I learned some years ago that for some folk, knowing they have The Truth is essential for their salvation. And furthermore, they need to bring that Truth to others in order to secure their own justification.
I have found that taking a person seriously and respecting his or her dignity and faith perspective, sometimes allows conversation, sometimes it doesn’t. For any common ground to be established candor is vital; the common ground is personal integrity.
The difficulties of talking to those whose faith is absolute is, of course, there is little possibility for exploration of other belief systems, and if a decision about a course of action is necessary, then one position will prevail. The benefits are, of course, the opportunity to enrich one’s own knowledge and maybe, just maybe, form a relationship that brings advantages to both parties.
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