AETHEIST SIGN

During this holiday season, would anyone dare to declare the above is true? How difficult would it be for the average person to state categorically that the tenets of the major religions of the world are nothing but made-up platitudes invented to control and oppress people?

Since nobody has come back from the grave to prove that there is an afterlife, how can we as intelligent beings rely on faith alone to answer this question?

Because there haven't been any major "miracles" lately, comparable to those in the Bible, how can we continue to believe that a god in heaven is capable of performing them? If there is, why hasn't this god shown us that miracles can ease the suffering of millions of people around the world?

I have a difficult time believing in the goodness of a god who allows an innocent 34-year-old man, who is just trying to earn a living, to become crushed to death by Black Friday idiots at a New York Wal-Mart rushing in to find a Christmas bargain. I also found it difficult to watch a YouTube video of the resuscitation efforts recorded by a laughing black woman at this unfortunate event.

I have a difficult time believing in the goodness of a god who allows millions of children worldwide to suffer and die from disease, famine, and murder.

I have a difficult time believing in the goodness of a god who allows women worldwide to be cruelly tortured and dominated by sadistic men.

I have a difficult time believing in the goodness of a god who allows murder all in the name of religion.

I have a difficult time working with people who shove religion down my throat even though it is illegal to harass co-workers based on religious beliefs.

I have a difficult time getting into the "spirit" of the season because so many have told me that if I'm not on the right side of religion, I'm just not right in this world.

I would love to believe there is an omnipotent being who loves us and looks out for us, but all I can say is, "where's the beef?" Show me the proof and I will be first in line.

For those who absolutely need to believe in a god, you are free to do so. For those who live their lives in fear of committing a mortal sin and going to hell, you are free to do so. For those who believe they were born in sin, you are free to do so. For those who hate in the name of religion, shame on you and may you go to hell, if there is one.

I would prefer to treat others with the love and respect they deserve and be treated the same in return. I would prefer to live in a world free from hatred, fear, and murder. I would prefer to bring happiness to those less fortunate than I. I would prefer to love my neighbor and live in peace.