Beliefs

I have often wondered about the actual value of "beliefs". I mean the value that someone's beliefs should have for others. Beliefs are something totally personal, therefore it seems logical that, if your belief does not sound true to me, I don't have to accept it or feel compelled to do so. But in real life things go differently. "They" (whoever they may be: congregations, any kind of groups and affiliations, even your best friend or your neighbor...) have the ability to make you feel guilty if you don't share their certitudes, if you dare think differently. What to do? Difficult to say. You can refuse them, and you will create enemies. You can ignore them, and you will be considered careless and conceited. You can be bold and clearly explain your thought, and you will probably be looked upon with pity (even contempt). Now... choose!