My problem with this religion issue is how we have to choose which team to root for or should I say pray with. I get the carry on traditions with rituals shows respect for prior generations. Isn't this a cultural political choice in the end?
Most are raised in their parents' beliefs but 34% of Americans switch to different religious groups in a adulthood. So yes some choose to stay and others choose something different. But you don't have to choose a religion, if you just feel there's some force, or destiny, or soul, or whatever you can just say you're spiritual. If you're indifferent that's apatheism.
The way I approached it, was to look for evidence the religion was true and honest. In the end, I didn't find any evidence that any of them were more than ancient myths that were built up over many generations.
I feel freer than I ever have since I finally let go of religious beliefs. I wish I had done the research when I was a teen, but there was no internet then and it was much harder.
I don't really care much for traditions. I don't feel compelled to adhere to them.
I also don't feel it's necessary to show "respect for prior generations".
Never been much of one to be dictated to regarding what I "should" respect,
or show deference to. Especially when it comes to political, religious, or cultural
observances.
The team we root for is, for the vast majority, decided by birth. Were you and I born in Tel Aviv, Riyadh, Bangkok or Delhi, we would almost assuredly be praying with, and rooting for, a different team. We are accidental believers, by and large.
But we can choose to abandon the 'faith of our fathers' and chart a different course, even if it implies a lack of respect for the beliefs and practices of prior generations. We must always remember that culture is a choice, not a life sentence.
What do you mean by which team to root for? Theist or atheist? Republican or Democrat? You don't have to root for either theists or atheists. Be an Agnostic. You don't have to root for Republicans or Democrats. Be a responsible adult that chooses politicians based on their record and platform that is beneficial to the people of our nation and other nations. The only "moral" side to choose is the one that benefits all or most humans, and not just small groups or individuals.