What is being an Atheist like?

[Jenny A]

Hi, I'm Connie, I'm new to these forums and atheism in general. I actually am Christian, and have been raised that way my whole life (baptist denomination). Being in the church is hard for me since I'm transgender, but I'm not leaving yet, because I still believe in God. However, I am willing to get some insight on to what atheism is like, from atheist themselves. I'm, how should I put it...educating myself on atheism. So, wooo!

My questions:

1.) Why are you an atheist?

I couldn't understand why grown-ups believed in such odd stories. As a middle aged woman, I ask what evidence there is of god? Hearing no answer, but "have faith" and circular proofs, I remain an atheist.

2.) What is life like for an atheist?

Probably not all that much different that yours. I have a husband and kids. I work, clean, read, and travel. I love my family and friends. What I don't do is bemoan my sinfulness, go to church, pray, or look forward to heaven, or fear hell.

4.) There is no God. How do you cope with that? How do you find purpose and meaning in your life?

What meaning does god provide? What is god's purpose for you? I've never heard a satisfactory answer to that question. As to myself I find meaning in love, living, and doing. I bet you do too. But I'd resent a purpose imposed from an outsider like a parent, government official, or god. And if a parent attempted to impose a purpose on your life, you'd resent it. What makes a god required purposed different?

5.) What are your thoughts on death?

I'm afraid of dying, but not of death. Death is just not being, just like before you were born. Was that bad? No, it just wasn't. I won't reflect on it after death because I won't be there to reflect.

Historically, gods weren't an idea intended to create meaning. No one took life's meaning from Zeus. Yet Greeks were quite self reflective (the inventors of philosophy in fact) and yet found no reason for a god in order to have meaning. Why do you?

6.) Has being an atheist changed your life in any way? If so, how?

I can't remember not being atheist. Being an open atheist has relieved me of church.

So my take away questions for you:

1. What meaning does god provide you?

2. Other than worship, prayer, and church attendance, would you behave differently if you were an atheist?

3. On what evidence do you believe there is a god? And on what evidence do you think it is the Christian god?

4. Are you afraid of death?