Imagine you’re at the dentist’s office, nervously settling into the chair. You engage in the usual chit-chat with the dental hygienist—discussing the weather, family, and other light topics. However, as the cleaning begins, the conversation takes an unexpected turn.
Out of the blue, the hygienist casually states, “I’m an atheist. I feel a connection to the universe, but the idea of a deity creating everything and judging us doesn’t resonate with me.” You might have a lot to say in response, but since your mouth is wide open and filled with dental tools, you can only listen. She continues, “To me, being a good person should come from within, not from fear of divine punishment. By the way, are you flossing regularly?”
Is This Kind of Dialogue Appropriate?
I found myself in a similar situation recently, but I was the non-religious one on the receiving end. Lying back in the dentist chair, I endured a passionate lecture about the significance of following God’s Word while dental instruments invaded my mouth. It was a vivid illustration of “forcing religion down my throat.”
Let me clarify: I wholeheartedly support everyone’s right to practice their faith. However, that support has limits; it ends when a belief system harms or marginalizes individuals based on their identities. The hygienist was a Jehovah’s Witness, and while she didn’t invite me to her services or act unkindly, her enthusiasm for her faith felt overwhelming.
During our initial conversation, she asked about my last name, which I kept after my divorce, wanting to share it with my children. She expressed her condolences for my divorce in a way that felt more sincere than I expected. I almost revealed that I came out as gay, but I hesitated. In my community, I often feel uncertain about how my identity will be received. While I can pass as straight, it feels disingenuous and makes me feel invisible.
I’m not implying that this woman would have treated me poorly if I had disclosed my sexuality. However, as I lay there, listening to her discuss her faith, I was relieved I had kept that part of my life private. After our encounter, I researched, discovering that Jehovah’s Witnesses largely oppose homosexuality, with 76% believing it should be discouraged according to the Pew Research Center. This makes it one of the most homophobic religious groups in the U.S.
While I don’t want to judge anyone based on one aspect of their identity, I can’t ignore what this faith institution represents for me and the broader queer community. The official stance of Jehovah’s Witnesses is that “the Bible leaves no room for confusion.”
The Inappropriateness of Imposing Beliefs
Regardless of her personal beliefs, it was still inappropriate for her to discuss her religion while attending to my dental needs. Religion should never be imposed on anyone, anywhere. Not everyone wishes to engage with the faith you hold dear or even with the idea of spirituality. Conversations about religion should occur openly and consensually—where all parties are willing participants. Unfortunately, that’s often not the case.
In a nation that prides itself on religious freedom, the influence of religion in politics is significant, particularly within the GOP, which seeks to overturn the Obergefell v. Hodges decision that legalized same-sex marriage. Their stance is deeply rooted in Christian teachings that condemn homosexuality as a sin.
In schools, children of every faith are required to pledge allegiance to the flag, finishing the pledge with “under God,” implying a Christian context. Parents who challenge this practice risk being labeled anti-American. But is it really anti-American to question religion’s role in our public life?
Personally, I find myself in a society where a large portion of the population aligns with a political party that threatens my rights. I can’t even get my teeth cleaned without facing a well-meaning person trying to impose their beliefs on me. This highlights the paradox of religious freedom: while everyone has the right to believe what they want, others should also have the freedom to opt out of religion altogether. I wish more people recognized this.
Further Reading
For more on this topic, check out this post on our other blog, here. Also, visit Make a Mom for expert insights on home insemination. Additionally, Medical News Today is an excellent resource for those exploring pregnancy and home insemination.
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- How to handle religion in professional settings
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- Religion and its impact on LGBTQ+ rights
- Boundaries with religious conversations at work
- Understanding Jehovah’s Witness beliefs about homosexuality
Conclusion
In summary, personal beliefs should remain personal, especially in professional environments. While it’s essential to respect everyone’s right to their faith, it’s equally important to acknowledge the discomfort that can arise when those beliefs are thrust upon others. Freedom of religion also includes the choice to abstain from religious engagement.