Writer’s Block Unplugged from July 20, 2010:

Do you condone people trying to push religion onto others, or shoving it down their throat? If so, why is it ok if you’re emotionally and/or physically hurting the person you’re doing it to? If not, why is it not ok that someone is trying to save someone else’s soul?

Answering this depends on the definition of “pushy.” Some people get upset at a mere mention of religious belief. But others understand the differences between talking about your own beliefs, encouraging others to learn more, and attempting to browbeat someone.

As far as I’m concerned, mentioning and discussing beliefs is not pushy. The reason I often don’t isn’t because of my opinion but because others don’t share my definition. I’ve been accused of trying to “convert” people based solely on a statement that Catholics don’t worship Mary.

I have a hard time understanding how that sort of statement is “shoving it down your throat” and can cause emotional damage.

I like discussing religion, but in normal conversation I limit myself to references. For example, I once mentioned to a co-worker that I liked a particular eatery for lunch “because I can get a good tuna sandwich during Lent.” He looked a little startled. Given that the conversation was about places to eat lunch — and it continued in that direction — I saw nothing wrong with the statement.

Because it’s such a tricky topic, though, that’s about the only way I’ll bring it up unless directly asked. When I’m asked a question, I answer it. I don’t understand why doing that is pushy either, but again, I’ve been accused of it.

I won’t lie; I do believe that I should help others try to find their path to (or back to) God. But I believe the better option is “witnessing by example.” A faith based on fear isn’t strong or true, and that’s why I believe that being pushy is actually going to do more harm than good.

So in my case, I tend toward the former attitude — being pushy isn’t okay. But I question some people’s definitions of it. Simply talking about and living my beliefs (or trying to, anyway) isn’t the same as trying to turn every conversation in a particular direction or constantly invite people to Mass. Neither is praying for someone.

Just to be on the safe side, though, I may or may not actually tell someone when I am.