No More Anti-Theists

[Catholic_Lady]

I think a lot of folks here see it the wrong way. Being "religiously motivated" to do good deeds is not necessarily about doing them for the sole purpose of being "rewarded" in Heaven or whatever. That would be simplistic and kind of counter productive anyway, since it's nothing but self serving and the whole point is selflessness and love. 

Growing up Catholic, I learned about the virtues of charity, generosity, forgiveness, honesty, etc etc, and I learned about having respect for and seeing the dignity in all people. Because all people (and all creation, really) are made by God and thus have inherent dignity and worth, no matter how small or insignificant they may appear. Those are the values that I was taught in my faith based upbringing, just like everyone (religious or not) grows up being taught certain values. 

I don't think I'd appreciate it all too much if one of my friends accused me of doing good things only because I'm trying to go to Heaven.

In all fairness, it's hardly atheists' fault for inclining to that view of religious motivations. A lot of religous people present themselves as subscribing to that self-serving reward/punishment system of morality through their behavior. The supposed accompanying baggage of loving thy neighbor, coming to peace and understanding with God, spiritual growth and what not just end up being a pantomime.

I just find it strange, because I come on here and see such horrible experiences y'all have had with people of faith, while my own experiences with them have been mostly very positive. I don't doubt y'alls claims, of course. It's a shame there are so many Christians who give off that vibe and act that way. That totally sucks. I guess I've been lucky not to have encountered many of them.