We were mostly talking about discussion, or reacting to personal observances. When I did my seminar on existentialism, I had two out and out atheists on the reading list (Nietzsche and Sartre), two out and out religious authors (Kierkegaard and Buber), an atheist with religious overtones (Heigedder) and an agnostic with religious overtones (Jaspers). I tried to give a full range of opinion and to treat seriously each author, including showing how there can be some confusion of the conventional categories. However, things are not so easily managed in the course of customary observances and such in the world.
I think that if we take the usual criterion limiting deference, than we will be discreet as long as it does not discommode us too much. For example, if it is the family habit to say grace before a normal, and there are guests, it might be foregone to avoid discomfort. However, if its Thanksgiving Day, than the guests will have to grin and bear it. I think the reasonable solution to the commencement prayer problem was to allow a Unitarian or Ethical Culture representative to offer a reflection on the usual rotating basis as other clergy. (I also think that prayers offered should avoid sectarian flourishes: no Marian prayers, no shouting "in Jesus's name", no invocation of Amitabha). Gives me some examples where a line needs to be drawn (I think I have commented on most such), and I will tell you where I think it should be drawn......... |
