I have always found religions and mythologies as interesting subjects. Even though I do count as lutheran, I can't say that I am a believer. I am more realistic and practical in this matter and I like to figure out how they fit in "bigger picture". Even if we aren't very religious, it is part of our life, culture and makes us who we are. While history crafts our "nation's mentality", religion crafts our believes and values.
Even if our family isn't religious, they still teaches us to not steal, to not lie, to be kind to others, to be helpful, to not be prideful... and what does christianity teaches us? Pretty much the same. Also for Latvians there is latvian mythology... don't waste food; if you drop piece of bread, then you have to pick it up and kiss it as appology; respect elderly; don't be afraid from work...
For centuries our parents, their parents and even their parents' parents where thought values which changed only slightly. And these values doesn't change that easily, no matter how much time passes, no matter if we continue to believe or no. Latvian mythology is almost like a fairy tale now, but we are still following few rules and sayings, for example, killing spiders are bad as they bring luck to home. So if you want to understand other people, you got to know their religious background (and history). Without knowing it, you can't say that you understand them.
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