Maintain religious beliefs in the family
Introduction
The debate on whether or not we must transmit religious beliefs to our children is increasingly booming. Formerly this dilemma was practically implantable: beliefs were transmitted firmly and directly from some generations to the following, and not only through the family but by society as a whole. At present, the evolution of collective thinking and the greatest interest in preserving human rights at all levels, open the ban A whether or not to influence the spirituality of our children in some way.
Developing
While some people consider that it is a moral obligation as parents, others consider that doing so deprives them of their freedom of choice. What’s wrong with transmitting religious beliefs to our children? If, as parents, we are trying to carry out a respectful breeding with our children, religious beliefs may convey conflict with our philosophy. Spirituality is something deeply personal, it is an intimate aspect that each individual must live and develop from their own conviction.
In no case should spiritual faith be imposed. On the contrary, we must respect the beliefs – or the absence of them – of all people and, of course, of our children. Some religions generate dogma or taboo on some aspects of life, and this can be harmful to the personal development of children. Areas such as identity or sexuality must be treated with deep respect for individual freedom and never be addressed from a condemnatory prism.
Sometimes certain religious beliefs generate emotions of inadequacy, guilt or sin that can damage the self – esteem of our little ones. On the other hand, there are studies that show that trying to push our children towards concrete religious beliefs can generate irreconcilable relationship problems and tensions. What’s good to transmit religious beliefs to our children? On the other hand, spirituality has numerous positive influences, since it has been shown that spiritual people are happier, more stable and better integrated into society – whatever their concrete belief -.
The basic values that most religions share are highly educational. All of them promote pro social attitudes such as respect for living beings, understanding or goodness that is important to instill from the earliest childhood. In addition religions help us define what is good and how we can be happy. They drive us to reflection and forgiveness – not only understood as an interpersonal act but as the release of the stored emotions that hurt us -.
Religions give us another approach to life and what happens in it. Finally, there are studies that show that spirituality has very positive effects on a personal level: believers have greater self – esteem and strength. They have better physical and psychological health, lower drug use and greater adaptation capacity (face life with hope). They also show a more favorable recovery from diseases and a better coping of disease and death.
Conclusions.
So what should be done? Do not keep children in a bubble. Whether you are a believer as if not, do not try to impose your vision or make you think that it is the only option: Explain that there are people with different beliefs. Yes, as a father, do not practice any religion you can wait for your child to ask questions to start talking about the subject. Yes, as a father, religion is an important part of your life to participate in your child. Remember that over time and maturity will mold beliefs according to their own spirit and personal experiences. It always makes it clear that it is a personal option and keep the way open to other options and your own research. ‘I believe in this, but there are people who think differently, and not everyone should think the same’. Explore with him his ideas, when you talk about religion, ask him what he thinks or what is his opinion about it. Promote your own criteria. Show yourself willing to answer your questions. Do not try to impose a belief without giving option to doubt. If you don’t know anything, it is better to admit it or commit to looking for the answer to be able to give it.
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