Everything is constantly changing in society, this includes ideas, beliefs, religion and the way people manage them within their own lives. From a child to now I have changed several of my beliefs. However, my change of perspective relating to religion has probably been the most drastic. I was raised in a Christian home and it never even crossed my mind to think in depth if I really believed and was devoted to Christianity – or any religion at that matter.

As of now, I consider myself an atheist. Even though I’m not ashamed about my beliefs, it isn’t something I feel comfortable talking about to people who are religious because the conversation of ideologies tends to take the turn of persuasion to get me to change my mind.

It’s finally time that the notion that religious commitment isn’t essential of moral law against criticism and ridicule. Why does it feel like you have to tiptoe around people who demand a form of special immunity and treatment due to their religious faith? News flash, having faith isn’t a privilege-endowing virtue. Faith happens to be a commitment to belief despite reason and evidence.

Now don’t get me wrong, I have no problem with anybody’s beliefs. However, I do have a problem with undermining others beliefs because you think yours are superior. Everyone is free to believe what they want, providing that they do not harm others.

People that happen to be non-religious should be able to be free of proselytisation. There might be an argument that people of religious faith have the moral outlook of most of the population thrusted upon them, such as suggestive advertising, bad language, and even explicit sex on television. But it turns out it’s not hard to turn the television off.

As human individuals we all share the quality and the ultimate basis of interpersonal relationships and views which premise the differences between us. Moral consideration, especially those that involve claims to possession by one group of greater truth and holiness start in different places.  

We need to enhance the respect for others beliefs and we will if we are considerate and kind, and you can still remain considerate and kind while accepting or giving giving criticism about a belief.

Those who might claim to be offended or hurt by the disagreement or the contrary of their beliefs are seeking to silent others which is wrong and they are undermining the central and fundamental right of free speech.

Asserting religious faith doesn’t make somebody superior, and that alone is not deserving of respect. No organized religion has a greater claim to the attention of others in society than let’s say a trade union, political party, or even a voluntary organization. In fact “special interest” groups are exactly what churches and organized religions actually are.

Respect is not granted due to beliefs and it shouldn’t be. Walking on eggshells isn’t necessary when on the topic of religion. It’s okay for religion to face ridicule and criticism just like all the other opinions, ideologies, and theories out there.