Yes, I’m an atheist, and no, I don’t hate your religion.
I always feel the need to say that when asked about my beliefs, especially when talking to those whose religion plays such an integral role in their lives.
People are quick to judge when someone admits to being an atheist. It’s why I usually revert to saying that I’m agnostic – the softer version of atheism. They think we live amoral lives, without the compass of the Bible or the Quran or any other holy text to guide us through life. That’s definitely not always the case. I went to church often as a child until I decided I didn’t like it anymore.
I returned to Christianity in middle school but it never felt right. I never truly believed in something that I couldn’t see and it took me awhile to realize that’s OK! Religion isn’t for everyone, and I’m proud to be a part of a community that recognizes that. Empirical evidence and scientific data is the way to get through to me. For me, there’s too much scientific evidence to dispute the existence of a God.
However, this doesn't mean I'm going to try and devalue your religion.
I don’t argue or provoke or try to shove atheism in your face. It’s something I keep close to my heart like everyone else’s belief systems. At times, I envy those who believe so passionately in something they can’t see, touch, hear, measure. It’s inspiring, and I love watching my friends explain how much it means to them. But I recognized that my brain (or soul, for that matter) operated outside of pure faith. I want to know why things happen and how things work.
I understand that religion is just one of the lenses people choose to view the world through. It brings comfort to people in times of hardship, stress, and sadness. And yet, atheism does that for me! It’s the lens I choose to view my world through and does not make me a bad person for doing so. It’s hard to see people so uncomfortable with sharing their personal beliefs because they feel under pressure to keep quiet to avoid being labeled as a “God-hating” person.
Even though I live my life free of religion or deities, I still have a knowledge of right and wrong. I understand that sometimes I make bad choices and I understand the consequences and should live with them. In some ways, I love that aspect of being an atheist. When I mess up, I don’t ask for forgiveness and move on. I live with my choices every day, knowing full well that I am the one to create my own path: something that has not been divinely chosen for me.
I won't try to cheapen your beliefs, so don't try to cheapen mine.
