In the US, much of the complaint coming from religious people about being religious is that “we” (in the US) tend to “compartmentalize” our religion. As if that’s a bad thing. Look at the Middle East for an excellent example of non-compartmentalized religion. Do you actually think the US would do a better job?(If you do, share your thoughts in the comments section.)
Doesn’t that really depend on what your idea of what living your religion should look like and how that would affect your interactions with people in general?
Let’s say that your religion disapproves of same sex sexual relations. There are two major monotheistic religions that teach that people who engage in that activity should be put to death. One of those religions in its fundamental form and through religion-directed government actively carries out that “punishment” as directed by its god to the cheers of its faithful. The other doesn’t kill, but it does disparage, shame, and shun. The third major monotheistic religion also encourages social shaming and disparagement, which is apparently more important that obeying the second most important commandment, which is to love your neighbor as yourself. Read any feed on Facebook that has openly religious friends, and you will see some level of hostility towards the idea that people who are in same sex relationships have the right to marry, raise children, or participate equally in society. In any case, this belief sets up division, hate, and hostility among people that serves no useful purpose. If there IS a useful purpose, please share it in the comments section.
Being hostile towards people about their personal practices that have no effect on you being able to practice your beliefs is a BAD IDEA that affects everyone.
Consider this: wouldn’t it be much easier all the way around if one were to decide for themselves that a same sex sexual relationship is not for them and simply practice that decision? Is it really imperative that you stand in judgment or impose your belief on anyone else? Is it possible that some people don’t have any more need to be talked out of or shamed because of their sexuality (choice, lifestyle, biological drive) than you want to be talked out of or shamed out of your choices? At the end of the day, it really doesn’t affect or offend you any more than you’re willing to let it. However, the killing, the discrimination, and the thoughtless, disparaging and hateful remarks spoken out of a sense of righteousness do have a profound affect.
I explained to an acquaintance recently that I am extremely grateful to live in a country that has a secular government. I do not want it dictated to me by a government how I should practice my religion or not. There’s enough of that in churches, mosques, and synagogues. We NEED to compartmentalize our religion to the extent that it spills over into others’ lives.