(Not) Ichthus
Religion for me has been a dichotomy of good and evil. I have seen the comfort that is has given people during hard times but I have also seen the intolerance and hate that some preach in the name of religion. I have been an atheist since I was a teenager and since then I have felt like I was on the outside looking in.
I believe atheists can play an important role in interfaith dialogues. Because I do not believe in any particular religion it is easier for me to see the similarities and common ground between many religions. I think being outside and looking in as I mentioned before gives a sense of clarity that those within separate faiths cannot achieve as easily. I credit my parents with raising me as a compassionate and accepting person. Their guidance through their Christian faith is something that will stay with me forever. My mothers unwavering strength fueled by her faith in the face of incredible suffering has been amazingly influential and inspiring in my life. Many people judge Christianity and other religions without seeing these faiths as they are acted out in daily life. Coming from a Christian background and yet not identifying with a specific faith has given me a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between religions. Atheists who come from religious backgrounds are lent a certain open-mindedness that perhaps other individuals do not achieve as easily.
Religion for me has been a dichotomy of good and evil. I have seen the comfort that is has given people during hard times but I have also seen the intolerance and hate that some preach in the name of religion. I have been an atheist since I was a teenager and since then I have felt like I was on the outside looking in.
I believe atheists can play an important role in interfaith dialogues. Because I do not believe in any particular religion it is easier for me to see the similarities and common ground between many religions. I think being outside and looking in as I mentioned before gives a sense of clarity that those within separate faiths cannot achieve as easily. I credit my parents with raising me as a compassionate and accepting person. Their guidance through their Christian faith is something that will stay with me forever. My mothers unwavering strength fueled by her faith in the face of incredible suffering has been amazingly influential and inspiring in my life. Many people judge Christianity and other religions without seeing these faiths as they are acted out in daily life. Coming from a Christian background and yet not identifying with a specific faith has given me a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between religions. Atheists who come from religious backgrounds are lent a certain open-mindedness that perhaps other individuals do not achieve as easily.