How to Deal with a Religious Conversion Attempt

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By anish
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Is someone you know trying to convert you to another faith? How do you get out of the situation? Here are some tips:

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Step 1

Evaluate the person trying to convert you. Is it a friend, a loved one, or a relative stranger? The answer will go a long way towards determining your reaction.
Step 2

If it's a stranger, ignore courtesy. Firmly state your lack of interest in conversion. If this is insufficient, look for an exit and take it. Avoid physical contact.
Step 3

If it's a friend, hear them out. Perhaps their proximity to you can lend some fresh insight into your life. Afterwards, honestly answer their questions. Try not to alienate them if you decide to refuse their offer. Re-iterate the importance of their friendship.
Step 4

A conversion attempt from a loved one is the most difficult of all. Like with a friend, honestly consider their argument, as well as their motivations in approaching you. Keep your opinions to yourself until after they've finished.
Step 5

Refusing a loved one in this situation will nearly always result in a re-evaluation of the relationship. Clearly tackle the possible repercussions. Can they be worked through? When dealing with these problems, keep religion out of the conversation as much as possible.
Step 6

If you decide to accept their offer, avoid committing to anything straight away. Focus on exploring the religion and developing your own thoughts and opinions about it. Form a course of action.

Comments

ebernshaw said

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on 11/7/2008 Wonderful discussion around anyones attempt to find resolution to this issue. Not an easy one, as most people who do this have such an invested calling they don't listen to reason. I am a counselor who works with people who struggle with issues like this all the time. Telling the truth is usually the first step. ( How to attract emotionally healthy people)