Answers needed

[Jenny A]

Good morning!

I'm having slight brain overload from reading all the different trains of thought from last night, so I'll just respond here to some of the recurring topics.

[1]Several people have inquired what I mean by “god.” I mean a super-natural force evident through nature.

Supernatural means beyond or outside nature.  Can you explain what you mean by evident through nature?  If you mean a supernatural force working by natural means you have a contradiction in terms.  If you mean a supernatural force that affects the natural world then I need a definition of what the boundaries of the natural world are so I know what it would be to be outside the natural world.  If you mean the natural world is evidence of a supernatural force you have a losing proof of god masquerading as a definition of god.

[2]The topic of atheism and origins also came up. What is the purpose of distinguishing between definition and practice? Atheism is the lack of belief in the existence of god(s) (NOAD). It follows that atheists don’t believe the universe came into existence through god. This is a description of the atheist’s ultimate conclusion, not his thought process, so please don’t be offended.

Yes but, not thinking that the universe was created by god does not imply knowledge of whether: 1) the universe has always been or came into existence at some point in time; (2)  if the universe came into existence at a point in time, that it was created;  or (3) if the universe came into existence at a point in time, how it did so.

[3]Most people have assumed that I take the existence of God as a priori truth. I’ve stated several times that my interpretation of evidence (facts that are available to everyone, nothing new) is what leads me to God.

Then I can't image what facts those are.  Perhaps you could enlighten us?

[4]Regarding my motives, I’m a premed university student on summer break. No sermons being prepared. :-) Though why would you care?

I really don't care what your background is as it isn't relevant to what you have to say.  I don't see how your future profession could have much to do with your motives. Though given you the reasoning skills you've displayed so far and your general understanding, I'd love to know who you are so I can avoid being your patient in future.  Sound's dangerous.

[5] Again, (sorry for the broken record effect) thanks for sharing your beliefs. From this experience, I've concluded that forums are great for uncovering raw humanity. :-P I'm sure that all of you are delightful face-to-face.

lol. Sorry for the apologies too. Can you tell I'm Canadian?  

Yes people are ruder, or blunter online.  No, I couldn't tell you were Canadian by you appology for apologizing.