Isn’t it tragic when religious belief divides families and communities? Often there is acrimony, and shame, and more than a little self-righteousness on the part of both parties.
Last year, Sri Lankan teenager Rifqa Bary fled her parents’ home for Florida, alleging persecution for having converted from Islam to Christianity. Her parents denied the claim, and the matter is made more complex because she is not yet legally an adult. Sadly the dispute is now being fought out in court.
But what does a parent do when a child, whom they love and care for, expresses a desire to change their religion? For some, it’s worse than having no faith at all. For some, it’s merely a question of culture. For others, it is a fundamental human right.
It can be so hard to hold onto mutual respect, and freedom, and understanding. But it begins and ends with talking together about our differences.
Broadcast on 2CH Sydney, 7 Mar 2010.
