Snapchat: mscopykate
Growing up, I have always been taught to respect everyone regardless of race or religion. I was born into a Buddhist family who were later on converted into Christians. My dad remained a free thinker, but he always uphold the highest respect for each and every one of our belief. Despite his tendency to lecture us on how our destiny is not controlled by the spiritual being but is within our own hands, he still played badminton with some of our church members, never had problem having short talks with our pastors and sometimes would even gladly attend the events held at the church if he isn't too busy with work. Although he has never truly believe in God, I am glad that he has never once discriminate. And likewise, we would never look down on or distance ourselves from our relatives who are of different religions. And neither would we force them into believing what we deem is is the true path, as we know that they have the rights and freedoms to their own religious beliefs.
It's a shame that religion which is meant for the better good of the world could become a reason for discrimination. My previous encounters have always been us Christians discriminating (sort of) against other religions, as we were continuously taught to only marry someone who believes in God as the basic rule to a happy marriage and blessed family unit. I totally understand where the concern is coming from, as couples of different religions may have arguments later on in life due to their differences. I never really stick to that advice, as I did not want to limit my choices within that religion :x (Besides I don't really meet that many Christians in life. Partly because I don't really go to church lol. But ask my bestie who attends church regularly and she would tell you the same)
However, sometimes the discrimination comes from other religions who prefer to distance themselves and to avoid marrying their offsprings to Christians because they think that all Christians are evangelists who would constantly persuade them into joining the church and force them to pray before meals and sing worship songs during family gatherings wtf.
(God forbids blasphemy) I couldn't care less if one goes to heaven! I know pastors, devoted Christians and probably even my mum would frown at this selfish thought but really, it's everyone's choice and I seriously don't care. Of course, some people may feel obliged (church pressure lol) to share the gospel at any opportunity they could get because they are constantly reminded to do so, and by doing so they believe that they will be rewarded by His grace and mercy. Can't say the same about me though.
Okay before I divert too much into sensitive insights which will probably stir up discomfort, the question is should you marry someone of different religion? *deep thoughts emoji*
By now you should have realized there is no right or wrong answer, but merely a matter of perspectives. There is a correlation between the outcome and the level of respect from one another as well as the degree of compromise from each partner. Some may ask, why start something when you foresee problems ahead? Why not go for someone that requires lesser effort? Because sometimes we just can't imagine being with anybody else but him/her. After all, they say love is unconditional.
So, what should you do when you are being discriminated by your potential in-laws?
1. Break up with your partner
Only if you aren't sure that he is the one and if you can't tell whether he is worth the effort. Better now or never.
2. Get married after your potential in-laws enter the grave wtf
But unless they are already sick and old and lying on their deathbed, this option may not be applicable to all.
3. Sever ties with your potential in-laws
Who in the right mind would do that though? Remember filial piety! It runs in Asians' blood. Unless you marry an ang moh :/
4. Give up on your religion
Sorry but can you say the same about giving up sex or rice? No means no lah. Even philosophies don't anyhow change overnight.
5. Respect each other and live in harmony
Of course, this option may be easier said than done. It certainly takes a significant amount of effort from both parties. If you believe that it would work, then by all means make it happen. But if you believe that it would fail, then your relationship will no doubt crumble.
What would you do?
