Its funny.
I had such a sheltered upbringing that I didnt know what I was sheltered from.
I used to think that I was sheltered from broken people or broken relationships.
I rarely crossed paths with people who suffered from substance abuse or physically abusive families.
Given that I didnt interact with those going through challenges, I thought that living a sheltered life meant that.
Dont get me wrong. I am grateful. My parents did their job and protected me. Sheltered me from harm. Took me away from danger.
In doing so, I have not had to struggle with addictions or abuse.
Now that I am a parent, I realize what I waa really sheltered from.
My parents kept things simple.
1 religion. The only religion they thought I needed to know. When in fact it was the only religion they knew.
I didnt realize the extent of the world outside of that caccoon. I knew there was a choice to be made. A choice of choosing a religion to believe in.
There were only two options presented though. Either chose to be a Christian and believe or chose not to be a Christian and not believe.
Believe in their faith or dont believe.
Submit or be rebellious.
Follow the chosen path or resist it.
My decision was based on limited facts. My decision was rushed.
The limited facts though showed positive life for those who chose to believe and less positive life for those who chose not to believe.
It was an easy decision.
I am a believer.
My mom however is a passionate believer. She exposed us to variations of Christianity. From the judgemental and legalistic approach to the very public displays of affection, known as charasmatic.
I’ve seen showmanship, salesmanship and dictatorship.
I’ve seen public works and I have seen discreet works.
I have seen miracles and I have heard of other miracles. That God is working in lives.
I have seen demon possession (first hand) and I have chased after visions of Angels.
I have prayed in tongues and laid hands on the terminally ill.
I have been filled with the spirit. Overflowing me.
I have worshipped with thousands and I have worshipped in a group of 3.
I have experienced what Christianity offers.
Then I finished school, stepped out into adulthood and entered a bigger world.
My upbringing sheltered me so much that I was unable to relate to other world views.
I defaulted to judgement. My view is the only right view. If your view doesn’t align with my beliefs, your view is wrong.
My exploration of sexuality was also stunted. My beliefs blurred the lines. The threat of sin stopped me from experiencing my natural hormonal urge to really explore and appreciate the female anatomy.
Its not a regret, more just a frustration.
I was sheltered. I was close minded.
Now that the cycle of life has turned, I now find myself asking how do I protect my sons innocence without reducing his outlook?
How do I shelter him from harm?