One of the biggest stigmas Atheists face today (besides being devil-worshipers) is that we are cynical, loveless, empty sacks of people devoid of any true meaning in life. We are cynical and mean. We are grouchy because we have no belief in anything after life — and life sucks. In fact, most Christians (and other religious folk) I talk to say that they feel sorry for me; that it must be hard and lonely having nothing to live for. Of course, we atheists know that this is far from the truth. Actually, most of us (myself included) found that life became much more amazing after breaking free from the shackles of religion. Once the oppressive, unrealistic expectations were taken away, I felt liberated, free and truly happy for the first time in my life. Instead of looking forward to an eternal life in paradise after death, I started living in the now and taking advantage of all the amazing things life has to offer. Time is limited and, I don’t know about you, but I would much rather live to live than live to die.
So why is it that religious people view Atheists in such a negative light (besides the obvious reasons)? If we are all so happy and carefree, how could they possibly perceive us to be angry and empty? Because of assholes like this:
Let me explain what you are looking at here. I follow an account on Instagram that posts nothing but pictures of atheist quotes and funny atheist memes. On this particular day, however, the owner of the account posted a picture in support of gay marriage and LGBT rights, which I am not opposed to in the least. Unfortunately, there are still arrogant idiots out there that still believe they need to have a say in what goes on in a stranger’s bed and a debate ensued. The unfortunate thing about this debate is that this guy, who goes by, “theirateatheist” went on a rampage of bashing and shaming and name-calling instead of reasoning and logically arguing his point. This is merely one example of some of the fine things he had to say.
Now, I am going to give him the benefit of the doubt on two things, 1. He has already admitted via his screen name that he is irate — we were warned, and 2. it’s practically impossible to reason with someone who still believes they should have any say in what other people do with their lives (as long as it does not negatively affect others, of course). So, I get it. I get the anger. And, frankly, he’s right — the guy he is referring to is in fact a “fucking retard”. The problem is that those on the fence about their religion and even those who aren’t, have now seen firsthand how atheists are angry, empty, hateful people. Comments like this perpetuate the stereotype.
It’s a never-ending cycle and, the worst part is, we have done it to OURSELVES!
I propose we atheists fight the temptation and stop writing illogical, useless personal attacks on the religious and kill em’ with kindness instead. I mean, if religion has taught us anything, it has taught us that nothing recruits better than a comforting, judgement-free place full of like-minded and accepting people. If we can start showing people that atheists do in fact make better lovers, then I think we could persuade a lot more people to think twice about atheism and what life would look like without a god. We turn them away at the door before they ever even desire to peak inside when we call them names and act viciously to others. Personally, I think this world would be a much better place if there were fewer people in it that believed in a religion. The more we are able to show others how fulfilling and happy life can be as an atheist, the more people are likely to turn away from religion and, in the end, we would all end up winning.
Perfectly happy to volunteer. Any advice on what I must tell the wife?
Convince her to join in! Call it the Crusades of Love! (Not to be confused with the AIDS epidemic)
I am still a bit confused. I am 82 and a half so this understandable. Is the idea to post videos showing how great a lover i am or volunteer to convert frigid Fundamentalists?
Either one, the missus is going to balk at, I am sure, so your reasoning better be top notch.
Ok, ok. I don’t literally mean that we all should prove that we are better lovers, but more so that we are actually quite lovable! You know, nice words and such. No need to make the missus mad with videos and escapades!
Damn…there goes the dream of swinging with the fundies!
Sound advice. On a mildly related matter, I found it interesting to hear recently that charity offered by atheist groups was being turned down the States.
What?! That is something I definitely must read more about. I can’t believe that!
Here’s two stories. Not sure if these are the most recent ones or not. I saw the headlines on some Patheos blog posts but never clicked.
http://www.religionnews.com/2013/12/19/season-giving-atheist-groups-charity-rebuffed/
http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/religion/in-season-of-giving-atheist-groups-charity-rebuffed/2013/12/19/45ddbef6-68f2-11e3-997b-9213b17dac97_story.html
Wow… I am in complete shock and disgust. That just blows my mind. So sad.
Rather odd, isn’t it. One of those, Only in America, stories.
@ MISSYJBETTS
You were about to write on the topic “Crazy Atheism”; you told me.?!!!
I will eventually. I have lots of things I’m planning on writing, actually.
@ MISSYJBETTS
I think if the Atheists just stick to reason and don’t deride and ridicule others; and give respect to others; that might help them improve their image.
Is it difficult to do?
It is difficult when the religious “deride and ridicule others” and do not “give respect to others.” It’s a two way street.
I came across this page because I searched for “The Happy Atheist” *after* I created a page of the same name. (I’ll look for another title.) I posted the link on an atheist site on FB and got attacked for it. It’s true; atheists can be as mean-spirited as religionists. It’s time that relationalists take back the mantle of atheism. That or refer to ourselves by another mantle.
http://happyatheist.newsummer.com/