How do you deal with someone who has had something happen and they keep talking about “God’s plan”? I have a friend who is going through some tough times and it looks like they won’t be able to achieve what they wanted but keep placing it on God. I think it’s a coping mechanism for them but it still is rubbing me wrong. I am trying to stay supportive which basically just entails me keeping my mouth shut.
I’ve adopted a modified version Star Trek’s Prime Directive. I do not act like others should change their world view (even if it is wrong). If no one is being directly harmed and no one’s rights are at stake, I live and let live.
Fundamental worldview things have tentacles and a person needs to get “there” on their own. Asking questions (either way) can help, but I don’t make them persuasive.
Sounds like they need support and have some important blindspots. What’s best for them, subjectively, in this period of time? In the next six months?
They are grieving a lost future (I think), respect the grief.
I’m with this! I’m a live-and-let-live kind of guy. If a person asks me about my opinions about such things, I’ll entertain an adult discussion. But I don’t want to be the atheist equivalent of a Jehovah’s Witness badgering people.
This is the way to go. You aren’t under an obligation to change someone’s beliefs. If they reach out to you, be a support and offer help. Be a good example of an atheist by being a good friend.
If you really feel the need to push, something non confrontational like the street epistemology approach might work well.