I f that brings you comfort, I am happy for you. As for me, I am more comfortable living in the question rather than the answer. It has more possibility.

No response is required here. The theist can believe whatever they want as long as they don't ram it down my throat.

I am not sure that it is my job to convert people.

As this is a statement, and not a question, my response would most likely be only a polite acknowledgment, but no commentary. I try to be respectful, and hope the same is accorded to me. Why start an argument that will most likely end in no resolution, and anger?

Why bother responding? Everyone is entitled to her/his own religious beliefs provided they don't impinge on the rights of others.

I'd say I'm happy you have something that gives you comfort. They're not asking for my opinion and I'd hope I could refrain from giving it.

"If that works for you, fine. Just don't mistake it for reality, because real things have to work for everyone."

I would congratulate them.

Cool, just keep it to yourself.

The problem is the word 'because'.

'Because' is a word that claims a 'cause and effect' relationship. When you say 'X because Y' you are stating that Y is the CAUSE of X.

Now let's take the two halves of this statement:-

"I believe in god"

BECAUSE

"my faith provides me with an anchor and an explanation."

Presuming this person is not lying, both of these sub-statements may well be true - but I cannot see how the second is a CAUSE of the first. I would see both as being 'caused' by a single, common factor - childhood religious indoctrination.

I am glad that you feel "anchored" but what happens if you loose your faith, as many do? Will you "drift" and end up on the rocks?

What's the context? If they came up to me and just said that out of the blue I'd nod and say the spaghetti monster does the same for me. It's pasta tentacles soothes my innards.

I'd say that if they've found comfort in that, then good for them. As long as they're not trying to convert others to their belief system, and they don't expect non-believers to adhere to a morality that goes with it that has no basis beyond "because my chosen interpretation of [insert religious text here] says so."

Maybe something like this: I'm glad your faith works for you. Humanistic ethics and science does it for me. We are lucky to have freedom of faith in this country. I have faith in humanity's ability to solve our problems with reason and compassion, without relying on a supernatural deity. Sometimes disagreements about religion is part of the problem. I'm glad we can each enjoy our chosen religion peaceably.

Firstly, this is someone who clearly has an internal focus and direction, which is a valuable gift in today's global climate. Any religion, philosophy, support for a soccer club or political party that gives meaning and direction to a life is a force for good in the world. This must clearly be identified away from radical or extremist views which is another discussion. It is so easy at times to confuse an individual's faith with institutionalised religious views, social constructs and racial stereotypes. Personal faith is a joy to behold, institutionalised radicalism is dangerous.

I would say Right on, I'm happy for you.

I'm glad,for them,but,we have our own beliefs and make our own choices,but good for you.

I will respond by saying, your faith is blind and the anchor will not keep you from drowning in ignorance as you cannot see reality. Have a nice day! ?

#thiest #faith #god #truth

" I understand you feeling that way, I explain the world a little differently."

I'd reply, the anchor is based on delusion.

Tie an anchor to your ankle, then toss it out to sea. Let me know how that works for you....

The Mafia can also supply you with an anchor and explanation. Doesn’t mean you’re going to be saved. An anchor can be a good thing but not if it drags you down, like bad blood. Love for yourself, mixed with compassion for those walking a difficult path, provides the best grounding. You can’t love yourself by trying to live up to another’s expectations but you can achieve discipline. That sometimes feels like love. Further, you have nothing to be saved from. If you’ve tried to be the best person you could be, at any given moment, then you’ve put in a great performance. You need not suffer for the sins of anyone else and neither did anyone for yours. Now smoke this with me and then go.

I'm glad for you, but I really hope you're basing your beliefs on truth and not just what people have told you was true.