You know since the day I discovered I was pagan I've had to deal with so many intolerant people. I had an incident over the weekend that people who I've known for a very long time just threw me under the bus. Instead of asking me about it and to explain, they just assumed that these books I had (that are fiction) were pagan religion books. They, in turn, caused a much bigger situation to occur. I have never purposely put down anyone's religion. I have the utmost respect for whatever any person believes in. But when you start disrespecting me and my religion is when the line gets drawn. I've had my religion called "stupid", "retarded", etc by people who are supposed to be my very close friends. I have never once told them that because they are Christians they are stupid, retarded or the like. I believe that as long as you know your religion to be true in your heart, that is all that matters. It's all a facet of the same diamond.
In turn, this past time I was on the boat, I almost felt a bit of hostility in our berthing. I got this beautiful, gorgeous Goddess Oracle deck at Jax Pagan Pride. I took it with me on the boat. Most days just sitting and holding it is very calming for me. Most of the chicks in our squadron are Christian, and voice the fact that they are. That doesn't bother me, you should be proud of who you are. It's just when they talk down at me because I have my cards out or I'm reading my Wiccan prayer book. I'm just staying to myself in my little corner and someone always has to say something.
As I've said I've never once been purposely disrespectful of anyone's religion. I've also told these people that if I disrespected them and didn't realize it that they need to be the bigger person and say "Hey Mandie, I really didn't appreciate that" and I'd apologize. I don't like offending anyone and in turn, I don't like being offended when it comes to my beliefs.
I just wish people had more tact and could be more respectful.
