I am married to a practicing Roman Catholic who believes very strongly that our future children should be raised in the Church. I used to simply call myself an atheist. Then I read Ishmael, and other Daniel Quinn books and found a new vocabulary for what I have felt most of my adult life. I think it is important for me to have children to pass on what I know about animism. Thanks to Daniel Quinn my view of the world now has words that I can use to teach this view to them. What advice does Daniel have for me for educating my children, while at the same time attending church every Sunday? • Ishmael.org, the work & philosophy of Daniel Quinn

I am married to a practicing Roman Catholic who believes very strongly that our future children should be raised in the Church. I used to simply call myself an atheist. Then I read Ishmael, and other Daniel Quinn books and found a new vocabulary for what I have felt most of my adult life.

I think it is important for me to have children to pass on what I know about animism. Thanks to Daniel Quinn my view of the world now has words that I can use to teach this view to them. What advice does Daniel have for me for educating my children, while at the same time attending church every Sunday?

Well, this IS a poser. . . . If you yourself see these two things as conflicting (as I would myself), then how are your children supposed to see them? It’s a bit like trying to keep your kids off drugs while using them yourself. Which message are they supposed to accept?

I don’t say that what you propose to do is impossible, but I’m afraid I have no suggestions for you. I’m stumped. Sorry.

ID: 657
posted:
updated: 02 Nov 2003
Related Q&A(s): 662