It’s always been awkward for me to tell my religious friends that I'm atheist. It’s like telling your basketball team that you don't actually like baseball. Awkward. Over time, I’ve found it easier to open up to my friends about my beliefs but it definitely took courage. Courage to open my mouth and stand firm, and courage to say things without fear of offending others. Even then, I find that I still have some friends who don’t always understand what it is to be atheist. Whether it’s because they believe in the many misconceptions against atheists, or because I have said some things that make them think otherwise, I find it important for my friends to understand exactly where I’m coming from and what it truly means to be athiest.
Here are 7 things I want my religious friends to know.
1. I am not the Antichrist.
Being religious does not make you a good person, and being atheist does not make you a bad person. Just because I do not believe in God does not mean that I am a criminal who sins away. Being atheist means that you do not believe in God, and it does not in any way deem you a bad person. Any actions I take do not reflect the fact that I lack a belief in God, it’s just simply the way I am.
2. I don’t hate religious people.
Atheism does not make your heart more vulnerable to hatred and does not promote disrespect against other religions. Just like I appreciate people who respect my opinions, I’ll respect you for having yours. God or no God, I will treat you right as long as you treat me the same.
3. I do appreciate your prayers.
I know that to a person of religion, offering your prayers is one of the kindest things you can do, and for that, I am greatly appreciative. To me, offering prayers is the equivalent of a warm hug. I find it special that my friends and family take the time out of their day to ask their God to protect me or to help me. Even if I do not believe in God, I find it endearing and I consider myself lucky to have people that care for me that much.
4. Don't be afraid to invite me to mass.
Inviting me to mass is something you should feel comfortable with, even if I do say no sometimes. Even though going to mass makes me uncomfortable sometimes because I cannot relate, I do enjoy trying to learn sometimes. If you want someone to go to church with, or if you want me to try to learn about your religion, please let me know and I’d be willing.
5. Don't try to persuade me.
Shoving your religion down my throat will not make me a believer, but it will definitely make me mad. Just like I do not try to sway your beliefs, you shouldn’t find it your duty to change mine. I was raised Catholic, and I know about the church, so constantly badgering me about why I should believe and why I’m wrong is not going to make me like you.
6. If I act confused when you speak of religion, it's because I am.
Now don’t get me wrong, I was baptized, did my first communion and confirmation all through the Catholic church but that does not make me an expert. Half the time, I do not know what people talk about when they speak of the Bible or other things. I remember several prayers but that’s about it. When you come to me and tell me about a certain phrase in a specific book, I’m probably going to look like I’m confused. And in all honesty, I am.
7. I love you, God or no God.
The fact that you believe in God does not make me want to hate you. I love all of my friends despite their beliefs or lack thereof.
