Funny, you don't look atheist...

Or... how not to judge a book by it's cover...
 

Exactly what is an atheist supposed to look like? 


 A short story from the beginning of last week: 

 So I'm putting gas in the car on the way to work this morning when a senior approaches me and begins a conversation. I look down and see what is in her hands [Jehovah Witness materials] and I tell her with my mischievous, Irish eyes and grin on my face... "I'm an atheist." I have never seen anyone so shocked in my life.. and I'm young yet. She asks "have you always felt that way?" My response, "Pretty much... I was a Christian... once." Her: "Oh, how interesting, have a nice day!" I think I must be the first female atheist she has ever met! LOL And we're so much nicer that she expected! Don't let that Virginia plate fool you honey!

   In actuality, I am a spiritualist. Which is much more difficult to describe than atheism. I am confident and comfortable with my level of understanding of all the major world religions. There are truths to be found within in each religion that is thematic throughout all of them. As a spiritualist, what do I ascribe to? Some of Buddha's teachings, some of the Native American teachings, but it is largely comprised of my personal scientific beliefs and Taoism. 

   If anything, I am not constrained by the fear-mongers found in both Christian and Islamic traditions and sects. Fear does not bring peace. Excessive rules do not bring peace. I am a non-conformist. 

   I have anxiety disorder and have found keeping stringent rules and complex systems increased my stress. Ever since, I have been on a rampage to simplify, simplify, simplify. I have written extensively on my beliefs before, you can revisit any post on this blog or On being an Intellectual Badass. 

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