<p>Hey guys. I'm in a bit of a situation with my roommate regarding his religion. I would call my self agnostic, simply b/c religion has never been a priority for me. However, my roommate is extremely religious, and in my opinion, intolerant of others beliefs. One night in bed at 1 in the morning, he asked me where I stand on religion. I told him that I respect those who practice; however, I am not one of those. He then continued on for at least 2 hours telling me how all other religions are illogical and that since they aren't Christian, they will end up in hell. So, apparently i'll be in hell with the rest of them. Also, he takes the bible as the complete truth. I find it odd, however, that he referred to the room he was in last year as being a "Cripple Room" instead of handicapped. My question is how I should approach this guy. I already went to my RA and he said to just talk it over. Any advice would be appreciated. Know this is a kinda touchy subject. Thanks</p>
<p>Probably would be a good idea to have a chat and agree to at least respect each others position - one does not have to agree - just show respect for differences</p>
<p>Tear his argument apart and go to sleep.</p>
<p>tell him you hope he goes to heaven so you won't have to hang out with him for all eternity. jk</p>
<p>I can't count how many times my friends in high school tried to convert me (even though I am a practicing Christian...just not the right denomination!). The best way I found to deal with this was to just let them know that I didn't want to discuss religion with them. It did occasionally have religious discussions (some of which got rather interesting) with them, but I always had the option to tell them that I didn't want to discuss it. If he continues to push his religion on you, request a room change. Hopefully you won't have to move and he can become more tolerant of people that don't share his religious beliefs, but there is no reason for you to be persecuted in your own room.</p>
<p>Last year my roommate was a strict Orthodox Jew, and we had some amazing discussions about our beliefs and the foundation behind them. Not every situation with two different religious beliefs in a room will work, but I found it to be a truly enlightening experience; I have a newfound respect for Jewish people and more opinion regarding the current situation in the Middle East.</p>
<p>Talk about the Council of Nicae (spelling is probably wrong) and the pagan gods</p>
<p>Nicea, I think. :)</p>
<p>Treat yourselves to this great book: John Updike - the Early Stories
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/1400040728/qid=1124937143/sr=2-3/ref=pd_bbs_b_2_3/002-4302805-6037664?v=glance&s=books%5B/url%5D">http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/1400040728/qid=1124937143/sr=2-3/ref=pd_bbs_b_2_3/002-4302805-6037664?v=glance&s=books</a></p>
<p>and read this story The Christian Roommates. its a fictionalized potrait of Updikes floor in his freshman dorm in the 50's. and looks at the roommates (christian and non, Indians..east and west..all shapes and sizes) and their religous conflicts leading to great bittersweeet comedy, a stolen parking meter, tolerance and understanding and ends with a little rundown on how they ended up after college.</p>
<p>This is what I do when people say if you aren't the "right" religion you will go to hell:</p>
<p>I ask about all the people that did wonderful work, had good lives, helped people, etc- ie Ghandi, George Washington, the Pope, Mother Theresa, Einstein, you get my drift</p>
<p>If those people are in Hell, fine and dandy. I will be in good company.</p>
<p>Then just stop engaging in the conversation. Say, I am glad you have your faith to get you through, but I am fine. Say, you can pray for me if you like.</p>
<p>When he brings it up again, say, no dispect, but lets not discuss it. Say that over and over and over. The message will get across. And if he persists, its okay to say, you know, I listened to you and I don't need to hear it anymore, but I am so glad you care about me and my damnation (okay maybe not the last part)</p>
<p>If he doesn't respect you by bringing it up too often, you can be very forthright, but if he drops it, let it go.</p>
<p>Have Fun!!!!</p>