As an atheist, I still use terms like "god damnit" and "thank God". Maybe I just like to say it ironically? I guess people understand what I mean figuratively. But whenever someone calls me out on not believing in [a] god, I like to respond "only when it's convenient".
It's funny, I used to feel a bit cringed when someone would tell me "God bless you" or any type of phrase with a religious connotation. But these days, I actually appreciate it. I just interpret it as them caring about my well-being because since they actually believe in a god, they're sincere when they say it (at least I hope they are).
Anyone have thoughts on my current perspective and just on those type of phrases in general?
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Feel free to reply to any comment by clicking the "Reply" button.I keep saying those things too. And among my closest friends I usually go beyond and keep trolling them with "if you accept Jesus in your heart the movie will be good", Or "I declare this burger to be delicious in the name of Jesus".
AdrianTheGrey
Level 2
June 7, 2018
2
Old habits die hard. They also usually constitute cultural touchstones that others understand.
Sometimes in writing I use the ironic and quasi-dyslexic "dog" in place of god but if I did that in casual conversation or in mixed company, a lot of people would wonder what I'm talking about or if I'm just trying to be a dick, so ... when I think to, I tend to use neutral substitutes like "that's a relief" in place of "thank god". But I don't obsess about it. Pick your battles, and all that.
mordant
Level 8
June 6, 2018
1
God speak permeats our vernacular. Its colloquial & familiar. I don't believe blasphemy is the sole property of & only available to believers.
SallyInStitches
Level 7
June 6, 2018
0
I'm not an athiest, but I still use those terms as well. You are just so used to using them. When a religious person pisses me off I say "god bless you", but it's not a complement. It's designed to be blasphemic.
TheGreatShadow
Level 9
June 6, 2018
1
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