Listening to the public discourse regarding the freedom of Muslims to worship, I have been reminded of the complexity of belief, faith, and religion.
Too often, these three terms are used as synonyms. They are interrelated, yet, they need to be distinguished. We use labels to provide a frame of reference from which to proceed in human relations.
Yet, we must not use labels as a substitute for listening to, talking with, and understanding one another.
When I started to write this blog this week, I was surprised to find myself stopped in trying to introduce myself in a way that accurately describes and reflects who I am, what my beliefs, and faith are. My problem? I wanted to describe myself fully in labels, rather than express myself fully in carefully chosen words, and in temperate voice.
In 2010, I attend a Catholic Mass in communion with individuals, who challenge me to live fully--to live with integrity. I am a practicing Catholic--I am practicing so that I may affirm life, and rid my spirit of intolerance, disrespect. I dedicate myself to be in communion with individuals with whom I am in agreement, but, much more importantly, I dedicate myself to be open to individuals with whom I do not share the same practices or beliefs. I may say that I am firmly rooted in Christian teachings--in Christian living.
But...the moment I speak or act in any way that denigrates the dignity of someone whose beliefs or actions I disagree, I contradict my beliefs, disavow my faith, and lose the privilege of celebrating my religion.
I must resist any temptation to denigrate those individuals, who oppose the rights of other individuals to exercise the freedom of religion.
I dedicate myself to learn from--to be enriched by--the diversity of beliefs, opinions, and ways of living that surround me. I pray all may share in this dedication.
