New neighbor.....

[poltr1]

This evening, I met a man in the apartment complex neighboring my condo complex. He was out walking his dogs -- actually, letting them go unleashed. (I need to check the township ordinances to verify that dogs need to be on leashes.) He said his name was Ken. He asked me 2 or 3 times how I was doing. (Why does he need to know and why should he care?, I thought. But I answered "All right" each time.) He also said that he's a Christian. Right then, my guard went up with him. He was trying to cozy up to me with further conversation and an invitation to dinner, but I remained aloof.


I don't grok the evangelical mindset. What business is it of everyone's to know my spiritual path? I don't go around saying, "Hi, I'm Jim and I'm a Unitarian/Wiccan/Pagan/Recovering Catholic/whatever." And if I did, how many people would welcome me or shun me? Or worse, how many people would try to convert me to their spiritual path?

Years ago, I had a bad experience with someone who called himself a Christian. He said that I would be damned to Hell if I didn't accept Jesus Christ as my Savior right here and right now. I said nothing and walked away. One of my Jewish friends had a similar experience, and he was similarly troubled.

What's at risk if I open up to this guy? He's a lot more persuasive than I am. If I tell him too much information, how will he use it against me? Will he shun or ostracize me if I come out of the broom closet with him? Or will he try to invite me to his services, his groups, etc.? Perhaps I should accept the invitation with the condition that he come to my services, or decline the invitation.

I'll say this: If I were into multi-level marketing, I would definitely want this guy in my downline.

I'm gonna have to play my cards close to my vest with this guy.

Comments

[redaxe.livejournal.com]

I don't completely understand the evangelical mindset. I do understand wanting people to understand and agree with me, but there's a definite line of politeness, over which I try not to step in pressing my case.

It's possible that your neighbor needs you to be clear and firm (if polite, at least at first) in explaining that you appreciate his faith, but that you have your own and are not interested in discussing it. If he persists, you can do anything from turn on your heel and walk away to explaining (in whatever way suits you) about the Goddess, the God, Gaia, and Jesus' having been a myth to support a greater universal truth. Or whatever.

Good luck!

[browngirl.livejournal.com]

I agree with this advice, and I send you strength in implementing it.

[(Anonymous)]

You seem to be over analyzing this situation. Perhaps he is lonely and looking for a new friend. There isn't always a deep dark motive. Does everyone you friend have to believe as you do. I thought cultural diversity was a good thing these days.

[dragon-pet.livejournal.com]

It all depends on the person.. some will force their belief down your throat and some will simply say "this is my belief.. take it for what it is worth".

Don't pre-judge this man until you know he is a bible thumper.. for all you know it can be a new friend in the making.

I met a new friend on the internet, and you know me.. give the chance I will talk about religion, ANY religion until I am blue in the face. I got talking with this guy and to find out he is Muslim.. but he was kind and shared his way of thinking and we had an intelligent debate on religion. So.. not everyone who doesn't have your beliefs is going to attack and say you are hell bound.