Q: My girlfriend got me a supposed crystal to keep me in love with her. She snuck it into a gift basket, and when I asked about it, she told me to keep it with me everywhere I go. I assured her I love her, and no crystals are needed. She does not practice witchcraft, nor does she know this is wrong. I cannot just tell her that it is against my religion and throw it away, since she is the sensitive type and would surely cry if I did just that. So, I was wondering how I should approach this. – D.
Answered by Fr. Edward McIlmail, LC
A: Your girlfriend probably has good intentions. Nevertheless, it might be good to have a heart-to-heart talk with her.
The fact that she gave you a New Age item shows how little she understands your religious beliefs — or even the implications of the crystal itself.
While you can be sensitive in the way you raise the topic, you don’t want to sweep this under the rug.
If there is a big gap between your religious beliefs and hers, now is the time to find out.
If you are thinking about marriage someday, you want to look for someone who shares your faith and who will likely help you to pass on it to your children.
In any case, if you can’t speak about your religious beliefs with your girlfriend, with whom could you speak about them?
The best relationships put Jesus at the center. Relationships that sideline religion are on shaky ground.
So, be wary of dodging sensitive issues. They have a way of resurfacing sooner or later. This might be a great opportunity for you to be a spiritual leader in the relationship.
Perhaps some of this is worth taking to prayer.
I hope this helps. Count on my prayers.
