I sometimes remember the 'Brainwash-Buzz/Aura-type' of sensations from those days of unwarranted-belief, but I wouldn't want to go back to that crap at all-!
It's a nice feeling to have a sense of community with like-people but even among the like-people there was so much contention and animosity that it was usually quite uncomfortable. I used to miss a good social life but found that even if I socialize with different groups in my community it always comes around to Christian or religious discussions so now I'm happy to live alone and have my doggie companions.
Not at all. I was forced into youth group, and I always fell asleep during service. You think I wanted to get up on Sunday to go to mass, when I could have slept in?
I was never religious; I grew up in a non-religious household, but had brief periods of time occassionally attending church/church camp growing up so I could be with school friends (such as Sunday morning after sleepovers). I was not down for the religious aspects of it, ever, but I was, and still am, kind of envious of the built-in community aspect. It seems much easier to find an established community based on religion than any other shared interest/activity.
The same one I tried to follow before: treat others with respect and compassion. It's really too much to figure out if I should treat them the way they want to be treated, the way I want them to treat me, or they way I think I would want to be treated if I were in their situation. Respect and compassion seem to cover the bases.
I miss the sex. Friday confessional with father O'Flarety. Sweet memories. Sorry, I couldn't resist. Hope no one is offended.
If so I can here your confession Friday. Or my confession whatever. My grandparents were Church of God, what do I know about confession ?
No way!
And I don't miss the judgemental attitudes over what is just in people's heads.
That's like asking a woman if she misses her abusive husband. Totally don't miss having to lie about how god is blessing me, nor do I miss constantly being told I am worth nothing and only god gives me value.
IKR that is just mental and emotional abuse. I’ve actually had people tell me that we are all just sinful, wicked humans that don’t deserve God’s grace.
I do not miss the religious life. I never had a religious life although I grew up in a religious home.
Yes I do miss the social connections and events. The holidays seem less bright. I still love the holiday lights. When, where and how does a single anti theist, find reason in the holiday spirit? Is love just another biochemical reaction destined to always fade over time? Mostly I miss having a community to be a part of. Here in the Bible belt it is not easy to find friends with common ground.