Quote:The question is, what would you say to a theist who had a horrible life and is now, I guess, happy?
Well,this is what I actually say (more or less): "I'm A lifelong unipolar depressive. (currently stable) I'm also a recovering alcoholic with over 8 yeasr sobriety.Also an ex smoker( 7years) having quit a 70-a-day addiction.
I'm also an atheist. I sought and accepted the professional help I needed. However, I got well because I accepted responsibility for my own life and made a committed decision to change. I did that without relying on the crutch a ' higher power' and other superstitions."
Today I'm 1000% happier than I was in the grip of my addictions. I have not been suicidal for about 10 years.