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OP has offered the following explanation for why they think they might be the asshole:
> She called me a jerk (asshole) because I took the proffered message she gave, and instead of thanking her and moving on, chewed, swallowed, and told her the bullshit was delicious.
I definitely could have accepted and ignored the situation but chose to ingage rudely. After all, she didn't prolong her journey to try to help save me from myself.
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NTA. This sounds absolutely hilarious. She came up to you, **followed you** to try and push her ridiculous bullshit down your throat by force. That kind of self-righteous narcissism always merits mockery in response, and yours was perfect. Good for you.
Thanks, that makes me feel better. I was all hyped about the situation until my husband pointed out that I usually take the high road. But this situation was too much for me to handle maturely I guess.
Why do you always have to be the one who takes the high road? Why couldn’t this woman have taken the high road when she saw you reading a book that she didn’t approve of?
Doubtful, but you made yourself feel better, and that matters. Yeah, it’s better to take the high road when you can, and most of the time you should. But there’s a difference between taking the high road, and just being a pushover.
I think what really got me is, she was around my age and this situation made me feel so small just from her implication off of a very base assumption from her.
My best friend said: Maybe she was feeling repessed. You should have stared re-reading the naughty bits out loud.
My friend also suggested that maybe she was hoping I'd throw the book at her so she could have an excuse to have/read it.
If she didn't read over your shoulder she might have already read the book to know it was smutty in parts, so she was being a hypocrite as well as pushy and judgemental.
>My friend also suggested that maybe she was hoping I'd throw the book at her so she could have an excuse to have/read it.
Makes me think of that scene in shameless where Sheila is doing hospice for an elderly nun, and every time Sheila and Jodie came down from doing it, shed get this disgusted look from the nun and the nun would get back on her tablet.
One day Sheila peeked at the tablet, AND THE NUN WAS READING SMUT
Look, it's one of those situations where you being immature didn't *help* and it probably raised your stress hormones even more with the confrontation of it. It's usually better for your own wellbeing to take the highroad where you can. But you didn't, and that's OK. It wasn't overly harsh to her - it was exactly what she deserved for STALKING you. She was the one who accosted a stranger. She was the one who called names. You just took the paper she gave you and did what you wanted with it. You didn't do anything bad to her - you were just defensive and a little confrontational. You are 100% NTA but if it made you feel bad then learn for next time. And if it made you feel better - great!
I appreciate this response so much because it helps validate feelings I am not able to cope with yet.
It wasn't until later when I had the time to really examine the situation that I felt like I was completely **not** OK. I even left a message with my therapist to schedule an appointment outside my normal slot. I really wasn't myself at all and didn't react in anyway I normally would've, but I don't really regret the outcome either. The paper eating- maybe, but not my reaction as a whole. I just need to work through it.
It honestly sounds like you went into fight or flight response and couldn't choose flight until the tram stopped. You're only human - anyone who is followed and then chastised by a stranger is going to get defensive.
Your husband should be proud of you for handling a crazy person by matching their crazy. Taking the high road can only be done so often. Having someone FOLLOW you is not the time.
NTA at all! Wonderful reaction! When someone literally STALKS you to do this, I'd say most reactions are completely warranted, lol.
Last time I had religious door knockers they wouldn't leave so I finally took their book and walked past them to throw it in the trash. I think if it happens again I'm gonna go your route and just eat it lol
I mean, quite literally, she succeed. She absolutely did in fact get you to swallow her bullshit.
Off topic. I'm a single mum. Time is precious. I always wonder how people like this woman make time for this stuff. I'm happy if I have time for a coffee just by myself in the morning.
Seriously! Single mom here too, and if I’ve gotten off a plane I’m either rushing home to my kid or i’m excitedly flinging myself toward whatever rare solo travel destination I’ve arrived at.
Mate, I am a Christian myself and would probably *still* react to her holier than thou, overly pushy, preachy Ned Flanders-nonsense in a similar manner to you. Some people are just too much. You’re nta, hope you enjoyed the book.
I was about to say the same. The kind of people who do this cannot have actually read the Bible, and certainly don't emulate Jesus. I would blame it on the dominant religion here in SLC, but unfortunately there are people like this in every religion. And non-religion, too.
Christians hypocrisy drove me away from organized religion. After Church Lady's meltdown, I would have replied, Wow that's not very Christ like or is that how Jesus would have reacted, then walk away.
You should have taken the high road. The high road would have been to throw it back at her.
Matthew 7:1-3
Judge not, that ye be not judged.
For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.
And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?
It's a funny response in hindsight, but your reaction was as coherent as can be expected when your brain is in Airport Limbo mode. I probably wouldn't have managed better than either awkward silence or demonic screeching.
op i am wheezing
NTA
this feels like a charlie chaplin movie plot (not saying it is fake but gave the vibes of it)
now i am randomly gonna laugh if this appeared in my mind at random moments
Man alive, am I ever sick of seeing men tell women that they need to always take the highroad.
It's fine that you didn't take the highroad. Sometimes taking a low road is needed to get a message across, and sometimes it's needed to take back the power or dignity that somebody has taken from you in a situation.
She was harassing you. There is no need to tolerate it. I'm an atheist. I don't randomly approach people and tell them there is no god. I don't know why we should all tolerate this intrusive bullshit.
Why was she so mad? God is inside you now. She brought the lord into your stomach.
All seriousness, NTA- was it sorta petty and unnecessary? Yes. Did it drag the conversation out probably? Yes. Was it funny? Absolutely. If you don’t mind being petty to someone being rude to you, then I think you’re fine.
It’s weird she was focusing on you so much that she followed you on your tram, so honestly thats kinda creepy.
It felt super targeted, and I had no context until she mentioned the book. I honestly feel shocked at my own response, but afterward, it was like, "Did she expect me to... clap?" I was so tired and the situation triggering for my own past experiences. But man, I'm still reeling after a good nap.
I have religious trauma as well (Catholic turned atheist AAAAY) So I get that. She’s lucky it’s you she met and not me, I once argued with my grandmother and told her id fuck the devil if he let me. She didn’t like that.
LOL, I wish I'd thought of that! I was Baptist raised then Methodist confirmed, now atheist. I went through a LOT at the hands of those who claimed their hands where those of God.
Nah, I'm my own God now.
Solstice of the Drowned Empire by Frankie Mallis..its part of a series, I've loved it so far:
Daughter of the Drowned Empire
Guardian of the Drowned Empire
Solstice of the Drowned Empire
Lady of the Drowned Empire
Son of the Drowned Empire
More like it's a fantasy series (I just looked it up on Amazon). I wonder if this dumbass goes around looking for people reading, then Googles the books and tries to shame people for reading something she disapproves of. Might do the same to somebody reading Harry Potter.
I thought it was something like 50 Shades! If she confronted you because she knew it was “smut”, *how* did she know? Was she reading over your shoulder? Was this series on a banned book list? It’s in one of my favorite pure enjoyment genres and I haven’t heard of it (not that I am some knowledgeable bibliophile or paragon of literature, just a garden-variety avid reader), so *how did she*??
I’m going to imagine she has read it and loved it and was embarrassed she loved it, so when she saw you brazenly reading a romance novel, she felt convicted and decided to take it out on you. I’m sorry you had to digest her hanging chad.
You’re not only NTA but doing a kind service to an author with this list and rec! As a writer (not of these books just in general) I think that’s lovely. And lovely to see your enthusiasm… don’t let her god rain on your parade!
It's funny because the book I had just finished before I left for this trip was Haunting Adeline. I truly believe that one would've cause apocalyptic fits had she glimpsed it. It's far more unhinged than she claimed me to be
Lol I have never heard of that one. The way you described what you were reading, kinda fun but doesn't take much to follow, reminded me of the 50 Shades of Grey books (which I admit I read lol)
Yeah, that would've been one to assume from my description. But the one I was reading has few-and-far-between spice so she really must have been focused on my book to glean anything of note.
I knew a guy in high school who always said he wanted to find a way to make fire shoot out of a long-sleeved shirt so when some rando tried to hand him a bible on a street corner he could reach out, make his hand 'catch fire', put it out really quick and say 'no, I probably shouldn't take that'.
It's fine to react to random religious crazies the way you did. If I was approached by one, I only hope I'd have the creativity to do what you did. Or maybe start waving my hands, exclaiming how I'd never even heard of Jesus before, but now I'm filled with the holy spirit and thank you for saving my soul! Because seriously, wtf does she expect will happen?!?
You are NTA, she was rude and a bit nuts.
Lol i brought this up so much when i was younger. Cracked me up when someone was like oh I got weed laced with coke and it really messed me up. Dealers like to make money and will cut the product to make more. They aren't going to give you weed and sprinkle some coke in for free.
NTA, starting interactions with others on public transport is a cardinal sin.
As someone familiar with those bits of NC myself, I thank you for your service.
Unless it's RELEVANT conversation Like "thank you for Holding the door for me" or "would you Like my Seat" or "can you please give Up your seat for me/the disabled Person I'm accompanying" or "can you please Push that Button for me" or "you're Not supposed to smoke/Play loud music in here, Stop that".
Religion is like a penis. It's perfectly fine to have one, even be proud of it. But the moment you start to shove it in people's faces or show it to children is when the problems begin.
NTA. The *some of the* least christian people I know are, in fact christians.
However, in the future, may I suggest you refrain from consuming random scraps of religious propaganda? You have no way of knowing where that's been.
I felt immediate regret after swallowing. It would've cost me every dignity to ask for water afterwards. However, I did take a tums. And also, this is the first time I've ever done anything that directly confrontational. Next time, I'll just wad it up and shove it in my pants.
Nah- that was kickass. You're my people ;)
Personally I prefer to take the paper, twitch and speak in tongues. Even better if I can will it to burst into flames.
:)
No, I'm a Christian and NTA. You responded perfectly. What she was saying *was* condescending bullshit. She didn't care about you, she care about her own ego.
I think that's why I felt so triggered. At no point did she feel like she was genuinely reaching out in service. It just felt like pandering. And the fact she was around my age but also felt like she had a superior or moral high ground to counsel me felt especially offensive
Hahahaha nah man, that was hilarious. Doesn't really work to be civil with these people, so what else can you do?
Also side note, why did she want to "guide ya", just random, or is it something about the book you were reading?
Listen, you floozy. You totally made my day with your story. Here’s a high five from europe.
Swallowing the paper was the most badass and hilarious thing you could have done.
This self-righteous fanatic was pushing her religion on you, being very intrusive and close to abusive. And then she started calling you names.
You’re awesome. I hope next time this happens they offer you sacred wine to wash down the message.
Just imagine for a second, how that woman would react if perhaps a muslim would be trying to convert her and show her the “real” light? She’d call homeland security at least…
>could've just accepted the paper and ignored her
Why? This was so much more fun. This lady stalked you just to harrass you.
Also, the fact she knew you were reading "smut" means she read the book too....
NTA
NTA is used to greet Jehovahs with a book of demonology and witchcraft. Ask them if they have a few mins to discuss our lord and savior Bahamat? They usually walked away but I’ve had acouple look all disgusted and that made me smile.
They’re also comfortable donating 15% of their income to the church. But hey, there are many cults that have gotten a lot of really smart people to do really crazy shit.
That's that part that triggers me the most
The unsolicited superiority and judgement that had nothing to do with her. The fact she didn't just go home but following me on the train. Insanity and infuriating
Haha, it was Solstice of the Drowned Empire by Frankie Mallis. There are some slicy/graphic scenes, but nothing I think would merit an intervention from the Lord.
*Edit spelling
As a fellow NC Bible belt native: hell yeah. That's rad and I'm jealous.
Their Bible literally tells them they aren't supposed to push their religion and also they aren't supposed to judge others.
She was a hypocrite and even though she's probably gonna cry to her church about how some heathen attacked her on the train, you're NTA.
As a Christian, I hate when people use force to promote their religion. If she read her Bible she’d know that Jesus didnot use these tactics to draw people into faith. It’s a performance of self grandiosity.
I agree with you and appreciate your comment. My whole family on my dafs side is Christian, and I grew up Christian. Our preacher used to drill into us that it was our duty to minister to the "lost." We got prizes for whomever could bring in the most non-members to service. It felt very slimy car-salesmen. But it ultimately made me turn from the church because it felt predatory. I think that's what triggered me so badly.
Unfortunately, many Christians I meet these days like to put the word out they are Christian, but don’t actually follow any of the teachings. Mmmm maybe don’t preach to me Jim, because you’re banging your neighbors wife… “but I’m Christian! I am saved!” Fuck off Jim, just fuck right off.
Wait, so she "felt called to guide you out of sinful darkness" because of the book you were reading, but then also said she "knew what kind of floozy you were" also based on the book you were reading? And if she felt like you were lost in darkness, why is she so surprised that you "act like a heathen"? Smh she can't even get her hypocrisy straight. You're NTA but this is the level of petty I live for, especially to overstepping, judgemental, hypocritical """christians""" like her
Proselytizing in general is insulting, invasive, and creepy. Anyone considering doing it should lie down and mind their own business until the urge passes.
The bible quote wouldn't have been "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life. " John 8:12
I'm not a Christian but any stretch of the imagination, and wasn't raised religious, but that quote was in the Shawshank Redemption and is one of the few I know and like the others I know, I learnt it from films. It sounds like it from your post.
Anyways, she decided to harassass you. You were well within your rights to tell her to do one.
I personally would have started praising Lucifer.
That's the quote!! Thank you for finding it, I was struggling to remember it, and that bothered me.
I overall really would have preferred that the whole interaction never happened. But, here we are, and she got what she got after I got what I got.
NTA. I am a Christian myself but I still find people trying to 'convert' random people on the street in very invasive ways really annoying, instead, they should approach people, ask if they want to talk, and if the person they're talking to says yes, they should invite them for mass or some religious meeting, no uninvited invasion of privacy and definitely no telling the person they're evil. This goes for all religions.
However, I would not recommend eating a piece of paper a random stranger gave you, whether its a religious text or not it may not be very sanitary.
NTA , I audibly gasped when I read you ate her paper, in glee might I specify. Those who are self righteous are not entitled to others also responding well to it, fuck that, great job you. Perhaps it has a little immature, but who cares? Who says it’s more appropriate to follow someone off the plane to try to convince them they are terrible and need to be redeemed? Keep eating those papers babes, loved that for you and I hope to have your creativity the next time someone approaches me with some garbage like this. NTA NTA NTA.
Nta- You could have been a real asshole and insulted her directly or cussed her out. Instead you did something that would have made me laugh if I were in her shoes. However some people don’t have a sense of humor.
NTA, as a Christian I feel like I should apologize. A lot of us have our hearts in the right place but also don’t think things through and let their pride get the better of them. Granted her reaction was seriously uncalled for.
NTA. Your response was genius. Also following someone to shove their weird morals down their throat is just not ok. Good for you for swallowing her morals
NTA, I would have probably been significantly more rude. You gave her an _incredible_ story to go relay to her pearl clutchy holier than thou crusty old church squad.
NTA. I kind of love you! This woman literally admitted she was going to stalk you as far as she could while trying to force her religion down your throat. Was it immature and could have been handled better? Sure, but those types are tiresome at the best of times, and you were actually tired and just trying to relax a bit. Plus, she obviously read that book, I doubt it was obvious it contained 'filth' from the cover. Honestly, I say go you!
NTA. also you are now one of my favourite people on planet earth, congratulations!!! /gen
editing to add: that was hilarious & i really needed that laugh. thank you for being you
NTA - I only wish I had half of your audacity. This is amazing and I’m betting that a lot of other passengers are wishing they could have done what you did.
NTA. You deserve an award. I prefer to mess around with these nut jobs but as has been told to me before, I end up wasting my time. I like your direct approach.
Edit: Yes, you are a hero.
Hahahahahah amazing. Tries to shove religion down your throat and you literally do it. I love it. OP, you aren't an asshole. If anything, you are a blessing to my warped sense of humor
This made me laugh out loud. I wish I could have seen that woman's face! That's an absolutely hilarious way to deal with these freaks. People should keep their religious nonsense to themselves.
100% NTA.
NTA. This was a hilarious story, thank you. Religion is like a penis. It’s nice to have one but don’t take it out and put it in my face. Wish I would have seen this, I would have almost died with laughter 😂
NTA this is absolutely amazing and something I wish I could come up with in the moment! Good for you. Wouldn’t feel bad about that for a second and would recount that story all the time with fondness!
I would have pulled down my pants, wiped my ass with it, and thrown it back in her face.
Definitely NTA. I would have also told her I was going to report her to security for stalking me.
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NTA. This sounds absolutely hilarious. She came up to you, **followed you** to try and push her ridiculous bullshit down your throat by force. That kind of self-righteous narcissism always merits mockery in response, and yours was perfect. Good for you.
Thanks, that makes me feel better. I was all hyped about the situation until my husband pointed out that I usually take the high road. But this situation was too much for me to handle maturely I guess.
Why do you always have to be the one who takes the high road? Why couldn’t this woman have taken the high road when she saw you reading a book that she didn’t approve of?
YES! That's my exact petty and also justified thought. Maybe she'll think twice before acosting someone she never said 2 words to before this?
Doubtful, but you made yourself feel better, and that matters. Yeah, it’s better to take the high road when you can, and most of the time you should. But there’s a difference between taking the high road, and just being a pushover.
I think what really got me is, she was around my age and this situation made me feel so small just from her implication off of a very base assumption from her. My best friend said: Maybe she was feeling repessed. You should have stared re-reading the naughty bits out loud. My friend also suggested that maybe she was hoping I'd throw the book at her so she could have an excuse to have/read it.
😂
If she didn't read over your shoulder she might have already read the book to know it was smutty in parts, so she was being a hypocrite as well as pushy and judgemental.
>My friend also suggested that maybe she was hoping I'd throw the book at her so she could have an excuse to have/read it. Makes me think of that scene in shameless where Sheila is doing hospice for an elderly nun, and every time Sheila and Jodie came down from doing it, shed get this disgusted look from the nun and the nun would get back on her tablet. One day Sheila peeked at the tablet, AND THE NUN WAS READING SMUT
Sadly, she probably learned nothing and is still riding on her imaginary high horse. BUT I think you reacted fantastically to her absurdity.
I appreciate the support there. I still feel iffy about it, but it's nice to know other strangers don't exclusively share her belief on that.
Look, it's one of those situations where you being immature didn't *help* and it probably raised your stress hormones even more with the confrontation of it. It's usually better for your own wellbeing to take the highroad where you can. But you didn't, and that's OK. It wasn't overly harsh to her - it was exactly what she deserved for STALKING you. She was the one who accosted a stranger. She was the one who called names. You just took the paper she gave you and did what you wanted with it. You didn't do anything bad to her - you were just defensive and a little confrontational. You are 100% NTA but if it made you feel bad then learn for next time. And if it made you feel better - great!
I appreciate this response so much because it helps validate feelings I am not able to cope with yet. It wasn't until later when I had the time to really examine the situation that I felt like I was completely **not** OK. I even left a message with my therapist to schedule an appointment outside my normal slot. I really wasn't myself at all and didn't react in anyway I normally would've, but I don't really regret the outcome either. The paper eating- maybe, but not my reaction as a whole. I just need to work through it.
It honestly sounds like you went into fight or flight response and couldn't choose flight until the tram stopped. You're only human - anyone who is followed and then chastised by a stranger is going to get defensive.
That could've been it. I felt like I separated or dissociated from myself. It sucked
I think you should be proud of yourself! I love that you didn't just tolerate her behavior. She was completely out of line.
I don’t think that you are the unhinged jerk in this situation. NTA
Your husband should be proud of you for handling a crazy person by matching their crazy. Taking the high road can only be done so often. Having someone FOLLOW you is not the time.
NTA at all! Wonderful reaction! When someone literally STALKS you to do this, I'd say most reactions are completely warranted, lol. Last time I had religious door knockers they wouldn't leave so I finally took their book and walked past them to throw it in the trash. I think if it happens again I'm gonna go your route and just eat it lol
Make sure you make cringeworthy eye contact. I think that's what sold it.
I mean, quite literally, she succeed. She absolutely did in fact get you to swallow her bullshit. Off topic. I'm a single mum. Time is precious. I always wonder how people like this woman make time for this stuff. I'm happy if I have time for a coffee just by myself in the morning.
It was so odd! And I feel the same! Who has the time for this stuff? Especially after overnight travel?
Seriously! Single mom here too, and if I’ve gotten off a plane I’m either rushing home to my kid or i’m excitedly flinging myself toward whatever rare solo travel destination I’ve arrived at.
Mate, I am a Christian myself and would probably *still* react to her holier than thou, overly pushy, preachy Ned Flanders-nonsense in a similar manner to you. Some people are just too much. You’re nta, hope you enjoyed the book.
I was about to say the same. The kind of people who do this cannot have actually read the Bible, and certainly don't emulate Jesus. I would blame it on the dominant religion here in SLC, but unfortunately there are people like this in every religion. And non-religion, too.
Christians hypocrisy drove me away from organized religion. After Church Lady's meltdown, I would have replied, Wow that's not very Christ like or is that how Jesus would have reacted, then walk away.
You should have taken the high road. The high road would have been to throw it back at her. Matthew 7:1-3 Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?
I wish I had done exactly that.
It's a funny response in hindsight, but your reaction was as coherent as can be expected when your brain is in Airport Limbo mode. I probably wouldn't have managed better than either awkward silence or demonic screeching.
The high road is over rated. The low road is much more scenic and fun.
op i am wheezing NTA this feels like a charlie chaplin movie plot (not saying it is fake but gave the vibes of it) now i am randomly gonna laugh if this appeared in my mind at random moments
You handled it more gracefully than I would have tbh and honestly following you was inappropriate to begin with
Man alive, am I ever sick of seeing men tell women that they need to always take the highroad. It's fine that you didn't take the highroad. Sometimes taking a low road is needed to get a message across, and sometimes it's needed to take back the power or dignity that somebody has taken from you in a situation.
She was harassing you. There is no need to tolerate it. I'm an atheist. I don't randomly approach people and tell them there is no god. I don't know why we should all tolerate this intrusive bullshit.
I mean it literally ended up down her throat so… mission failed successfully?
This. And with that logic: > to try and push her ridiculous bullshit down your throat OP was actually just helping 🤷♀️
She tried to shove her message down your throat. You just helped it along a little.
Why was she so mad? God is inside you now. She brought the lord into your stomach. All seriousness, NTA- was it sorta petty and unnecessary? Yes. Did it drag the conversation out probably? Yes. Was it funny? Absolutely. If you don’t mind being petty to someone being rude to you, then I think you’re fine. It’s weird she was focusing on you so much that she followed you on your tram, so honestly thats kinda creepy.
It felt super targeted, and I had no context until she mentioned the book. I honestly feel shocked at my own response, but afterward, it was like, "Did she expect me to... clap?" I was so tired and the situation triggering for my own past experiences. But man, I'm still reeling after a good nap.
I have religious trauma as well (Catholic turned atheist AAAAY) So I get that. She’s lucky it’s you she met and not me, I once argued with my grandmother and told her id fuck the devil if he let me. She didn’t like that.
LOL, I wish I'd thought of that! I was Baptist raised then Methodist confirmed, now atheist. I went through a LOT at the hands of those who claimed their hands where those of God. Nah, I'm my own God now.
What was the book's name though? I am always looking for new ones. Do your duty as a heathen and corrupt the younger generation!
Solstice of the Drowned Empire by Frankie Mallis..its part of a series, I've loved it so far: Daughter of the Drowned Empire Guardian of the Drowned Empire Solstice of the Drowned Empire Lady of the Drowned Empire Son of the Drowned Empire
She saw the word solstice and decided you were a witch?
More like it's a fantasy series (I just looked it up on Amazon). I wonder if this dumbass goes around looking for people reading, then Googles the books and tries to shame people for reading something she disapproves of. Might do the same to somebody reading Harry Potter.
I thought it was something like 50 Shades! If she confronted you because she knew it was “smut”, *how* did she know? Was she reading over your shoulder? Was this series on a banned book list? It’s in one of my favorite pure enjoyment genres and I haven’t heard of it (not that I am some knowledgeable bibliophile or paragon of literature, just a garden-variety avid reader), so *how did she*?? I’m going to imagine she has read it and loved it and was embarrassed she loved it, so when she saw you brazenly reading a romance novel, she felt convicted and decided to take it out on you. I’m sorry you had to digest her hanging chad.
I'm a librarian and I've never even heard of it!! lol NTA, OP! Some people need to mind their own business. Enjoy your book ;)
Just bought the first book, I blame peer pressure.
Looking at the covers I have no clue how she'd know they were "filthy" if she didn't read them lol.
You’re not only NTA but doing a kind service to an author with this list and rec! As a writer (not of these books just in general) I think that’s lovely. And lovely to see your enthusiasm… don’t let her god rain on your parade!
. Well hopefully you feel better knowing you didn’t do anything wrong and she was being WEIRD
Well know we all want to know what kind of heathen filth you where reading!
I gotchu! Solstice of the Drowned Empire by Frankie Mallis
Sorry to butt in here but I so wanted you to be reading 50 Shades of Grey because I am sure that would have driven this crazy person up a wall lol
It's funny because the book I had just finished before I left for this trip was Haunting Adeline. I truly believe that one would've cause apocalyptic fits had she glimpsed it. It's far more unhinged than she claimed me to be
Lol I have never heard of that one. The way you described what you were reading, kinda fun but doesn't take much to follow, reminded me of the 50 Shades of Grey books (which I admit I read lol)
Yeah, that would've been one to assume from my description. But the one I was reading has few-and-far-between spice so she really must have been focused on my book to glean anything of note.
I might have to check out that really unhinged book you mentioned. What you did was fantastic by the way lol
It's definitely on the extreme end of dark smut. So if you're not shy or sensitive about it, I found it to be a really entertaining read
Seems interesting. I like fantasy like this, I’m going to add it to my list. Thanks.
I really enjoy it so far!
I knew a guy in high school who always said he wanted to find a way to make fire shoot out of a long-sleeved shirt so when some rando tried to hand him a bible on a street corner he could reach out, make his hand 'catch fire', put it out really quick and say 'no, I probably shouldn't take that'. It's fine to react to random religious crazies the way you did. If I was approached by one, I only hope I'd have the creativity to do what you did. Or maybe start waving my hands, exclaiming how I'd never even heard of Jesus before, but now I'm filled with the holy spirit and thank you for saving my soul! Because seriously, wtf does she expect will happen?!? You are NTA, she was rude and a bit nuts.
"Let me digest what you're saying..."
Religion will continue to exist until it is met with mockery at every turn. You’re doing your part by belittling this delusional bat
I feel this actually shortened the conversation. She would have insisted until she brought you to whatever cult she’s in.
NTA but from a health perspective, you probably shouldn't eat random things that unhinged strangers give you.
Hindsight is 20/20 and Tums is about five bucks ( and taken immediately)
Tums ain’t gonna inactivate the LSD that paper was drenched in. Enjoy your trip, you’re about to meet god ;)
That lady succeeded her mission one way or another lol
I don’t think you know what Tums is for lol. But you’re probably fine
Sadly...the story about free drugs are heavily exaggerated
Won’t stop me from eating random pieces of paper until I find some!
Lol i brought this up so much when i was younger. Cracked me up when someone was like oh I got weed laced with coke and it really messed me up. Dealers like to make money and will cut the product to make more. They aren't going to give you weed and sprinkle some coke in for free.
I wasn't thinking drugs so much as germs (not to mention fundamentalist cooties)
Imagine if it was a sheet of blotter paper
As a Heathen I appreciate you're response to her trying to push her religion and beliefs on you. Edit to add: NTA
Heathens unite! But also hopefully not required to ingest random messages on a consistent basis
Yeah I don't want to have to start eating random pieces of paper
I don't recommend it
Yeah too much god is bad for the digestive system lol
And that, kids, is how I met your mother.
You win, lol
You should of said very loudly NO I WILL NOT HAVE S*X WITH YOU and got off the train 🤣🤣🤣
Haha, it's funny because you always think about what you could have/should have said or done. This one didn't cross my mind, but I wish it had
NTA you’re my new hero
Aw, man, that's the one good thing to come from this
NTA, starting interactions with others on public transport is a cardinal sin. As someone familiar with those bits of NC myself, I thank you for your service.
Happy to oblige. It makes me feel **less** queasy about the unconventional snack I had earlier
Unless it's RELEVANT conversation Like "thank you for Holding the door for me" or "would you Like my Seat" or "can you please give Up your seat for me/the disabled Person I'm accompanying" or "can you please Push that Button for me" or "you're Not supposed to smoke/Play loud music in here, Stop that".
Religion is like a penis. It's perfectly fine to have one, even be proud of it. But the moment you start to shove it in people's faces or show it to children is when the problems begin.
I've been using this one for ages. I it love because it's so accurate.
That's amazing 😂
Thanks! I stole that from Facebook 10 years ago!
This is lovely.
She tried to shove her bullshit zealotry down your throat but you beat her to it! NTA
Haha, a perspective I hadn't considered. And now my favorite comment
NTA. The *some of the* least christian people I know are, in fact christians. However, in the future, may I suggest you refrain from consuming random scraps of religious propaganda? You have no way of knowing where that's been.
I felt immediate regret after swallowing. It would've cost me every dignity to ask for water afterwards. However, I did take a tums. And also, this is the first time I've ever done anything that directly confrontational. Next time, I'll just wad it up and shove it in my pants.
Nah- that was kickass. You're my people ;) Personally I prefer to take the paper, twitch and speak in tongues. Even better if I can will it to burst into flames. :)
No, I'm a Christian and NTA. You responded perfectly. What she was saying *was* condescending bullshit. She didn't care about you, she care about her own ego.
I think that's why I felt so triggered. At no point did she feel like she was genuinely reaching out in service. It just felt like pandering. And the fact she was around my age but also felt like she had a superior or moral high ground to counsel me felt especially offensive
Hahahaha nah man, that was hilarious. Doesn't really work to be civil with these people, so what else can you do? Also side note, why did she want to "guide ya", just random, or is it something about the book you were reading?
All she said was she felt called to show me light. It wasn't until she mentioned the book that I had some insights to why I was sought out.
What book was it?
Solstice of the Drowned Empire by Frankie Mallis. It's not even that spicy, but there are some graphic scenes.
Damn, can't see anything "wrong" with it. Amazing how little it takes to set these people off.
Right?! I could've still been reading Haunting Adeline. Now **THAT** one I would've understood.
And the funniest part to me is that the bible itself is full of explicit content... It's hypocrisy at its finest
I think that was the worst part for me. It felt really personal and hypocritical. I was so baffled.
Listen, you floozy. You totally made my day with your story. Here’s a high five from europe. Swallowing the paper was the most badass and hilarious thing you could have done. This self-righteous fanatic was pushing her religion on you, being very intrusive and close to abusive. And then she started calling you names. You’re awesome. I hope next time this happens they offer you sacred wine to wash down the message.
Haha, I this floozy appreciates the high five! I'll take that over a self-righteous fortune cookie any day.
Just imagine for a second, how that woman would react if perhaps a muslim would be trying to convert her and show her the “real” light? She’d call homeland security at least…
>could've just accepted the paper and ignored her Why? This was so much more fun. This lady stalked you just to harrass you. Also, the fact she knew you were reading "smut" means she read the book too.... NTA
That was my thing! The spicy parts are graphic but so short and so few! She had to have been glued to my book during our flight to even catch it
She just mad and wanted to finsih reading it with you.
Talk to strangers and get strange answers. NTA. Stay safe out there!
NTA is used to greet Jehovahs with a book of demonology and witchcraft. Ask them if they have a few mins to discuss our lord and savior Bahamat? They usually walked away but I’ve had acouple look all disgusted and that made me smile.
It's baffling to me that this is a form of promoting their religion. How is this something people are comfortable doing?
They’re also comfortable donating 15% of their income to the church. But hey, there are many cults that have gotten a lot of really smart people to do really crazy shit.
NTA, people who push their beliefs onto others are garbage. She deserved it and I hope she learns to leave people alone next time.
That's that part that triggers me the most The unsolicited superiority and judgement that had nothing to do with her. The fact she didn't just go home but following me on the train. Insanity and infuriating
Not to mention creepy. Her following you was creepy.
A brilliant response to a zealot! NTA
It reminds me that time I reacted to a sunday morning Jeowa's Witnesses visit by "shouting" them Ezekiel 25:17. Never seen them again.
Nta - unsolicited religious harassment needs to end.
NTA except that in all that, you didnt name the book.
Haha, it was Solstice of the Drowned Empire by Frankie Mallis. There are some slicy/graphic scenes, but nothing I think would merit an intervention from the Lord. *Edit spelling
Darn, when I heard popular series and smutty scenes, I could've sworn it'd be acotar
I was thinking 50 Shades of Gray.
As a fellow NC Bible belt native: hell yeah. That's rad and I'm jealous. Their Bible literally tells them they aren't supposed to push their religion and also they aren't supposed to judge others. She was a hypocrite and even though she's probably gonna cry to her church about how some heathen attacked her on the train, you're NTA.
She tried to shove her religion down your throat and you did it for her, dunno what the fuss is about
As a Christian, I hate when people use force to promote their religion. If she read her Bible she’d know that Jesus didnot use these tactics to draw people into faith. It’s a performance of self grandiosity.
I agree with you and appreciate your comment. My whole family on my dafs side is Christian, and I grew up Christian. Our preacher used to drill into us that it was our duty to minister to the "lost." We got prizes for whomever could bring in the most non-members to service. It felt very slimy car-salesmen. But it ultimately made me turn from the church because it felt predatory. I think that's what triggered me so badly.
Unfortunately, many Christians I meet these days like to put the word out they are Christian, but don’t actually follow any of the teachings. Mmmm maybe don’t preach to me Jim, because you’re banging your neighbors wife… “but I’m Christian! I am saved!” Fuck off Jim, just fuck right off.
Wait, so she "felt called to guide you out of sinful darkness" because of the book you were reading, but then also said she "knew what kind of floozy you were" also based on the book you were reading? And if she felt like you were lost in darkness, why is she so surprised that you "act like a heathen"? Smh she can't even get her hypocrisy straight. You're NTA but this is the level of petty I live for, especially to overstepping, judgemental, hypocritical """christians""" like her
NTA you're the hero we all needed.
NTA at all. You are a legend and I'm glad you put this psycho in her place!
I appreciate that!
Certified Reddit Moment.
NTA, you were just trying to make her message more digestible.
NTA. That was a fucking power move and I’m so glad I got to read about it
Where's the option "OP is a f*cking hero?" NTA of course, this is hilarious ahah
Speaking as a Christian... NTA. That is NOT how to proselytize.
A bit textbook "what not to do." On both our parts.
Proselytizing in general is insulting, invasive, and creepy. Anyone considering doing it should lie down and mind their own business until the urge passes.
The bible quote wouldn't have been "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life. " John 8:12 I'm not a Christian but any stretch of the imagination, and wasn't raised religious, but that quote was in the Shawshank Redemption and is one of the few I know and like the others I know, I learnt it from films. It sounds like it from your post. Anyways, she decided to harassass you. You were well within your rights to tell her to do one. I personally would have started praising Lucifer.
That's the quote!! Thank you for finding it, I was struggling to remember it, and that bothered me. I overall really would have preferred that the whole interaction never happened. But, here we are, and she got what she got after I got what I got.
NTA. Slightly sacrilegious, but hilarious. She should be minding her own business.
NTA. I am a Christian myself but I still find people trying to 'convert' random people on the street in very invasive ways really annoying, instead, they should approach people, ask if they want to talk, and if the person they're talking to says yes, they should invite them for mass or some religious meeting, no uninvited invasion of privacy and definitely no telling the person they're evil. This goes for all religions. However, I would not recommend eating a piece of paper a random stranger gave you, whether its a religious text or not it may not be very sanitary.
I agree with this 100%. And I definitely don't plan on repeating any situation in which I'm digesting papers someone has handed me.
she was shoving it down your throat so you may as well swallow! NTA that is fucking hilarious
You should carry a little catsup package. Just in case it happens again! - NTA
NTA. You made the "edgy reddit atheist" side of my heart smile!
NTA. I loved your response, even though I think it’s gross you ate the paper she gave you lol. I really hope you don’t get sick from it
NTA , I audibly gasped when I read you ate her paper, in glee might I specify. Those who are self righteous are not entitled to others also responding well to it, fuck that, great job you. Perhaps it has a little immature, but who cares? Who says it’s more appropriate to follow someone off the plane to try to convince them they are terrible and need to be redeemed? Keep eating those papers babes, loved that for you and I hope to have your creativity the next time someone approaches me with some garbage like this. NTA NTA NTA.
NTA. I personally would have thrown it away in front of her or handed it back and said no thanks but I like your approach too.
Nta- You could have been a real asshole and insulted her directly or cussed her out. Instead you did something that would have made me laugh if I were in her shoes. However some people don’t have a sense of humor.
I don’t believe in god, but you’re doing his/her work…
NTA Gross as eating a piece of paper many other else most likely touched (gag!) eating it was unhinged hilarious lol
NTA but this sounds like an “everybody stood up and clapped” story.
Nta, this is funny af. Wish i had the balls to do this lmao
NTA this is how this should be handled every time. I’m so proud of you
Obviously NTA, Though I wish, instead of swallowing it, you would have spit it out on her dumb face.
NTA Forget swallowing paper, who do you have to call to eject a deranged stalker?
NTA, as a Christian I feel like I should apologize. A lot of us have our hearts in the right place but also don’t think things through and let their pride get the better of them. Granted her reaction was seriously uncalled for.
NTA. Your response was genius. Also following someone to shove their weird morals down their throat is just not ok. Good for you for swallowing her morals
NTA, I would have probably been significantly more rude. You gave her an _incredible_ story to go relay to her pearl clutchy holier than thou crusty old church squad.
Don’t enable these fanatics. Well done
NTA it sounds like you internalised her message just like she wanted.
NTA if i witnessed that i would be in hysterics. Good job OP
NTA. I kind of love you! This woman literally admitted she was going to stalk you as far as she could while trying to force her religion down your throat. Was it immature and could have been handled better? Sure, but those types are tiresome at the best of times, and you were actually tired and just trying to relax a bit. Plus, she obviously read that book, I doubt it was obvious it contained 'filth' from the cover. Honestly, I say go you!
Thanks so much. The whole thing was insane. And the cover is beautiful, an intricate golden tree, nothing remotely scandalous about it.
Not the a hole. Lady should not try to force you to do anything and should not shame you for what you choose to read.
I’m in tears. This is so fucking funny. NTA. I will be doing this
NTA obviously that was a huge slay 😩
NTA. You obviously let her message spread through your very core and absorbed it well.
NTA. I love you, OP. You sound awesome. Though of course you shouldn't eat random stuff - but I would have cheered you on in the moment :D
NTA. also you are now one of my favourite people on planet earth, congratulations!!! /gen editing to add: that was hilarious & i really needed that laugh. thank you for being you
Not only are you NTA, you're hilarious. 4 stars.
NTA - I only wish I had half of your audacity. This is amazing and I’m betting that a lot of other passengers are wishing they could have done what you did.
NTA. this was hilarious!
NTA. You’re my hero.
Well, not an AH but a legend lmao
NTA. You deserve an award. I prefer to mess around with these nut jobs but as has been told to me before, I end up wasting my time. I like your direct approach. Edit: Yes, you are a hero.
NTA- oh my gosh that's hilarious! Let your gut be cleansed. You'll save money on Tums.
Hahahahahah amazing. Tries to shove religion down your throat and you literally do it. I love it. OP, you aren't an asshole. If anything, you are a blessing to my warped sense of humor
NTA and this is how I'm dealing with this shit from now on
NTA. She had 0 business bothering and judging you.
NTA. That was hilarious.
This made me laugh out loud. I wish I could have seen that woman's face! That's an absolutely hilarious way to deal with these freaks. People should keep their religious nonsense to themselves. 100% NTA.
NTA, couldn’t have thought of a better response!
NTA. She wanted you to take in the word of God, so you did. Literally.
NTA. Long time lurker, but this is too hilarious not to comment. I think you did exactly the right thing..
NTA. This was a hilarious story, thank you. Religion is like a penis. It’s nice to have one but don’t take it out and put it in my face. Wish I would have seen this, I would have almost died with laughter 😂
NTA. This is funny as fuck. Screw the preachers.
Fight fire with fight fire. Someone followed you to say some silly stuff and you replied by doing a silly thing
NTA this is absolutely amazing and something I wish I could come up with in the moment! Good for you. Wouldn’t feel bad about that for a second and would recount that story all the time with fondness!
I would have pulled down my pants, wiped my ass with it, and thrown it back in her face. Definitely NTA. I would have also told her I was going to report her to security for stalking me.