Interesting post. I've often pondered why "religion" became a core need of our species. I get the need to explain the unexplainable. But Damn!!! Religion just seems so embedded in our collective psyche.
Why?

I for one am not Atheist, but Agnostic. I do not know how to prove or disprove that she exists. I do however believe in Santa! I believe that religions only purpose is to get people to behave better and that science is the correct method in our search for GOD< TRUTH??????????

Religion does not play any significant part of my life. However I live in a largely secular society (UK). So many of this site come from the bible belt and or theist families. They need someone to discuss this with. Also how can you keep religion out of your govt unless you band together. If this is not your cup of tea fair enough. There is music, movies, pets, politics jokes and all kinds of groups to talk in, welcome

Don't tell people unless it comes up.

Religion is the root of all evil? Now that’s what I call a true re-evaluation of all values, in the Nitzschean sense. I actually think that people are the root of all that is evil and of all that is good. If atheism became as common as white bread at the supermarket, people would still do bad things.

It's a fair point

I am guessing i am the Sheila you were speaking of?

Not me .. I was over that at about 5 lol

It's just where those people are! No thing - some need the bonding and thats cool if it works ?

Duh.....

Nice grand entrance into the community.

There is so much more here than talk about religion. Look around, you'll find all kinds of subjects.

So don't talk about it. No one is forcing you to.

Lot's of good suggestions here. I did not know we could filter them but that is what I am going to do. I get myself way too worked up when I see post headings discussing religion even though I know it is an important discussion to many (apparently) so filtering them sounds like a great plan for me.

You show a good point and I for one call myself very spiritual. All things are made up of the same star dust, as Sagan used to say. To hold that there is no connection of energy is of course foolish. But take it further and go deep inside to the other voice, each and every one of us has in their head, The one that talks to you and carries on a conversation. The brain part of me is small compared to the one that calls all the shots, who the hell is that, but me

There are those who are fence-sitters, and even those that have to deal with a highly religious family. Though yes I do get that it can be frustrating to not find a plethora of folks who are as solid in their lack of belief as we are. Then again, I feel that to shut out that conversation entirely makes me no better than theists that do the same thing. I find it limiting, and though I may come across someone that ends up with an 'agree to disagree' settlement; at least you can know where they stand.
At the end of the day people will use the position of the sun to justify horrible behaviors; humans are pretty brutal animals.

AGREED, I swear. And I will never mention religion again. Thank you!