Yeah, templar, many many kudos to you for your careful introspection!!

Hehe, but hey, at least you can't be burnt at the stake for your beliefs/practices anymore!!

On a serious note though, while it's not exactly the same thing, maybe it'll help. My Dad's side of the family has ALWAYS been really snobby and waspy. You know the type, repressed New England preppies... ug.
Anyways, my sister and I were born when my Dad was still in college, he and my mom split up, and he eventually got remarried and had a bunch of kids with his second wife. My sister and I have, ever since we were just little tots, worked so hard to gain the approval and acceptance of my Dad and his side of the family. Well, in my adulthood I've finally come to the conclusion that this endevour is utterly fruitless; they will never accept anyone else for who they are because they haven't accepted themselves. Yet, by refusing to compromise or apologize for who I am, I've seperated those people who really truly care to have me in their life from those who don't.

My point is simply, don't ever be afraid to stand up for what you believe is right for you. If your head and your heart guide you in a direction, go for it. The reality is hardly ever as scary as the worst-case scenario that's been playing out in your head.

Stay up, playa!