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It will never cease to amaze me how someone can be religious and rely on that religion with nothing but faith, but somehow find it in themselves to question someones else's spirituality as if their faith is less than. It is not uncommon at all for people in peril to turn to faith for comfort. William's story was real to him (and in the official story itself) and I found it rude of the second mate to dismiss it like that. It makes him out to be an unlikable character (but still great story).


What do you guys think? What are your stances on William's faith and Richard's( I don't remember the second's mates name)?

It is only proper to respect the religion of others. Most people like to look down on people on the grounds of religion but its not necessary. I think our different beliefs guide us in our various decisions and also at our lowest moments,religion I what we always turn to.

I am not of the opinion that all religions are the same but I think there is a way that things must be approached in a manner that shows respect and lovingly too. Disagreeing with another person inconsiderably isn't good. It would be better to place oneself in that person's shoe first.

Agreed. You can disagree with someone's opinion (after all, isn't religion an opinion? To which everyone is entitled, and which differs person-to-person?) without disrespecting the individual.

I do think that some religions teach their followers to be more confrontational about differences - along the lines of being encouraged or even compelled to "convert" others, or to distance themselves from people who believe differently. An adherent of a religion like that would believe it to be more acceptable or even required to be demeaning/degrading/dismissive to others who believe differently.

Not that it makes it any less hurtful to the other party - but that might be where the "attacker" is coming from, cognitively.

I think that this interaction between William and the second mate reflects our society today. Many people feel as though their particular branch of religion is the only one or the "right one". At its best, this viewpoint can be seen as obnoxious or rude, but at worst, this can lead to violence or hatred of another group. I think that everyone has a right to their beliefs, but you also must be respectful of the beliefs of others.

I think that's pretty typical of the real world, honestly. I have come across many people who are disrespectful and dismissive toward other religions. It's too bad it has to be that way, but religion is one of the most divisive cultural constructs in the history of the world.

I think this is representative of our real life situations. We tend to disagree or disapprove of any other beliefs if it is not in alignment with our own. Personally, I do not like the compulsion to include everyone within a fixed group or set of beliefs. Religion and spirituality are things that are personal for each one of us.

I agree that religion and/or spirituality are personal. I think that the author was trying to use that scene as a microcosm of the whole world.

diana lowery wrote: ↑20 Apr 2019, 10:43 I agree that religion and/or spirituality are personal. I think that the author was trying to use that scene as a microcosm of the whole world.

Well said.

My favorite religion is "Don't be a jackass." And as they say, "There are no atheists in foxholes." In great times of need, it's natural to turn to some higher power.

shaz1994 wrote: ↑12 Apr 2019, 03:43 It is only proper to respect the religion of others. Most people like to look down on people on the grounds of religion but its not necessary. I think our different beliefs guide us in our various decisions and also at our lowest moments,religion I what we always turn to.

You are right! Our religion determines our way of life. It determines who we are and helps in shaping our destinies. I believe religion is a BIG thing, but I don't believe any religion should be looked down upon.

Faith is unique in for every person because our life experiences build upon it and build it. I believe religion is like a set of rules and faith makes them applicable in your life. So no one should question or disrespect someone's faith or religion.

Even though everyone believes that his/her religion is the best, we should respect other people's religion and not force ours down their throats. Religious differences can be debated in a respectful manner if we hope for the other person to see our viewpoint. There is an Indian proverb that says there is no point giving a man a rose to smell after you've cut off his nose.

Katherine Smith wrote: ↑12 Apr 2019, 16:49 I think that this interaction between William and the second mate reflects our society today. Many people feel as though their particular branch of religion is the only one or the "right one". At its best, this viewpoint can be seen as obnoxious or rude, but at worst, this can lead to violence or hatred of another group. I think that everyone has a right to their beliefs, but you also must be respectful of the beliefs of others.

This is very true. The big lie that is normally propagated though is that all religions are equal and the issue of serving the same God which I think somehow is not true. Nevertheless, everyone should respect the religious orientations of other people. It is a human right and freedom and I believe that all Constitutions also have a place for this.

This was an interesting discussion the characters had. It really made me think. Randall practiced a more "traditional" form of religion, while William's religion isn't what most people think of when they talk of religion. Randall was so rude. The bible is full of "stories" that could really be compared to William's story. People who practice religion should be open to others. They don't have to adopt another's beliefs, but they should be tolerant at least.