MetroGirl

For years, friends have suggested or commented or hoped that I end up with this one guy, who happens to be Muslim. I'm Christian, and we both live in the US. We've worked out the religion issue (including talking to our spiritual advisers).We dont think it will work out (For non religious issues), and will just be friends. But we dont think about it too much. If it happens, it happens. We do know that neither of us will convert, and we don't think the difference in religion is a big deal for us. Regardless, some of my Muslim friends hound me to convert, assume that I will (even though I said I wont, he doesn't want me to, and they get upset when I say I wont), criticize him for not being a good Muslim, are upset that I say my kids might not end up being Muslim (we feel that an individual should be exposed to religions, but ultimately it is their choice as to what to believe), that we cant be truly close unless we have the same religion (and him converting is not a consideration in their minds, even though my religion would allow it and he has considered getting married in a catholic church), and if it isn't him, then I must marry another good Muslim man, etc. I just don't understand why my friends cant let us be and respect our situation and decisions. I also don’t understand what is so wrong with me being a Christian and wanting to stay one. I don't understand why religion is so important and why they feel the need to force it upon me. So why is religion so important for others?