Growing up, we attended church every Sunday until about 4^th grade. Sports, school, and life got in the way of trying to make it a habit. Now, this is no excuse. Once I stopped attending church regularly however, I started to really see the world through my own eyes.

I am a Christian and I follow and believe in the majority of the Christian values. I even attend a very Christian-based university. However, I have not been to church since those elementary school days. The older I get, I find more trouble in even finding a church that fits what I believe in. I refuse to attend a service that preaches something that I don’t believe to be true. Whether it be same-sex marriage, opinions on transgender individuals, or women’s roles in society. I refuse to be prejudice against people being who they are, which is what I have found to be present in several churches.

The reason this has such an impact on me is because I don’t believe that you have to go to church to be a Christian. I strive to live my life everyday being kind, loving, and compassionate towards everyone on this earth. I believe in God, I believe there is something greater than us all, but I practice this through my everyday life. I believe that being truly Christian requires this from every individual. Rather than listening to a service, which is also a very good way to practice your faith, I find faith and love through my actions towards others.

I’m not saying going to church is bad. Attending church and being faithful to your beliefs is awesome. However, I have been judged by many for not going to church. A lot of people say that I’m not a “true” Christian because I’m not a member of any church. The ironic thing about the majority of these people is that I have seen them doing the opposite of what they preach and portray about their religious values. John 15:12 says “love one another as I have loved you.” I have seen many faithful church-goers do the opposite of this; bullying, hatred, etc. I’m not saying I’m perfect; however, I am aware of these things and choose to try my best.

All in all, I have nothing against those that go to church faithfully. I think it’s great and is important to practice your faith. Just don’t make assumptions about the others that don’t.