't talk about but very few.
Same.
My personal take is that religion is always going to be a personal thing and what your beliefs are and outlook may not necessarily reflect another's.
This gives me enough valid reason to think it's always going to be a personal thing.
People "holding back" I don't think that's necessarily a bad thing and one can always find fraternity among peers who share the same values.
I feel if there is a need to spread the word, then there is something wrong with the religion you're involved with because it indicates that it cannot stand on its own two feet and attract people on its own merits.
I agree with your feelings around "spreading the word" here.
I sometimes struggle with the need to 'hold back', as religion is my main interest. I read religious books, watch religious shows, investigate how food affects the us through different magical systems(Ayurveda and Western lore both have interesting takes on it), my house is covered in religious art. Take that off the table, there's little for me to talk about.
Though, I have an exception with music. I need me metal/hard rock.
Are you sure you're holding back enough?
Well, if I open my mouth, its inevitable...
No. Honestly, you can tell just by looking at me.
Can you imagine how nuts I'd be perceived as if I didn't hold back any?
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