Do people from different cultures and relegions really mean it when they say that they respect each other's differences?

I respect others as long as I feel like they pose no threat to me and don't want to take away my freedom.

I think every single person is different in how they feel and how they will react to the "other" when it comes to culture and religion.

I know some relatives who are so closed minded that they call even other Christian religions "cults", because they are not Lutherans...🤣 Can't even imagine the reaction they would have to a Buddhist.

If I choose the beach over snow, it only means that on that day, and at that time, I want to be hot, lying on the sand, running into the surf to cool off and splash and swim, hunting for shells ad pretty rocks, and so on.

If I choose the snow, it is because I like to view it from afar, and watch the way the sun sparkles on the branches of trees like diamonds.

Basically, I love BOTH the beach and the snow, for different aspects of their nature.

Religious people usually don't respect others opinion imho.

Like my car I've had it for years. I know it and how it drives. I like it better than your car...doesn't mean I hate your car.

To me its a matter of giving each person their own space. The moment one group tries to insist that other conform the beliefs held by another, there will be trouble. That is the textbook definition of intolerance. And its the sign of a society on decline.😷

[quote]To choose the beach over snow, shouldn't you hate one to choose the other? Why would you opt Buddhism if you didn't like/hate Christianity as a set of example?[/quote]

No. You can enjoy beaches in summer and snow in winter; yearn for the beach in the winter and snow in the summer. Or vice versa depending upon your mood and taste of the moment. Cafeterias, buffets, and smorgasbords made a lot of money offering a variety of options for different tastes (or did before the pandemic). I have found that most religions have something unique to contribute; a teaching that makes sense. And things I disagree with, which doesn't mean I need to hate them or dislike them. It is the idea that each tends to claim to be the only TRUE religion, and their need to proselytize and convert everyone else, that is the problem. Not the intrinsic differences of the culture or religion.

I am a Freemason and respecting different faiths and beliefs is strongly emphasised by my fraterity. I am also a Christian and although Christianity makes exclusive claims, we are called to love and respect all people, even if we disagree with them.

I like beach AND snow. Sometimes I like to surf, and sometimes I like to ski...

Well, I think there is a difference between liking something and respecting it. I don't like Christianity, but I still respect that some people do.