How do you deal with having to hide your atheism?
I’ve been an atheist for a couple of years now. I’m from an extremely religious area. I’m in college so, originally, the plan was to go far far away and actually be able to be open about my lack of belief while there. Unfortunately, my family went through some issues while I was away and I had to come back to help support them. I’m still in college but have to commute quite a ways to get there and usually have to come back immediately after my classes are over. Unfortunately, this town keeps shoving Christianity down my throat. I do not believe but the area is small enough that if I say something, the word will get out and I am genuinely scared of what will happen in that case. Does anybody have any advise that I can use to keep me from going crazy?
8
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54 comments (51 - 54)
Feel free to reply to any comment by clicking the "Reply" button.I don't hide my atheism either. Once in awhile I have to bite my tongue but most people who know me well enough know I'm a nonbeliever . But they're praying for me anyway. I've decided that if they want to waste their time it's okay with me. I don't argue about it. Just live and let live.
confidentrealm
Level 7
Aug 10, 2019
0
Hello Dave!
I am writing you because I have some questions for you regarding your life.
What was your first exposure to any sort of religion in your life? Have you always felt as you do currently as a humanist? How did you feel about life & its origin when you were much younger?
Respectfully,
Thaddaeus
m16566
Level 7
Aug 10, 2019
0
I live in the Bible Belt, so I largely hide it. If asked directly, I’ll usually say I’m not Christian (because that’s what almost everyone is here). If pressed further, I’ll sometimes admit that I don’t believe in anything — but it depends on whether I think there could be negative consequences from admitting that. Self-preservation first.
Apunzelle
Level 7
Aug 10, 2019
0
Is it really true that you don't believe in anything? You believe in evidence and logic, right? Everybody believes in evidence and logic. That's what invented all the technology everyone uses. You believe this and are not faith-based - which is what children use to believe Santa Claus exists. Am I right?
@dare2dream Well, I don’t mean I literally don’t believe in ANYTHING. I mean religion specifically.
@dare2dream Wait! Are you saying there's no...Santa! LOL!
@dare2dream I don't so much "believe" in evidence and logic as I understand it and am persuaded and convinced by it.
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