The ones in my family just seem sad and worried for me. If they feel superior I don't pick up on it. I think I make them a little uncomfortable. My niece asked me once why I'm so much happier than her father, my brother. But I'm sure in her mind it was in spite of my non-belief, not because of it.
I've never tried to justify my beliefs to them nor have they asked me too. I suspect they are afraid that whatever I say might shake their belief more than it will mine.
I don't hate fundy Christians. I feel sorry for them. I don't suppose their lives are very satisfying, but I know it is possible to be a theist and have a healthy regard for themselves, others and this life. Some don't feel certain of an after life and don't care. They don't have to be at odds with science. Some ready the bible for its wisdom stories and don't care if every bit is inspired or true. I think contemplation of a God as a kind of personification of what is best, unshackled by a literal bible, could actually be enriching and uplifting. It isn't for me but it seems to be possible to be a very interesting and worthy person while being this kind of theist.
I've never tried to justify my beliefs to them nor have they asked me too. I suspect they are afraid that whatever I say might shake their belief more than it will mine.
I don't hate fundy Christians. I feel sorry for them. I don't suppose their lives are very satisfying, but I know it is possible to be a theist and have a healthy regard for themselves, others and this life. Some don't feel certain of an after life and don't care. They don't have to be at odds with science. Some ready the bible for its wisdom stories and don't care if every bit is inspired or true. I think contemplation of a God as a kind of personification of what is best, unshackled by a literal bible, could actually be enriching and uplifting. It isn't for me but it seems to be possible to be a very interesting and worthy person while being this kind of theist.
