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Noemi Amadeo
16 Hackmatac Street
Central Islip, NY 11722
6 September 1997
How Diversity Affected My Faith
Life is full of all different types of people and while we may not agree with their
views Jesus says that we should never condemn or judge them. In fact in Luke 6:27
Jesus said, Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not
be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. The area I was raised in was full
with people of different cultures, races and religions. My upbringing will be an
advantage over students who may not have been exposed to other cultures.
Growing up in Central Islip, New York has allowed my faith not only to be
challenged but to be strengthened. My involvement in my school bible club made me a
target for some of the students who didnt share my views. Therefore, I have
encountered many different views towards Christianity.
There is one experience that I will never forget where one of my classmates
opened a discussion about abortion. We debated whether it was right or wrong. I state
my belief that no matter what the circumstance was, a mother does not have the right to
end a life.
Yeah, but that isnt your choice, I heard someone say. It was at that moment
that I turned around and realized that everyone was looking at me. I remember my face

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getting hot, feeling like I was under pressure. I kept eye contact, I didnt get angry, and
showed even though we disagreed I didn't judge. Although a baby may be a product of
something violent against the mother, who is she to punish the child for the sins of the
father.
After that debate I often got snickers from those who disagreed with my views.
Sometimes Christians focus on their own views and dont pay attention to the views of
others. Through this debate I learned how others think. Its important to know how
sectarians think, to prepare to counter their arguments.
My experience with sectarian views would make me an asset in strengthening
other Christians who don't know how they think. I will be able to shed light on the way
non-Christians think and in that way I will contribute different views to the students at
Liberty University. I will flourish in a Christian environment while helping fellow
Christians understand and learn how sectarians may deliberate.