Fact #7 I am an Atheist

So, time to talk about one of the most personal of subjects--religion or lack thereof. After years of wondering, I have decided that I am, in fact, an atheist. I just don't believe. I cannot make myself feel a faith that does not exist within me. I believe that there are many things that are beyond my understanding, or that of any human being at this time, but I believe that reason is behind all things, whether or not we are capable of discerning that reason.

What has struck me upon this acceptance is that it is really quite socially unacceptable to be an admitted atheist. I keep silent among co-workers or acquaintances when the subject of God or religion comes up, which it often does, even in casual conversation. Over 80% of Americans declare themselves as Christians. Any arguments about religion are often about what faith one believes in--are you Christian, Jew, Muslim, Hindu, etc.? The atheists are truly a minority.

It would be comforting to have a God to believe in, but if you don't, you just don't. Wishing doesn't make it so. My mom and I were having a conversation about this recently (she is a Christian). She can't explain her faith. I said that's what faith is--you have faith, you don't justify or explain it. In the same way, I do not.

So, that's enough of that. I am thankful that I live in a place and time where I can express my lack of faith without overt or state sanctioned persecution, even if it is a view shared by few.