"Religion" can be used to define any system of beliefs, practices, ethical values, etc, but I will assume you are using the word in the context of believing in some higher power. Often, people who talk about "spiritual oppression" are expressing that they do not want to abide by moral guidelines that are contrary to the way they want to behave; therefore they feel "heavily weighed down". Not that one with this attitude is devoid of any morals, but, for the things they want to do, they don't want to be told that there is something wrong with it. But that is what all religions do; they set up standards, values, etc. So, it is not odd that "religions" are verbally attacked. Many religious organizations, and the individuals in them, deserve it. But if you truly really know anyone (I mean know them well) that is a Christian, and trying to do it right, you can't help but know that they are not a fool. By the way; in what do you have hope?