no offence intended to the religious...

[ajva]

...but given the recent leap in religion-related sentiment on LJ (largely because we've just entered the Lent period, I think), I just felt it was important to say this:

I am an atheist, and I count myself lucky every day that I am.

I recognise that this, too, is a faith position, and that the only logically impregnable position is that of agnosticism. Therefore I am posting this not so much to undermine those who give witness to their religious faith, but because due to the non-evangelical nature of atheism, we hardly ever see anyone witnessing to their non-religiousness, and I felt a little balance was in order. I fully respect others' religious beliefs, and wish merely to express my equivalent.

I believe there is no God, no higher power, and I count myself as completely unspiritual. I believe that human beings have no souls beyond that which is a side effect of the architecture of their bodies and their brains. I believe that when we die, we completely cease to exist.

I am often irritated by many people's (not on LJ) assumption that not being a member of a particular religion makes my beliefs somehow negative. For me, atheism is a positive, empowering belief. To me, it means that I alone am responsible for me, my life, and my impact on the world. Only I can solve my problems and realise my dreams; only I am responsible for the good and the bad that I do for or to myself and others. I must make for myself my own purpose, and it is a challenge I enjoy anew every single day.

May your ways likewise bring you peace.

Comments

[djm4]

Just as long as she doesn't waste that slot slagging off religion and justifying atheism, like Richard sodding Dawkins did the last time they tried it. The way he carried on, you'd think that the only take we atheists had on world affairs was 'well, at least we don't believe in God'.