I'm a recovered fundamentalist. Suffered a lot of cognitive dissonance over the years which led to a anxiety, depression, etc. Finally had an epiphany that was far too late in coming. Even though it meant the loss of my family and many of my friends, I stepped away from religion. I then wrote a book that pretty much debunked the Bible from cover to cover. Made the case that Jesus was a fraud based on Hebrew texts and the Old Testament. Have been vilified by all ever since. I need friends who think like I do. I am strictly a rational thinker. No, I'm not a Vulcan!
Children are so programmed to fit into the society thru church, instead of actually parenting. Kids know the bible is a comic book, even the "devout" are touting God just to be accepted in polite company.. One look at the reborn teabaggers is proof religion is just an excuse to hate your fellow man, especially if he has darker skin. Every bible thumper who tries to talk to me gets a very wet raspberry. Organized religion is now a for profit business, and perhaps always was- certainly in Spain and England. I classify religion and gun radicals in the same block of toxic people who want desperately to be important
"Not a Vulcan", ! Priceless! ...
Don't feel too alone, Inc. I am inclined to think most of us (who were raised in religion) suffered through depression and loss of community, family.
The delusion and panacea of religion is cruel to its victims.
We, here at Agnostic, are becoming a community, imo. Welcome!