I have that refer to themselves as naturalists. I fall into that category, but I'm also agnostic

meant " I have friends...

@memetolva I think you just paraphrased Marx there. I would disagree and assert that professional sports has replaced religion, at least here, as "the opium of the people." One good thing about the Trump presidency is that it has so clearly exposed the blatant moral hypocracy of the evangelical right. So there's that.

I'll be open one day.

Unfortunately admitting you're an atheist or non-believer of any level can be damaging to your career, friendships, and family life . it would certainly be nice to be able to be totally upfront and honest, but I don't feel an overwhelming need to profess my atheism

I keep my religious, political, and cultural views to myself at work. I try to be open everywhere else. Still I stand in awe of those people in the south who advertise on their cars etc of their open atheism

I'm in a similar boat, but I am getting old enough and tired enough of tiptoeing around that I'm looking to actively let folks know so that I can live honestly with myself. I don't hide the fact that I'm a Cubs fan, a runner, or that I love watching comedies. I'm hopeful that they will understand or that I will eventually find a more like minded cohort.

In fact, I've started this process already, and have been pleasantly surprised. One of my friends (who had asked me to proofread some of her papers for seminary) has been pretty supportive. We still talk almost every day, just like we have for years.

I am also in the closet about my being an atheist as well. My mother is dying of cancer and I feel that coming out will only hurt my relationship with her. Since this is her 4th bout with cancer, and treatment is not working, she is clinging to religion for hope. She has less than a year before she is gone (according to her doctors less time). Already lost my adapted father to cancer and my biological father to lymphoma. My wife and kids know, but the rest of my family is strong southern baptist.

Would you call it an empiphany? "Until I actually sat down and read the Bible"....

@Philosopearl I've read the damn thing for research purposes. Long before Rashomon there was The Bible. A bunch of people telling contradictory versions of events which occurred decades before it was written. Reading it didn't shift me from being agnostic; it just gave me deeper bemusement at the thought that The Bible is a literal truth. Have believers even read it?

Do you withhold posting about it on social media because you see it as preaching?

I agree with Raven. I think one's personal beliefs, or non-beliefs, are a private matter. I certainly don't like being preached at, and I try not to do it to others.

No I don't hold back on Social Media - it's whether it's appropriate to the conversation or not.

Here Here...

exactly right

Good for you! I also understand the risks of 'coming out' in certain communities. Even in some countries, atheists are still being killed.

Black people show how strong religious brainwashing really is. In Africa, the christian religion wasn't even known when the slaves were being taken. Only a few generations afterwards and Jesus is on the name of nearly every black person in the United States as if it were an ancient tradition. It's unbelievable how quickly and deeply the brainwashing can get when it comes to religion, but it's good to see you've woken up from it. It couldn't have been easy.

Black only has Jesus to clung to during slavery, since this life was so awful, they could look to death for happiness. We still cling to that belief. And no it was not easy being black and atheist, I have Mexicanatheist friends who have the same problems.

I bet you have lots of interesting stories you could share. When time permits, if you feel inclined, please educate me/us on some of the "scared into belief" stories. You can share it as a post, as part of this thread, or my inbox. Just a request ????????

I want one of those stickers.

Indeed it is awful

Cool, and I agree the delusion is sad.

the believers, are very sure without any prove. So sad smart people religion turns them to be stupid.
No facts, no logic no prove
Their strong believe ,it is worthless to me

I can not wear something like that, I think it is dangerous, someone might kill me. As happened not long ago in a university in Pakistan.
It is not right to be afraid with a t shirt like that, on the other hand , they are too many sick people around.
bravo to you, I admire you.

@tonia I can say that I respect you for being smart and not risking your life. You are far too valuable to risk having some idiot come along and kill you for wearing a t-shirt. You have my respect.

My kids got me a Born Again Pagan Tee shirt, done in Gothic script years ago. I made a point to wear it to the grocery store on Sundays around 1PM. As near as I can tell none of these peeps can read. Yesterday I wore my Rosie Muscle " Not My President " hoodie to Wall Mart. I got some startled looks but zero shit from anybody. I have a " Nasty Woman" tee that I will wear to the march on the 24th. The first time I wore any of these items out, I thought there was a possibility I could be attacked. I guess if I have the balls to buy these things and wear them, that people realize I'm prepared to back it up.

Sad

Don't feel bad for you are not alone. I know people who are stuck in that same predicament, and religious folks can be difficult when confronted. Your friends know so that may be enough for now

@sloryd One of my sisters know, told her when I ran into her the other day and just told her while talking to her. She's not religious either and can understand legitimate reasons I don't share that with my parents.

Having the character and courage to be your "authentic self" is commendable! Welcome to agnostic.com

I know that feeling!

Grats on finding the coworkers!

I’m guessing you’re also outspoken. (?)

Pretty much. I certainly don't pretend to be religious.

love it, I have a sterling silver "A" pendant (the atheist A) I wear every day, no one has ever asked me about it LOL

Wonderful! Welcome to agnostic.com ????????

Please excuse the question marks. I didn't intend them.