DEAR MISS MANNERS: I used to be religious, many years ago, but I now identify as pagan — meaning that I believe in the powers of Mother Earth, and that everything she’s created is sacred.
My beliefs are personal, and I don’t discuss them with others unless directly asked.
Because the majority of people believe in God, there’s a general societal belief that everyone does. I’ve been around those who speak freely about their beliefs to the point where I feel like I’m being beaten over the head.
I respect their beliefs, but at the same time, I’d like to say something to remind these speakers that not everyone shares them.
How do I tell people that we nonbelievers do not want to hear about their religion ad nauseam?
GENTLE READER: Techniques for changing the subject of a conversation rely on a combination of surprise and persistence, Miss Manners notes. Those who dominate conversations usually do so by having relentless personalities — and by never coming up for air.
With the right accomplice — and the right timing — you could interject, “Yes, our community subscribes to many different faiths. But perhaps that’s a topic for another time.” And then launch into a new topic with a willing partner.
Alternatively, when faced with a near-lecture on theology, you could expound on your beliefs in Mother Earth and her powers.
(Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners.com; to her email, [email protected]; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)