(October 8, 2015 at 10:57 pm)connietheTgirl Wrote: Brian37 forgot a book. The Bible. Read it. Really read it, not for inspiration, but for how your react to the stories. Maybe start with Exodus. Or the flood. Or - heck, just open the book and start.
My questions:
1.) Why are you an atheist?
Because I started paying attention to bible readings and what they were really saying. (Like you, I was raised Southern Baptist - then my parents went Pentecostal. I used to have to recite bible verses before dinner each night.) And I also started reading more about science and philosophy.
2.) What is life like for an atheist?
In the American Bible Belt, it's closeted, I'm afraid. People hate atheists more than homosexuals here. (sigh) Westboro Baptist Church is within easy driving distance of my house. (sigh) But even so, mentally and emotionally, I feel - more open, less fearful.
3.) There is no God. How do you cope with that? How do you find purpose and meaning in your life?
??? I'm an adult. I don't need Santa Clause/Big Daddy in the sky. I don't need to fear judgement and hell and rejection, which was really all gawd ever meant to me. There is work to do here in real life. People to care for. Education, environment, health, poverty, art, beauty, science - pick your favorite issue and run with it.
4.) What are your thoughts on death?
Lights out, time's up.
5.) Has being an atheist changed your life in any way? If so, how?
As I said in #2 - I feel more intellectually honest and open and receptive - no fear of angering the gawds with my questions.
"The family that prays together...is brainwashing their children."- Albert Einstein
