Because i understand the nature of faith i am carefull to separate what I believe and what I know. Yet over and over again people make grandiose, sometimes judgemental, statements implying ultimate truth

I don't get the need to do so. There is no way I understand all the workings of the universe let alone higher powers. I doubt ANY human can make such a claim.

I understand deeply held beliefs feel wholly real but that is subjective. For example, I believe in ghosts and in several experiences I have had. Nonetheless,I know I cannot prove it. I can only recount the experience.

Why is it so hard for people to handle religion this way? It would certainly diminish hatred (or one would hope)

Why isn't it okay to say, "this is what I believe. This is why" and then let the conversation evolve?