Hello everyone....a friendly, new Atheist's story

[robvalue]

Thanks very much for sharing your story, it is very touching. I'm so sorry for what you've been through, it is absolutely disgusting. I'm sick of the way people do horrible things and then hide behind their religion and claim righteousness.

I have felt, and still feel suicidal so I know how horrible that is. I'm so glad that you had your breakthrough, it sounds like it really did save you. Once you're out of that mental trap, it all seems so clear doesn't it? It's like a lot of things, when you're caught up in it, and invested in some way, you just can't see the big picture. But from the outside, the hypocrisy, evil and controlling nature of religion is blatant.

Of course there is nothing at all wrong with being homosexual. There is no rational argument against it, or same sex marriage, apart from bigoted religious hatred. Stupid people are scared of those who are different. I got bullied all through school just for doing my work and not causing trouble. People will find any justification to pick on someone who they don't think is conforming. It must be some left over cave man instinct or something, and it's disgusting that people can't or won't control it.

I'm no authority on homosexuality of course, but I'd like to say there's no requirement to be feminine. Many gay men act exactly like a straight man would, drawing no attention to their sexuality. Just because that's how they are. It's up to each person how they express themselves and their sexuality. In a free and decent country at least, you shouldn't be judged for the behaviour that makes you comfortable.

I hope you find support on this forum, there are really great people here who I'm sure can help you out. I'll give you a tip I give to people coming out of religion that I have picked up. If you find yourself worrying about "God" actually being real, having doubts, fearing his judgement or hell, think about how much time you've spent worrying what Allah thinks of you? Or Odin, or Thor? Or Venus? There's an infinite number of "possible" gods, all of which are patently absurd, and everyone is an atheist against all of them but one. Atheists just go that one further. Gods are an invented fiction to act as a security blanket, easy answers to difficult questions (made up answers) and as a way to control people. There is not a shred of credible evidence that any of it has any basis in reality.

Anyhow, welcome aboard, and let us know if you have questions or need help with anything in particular!