Doctrine? We are all connected to the larger world

[Aeress]

I am quoting myself- "I think the area of spirituality is missing from many aspects of our culture. We need to find the balance between recognizing that people are spiritual beings and the separation of church and state. We can teach children about their connectedness to the larger world in a way that doesn't involve doctrine."

I wrote this to someone this morning and someone said that it was in fact doctrine.

I think of this as more of a fact (which I know is not cut and dry fact) because of how our bodies are made up and the circle of life. Our choices, how we use resources- have a profound impact on the earth. It isn't a matter of beliefs but rather a matter of reality.

I could see how it could be viewed as doctrine but to me, it just doesn't fit what most people believe as doctrine.

As an aside, we are UU (my family). WHile I introduce some of my beliefs, I want my girls to find their own way, what feels right to them. I do teach respect for the environment, respect for life etc

[Bluegoat]

Well, I think I agree that it is "doctrine". It is an interpretation and development on facts, not the facts themselves. There is a bit of a tendency for people to say something like "we need to open to all ideas", and not realize that it actually represents a very definate point of view that actually sets limits. Or "we can never know what is true" and not realize that it is a contradictory statement.

I used to have one of those little cars that the UU gives out with it's principles printed on it, and I remember thinking they had a bit of that character. It's one of the things I find a bit odd about the modern UU.

I think the best thing is to remember that whatever kinds of beliefs you hold, they are statements about what you think is true, and also imply what you think is false. Your actions also reflect the same things. There is really no way to stop your kids from realizing you have beliefs about things, and it likely wouldn't be a good idea anyway. And children almost always tend to accept as absolute truth the worldview of their parents when they are young. It is what gives them a lens to interpret the world before they are able to create a lens of their own. As long as you don't somehow stunt them intellectually, emotionally or psycologicallly, as adults they will come to their own conclusions.

[Aeress]

Bluegoat- I agree with the last part of your post. I suppose to hold certain beliefs to be true it does imply that there is a false.

I am having a trouble forming what I was going to say (been a long day), oh shoot.

Maybe others will discuss their ideas and I will be able to develop mine.

[hrsmom]

Interesting question! It doesn't sound like doctrine to my ears (or eyes.) I used to date a man who was fairly conservative Christian, who loved to debate statements like the one you made. He would call it "doctrine" simply because he wouldn't agree. (Not that anyone who would view it as doctrine is in disagreement with you, but that would be the case for my old boyfriend!) So I guess it depends on where you're coming from.