Let's Start Over, I'm Blackrook and I'm Here to Get Some Answers to Important Questions

[TaraJo]

Anyway, let's start over.

My name is Blackrook and I'm a Catholic in crisis and I'm here to get some answers to some questions I have.

Catholicism has been a great comfort to me when I had feelings that I didn't want to live, and felt like killing myself.

I felt God's presence, literally reaching out to me and telling me I was loved.

Even now, in my current state of pessimism, I can look forward to something better after my bitter struggle in this world is complete.

What can atheism offer to replace that?

Ironic. My experience was the exact opposite. I saw some of the pain and unfairness and suffering in the world and couldn't understand how such a benevolent, all powerful god could allow it all to happen. That led to doubt which led to a deal I've made to any supernatural being out there: you reach out to me, I'll believe in you. So far, nobody has taken me up on that bargain.

Anyway, if Catholicism brings you comfort, that's all good for you. If it helps you feel better and you don't hurt anyone else because of it, you can believe in whatever you want (even if it is factually incorrect). Just don't try to push it onto me, ok? I'll respect your right to believe as long as you respect my right not to believe.