Comments on: Pivoting Point

By: jaded

jaded — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 16:41:22 +0000

andrea, I hesitate to speak on behalf of other atheists, but as an individual I would probably be concerning myself with the impact the stick made, and whether or not it necessitated a response on my part. As for a christian’s take on the spiritual interaction of the stick with the water, I’ve no objection, provided their interpretation doesn’t infringe upon my rights, and they do not speak on my behalf. As for prayers, I don’t discourage others, if I did, it would infringe on their rights .

I attend religious ceremonies to support those in my life whom I love. I don’t have to mirror their beliefs to show family I am happy for their accomplishments (singing in the choir, or earning merit badges). I admire their perseverance in their spiritual journeys, and wish only the best for them. Being respectful of other’s beliefs does not marginalize my own. I wish you success in your pursuit of the spiritual path.

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Bob, what an awkward situation. I was in a similar situation when I was younger, and I basically lied about it to avoid an unnecessary confrontation. Now, I wish I had handled myself differently, not cruelly, but in a concise, respectful way.

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meno, I usually respond with, “I’ll keep you in my thoughts.” so I don’t I have to lie, and they feel reassured interpreting thoughts as the same as prayer…. I don’t volunteer that information either. But that question is more common in this region.

By: meno

meno — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 05:26:57 +0000

If someone asks me to pray for them, i say yes. i don’t DO it, but i say i will. After all, it’s all about making them feel better, and if it makes them feel better to think i am praying for them, all the better.

It’s odd how rarely any one has ever asked me directly if i am religious. I Don’t answer questions that aren’t asked. Safer that way.

By: Bob

Bob — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 14:03:37 +0000

its a tough row to hoe, an unbeliever in a believing land. I nod my head and allow others to assume, which works most times.

Within 2 minutes of meeting me for the first time, my MIL’s sister asked me if I were saved. I shucked and jived and dodged the bullet somehow – I don’t remember how. But that happens around here, occasionally.

Learn how to dance, I have.

By: andrea frazer

andrea frazer — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 04:18:07 +0000

Wow, you write beautifully, and you make your point well. For what it’s worth, and coming from a Christian, I don’t think it’s fair to ask anyone to give me what i want to hear. Sure, it would be nice if I were diagnosed with cancer to hear, “I’ll pray for you” but if you don’t believe in that, then your support would be enough. I would never expect someone to believe in my God, just like I could never pretend that God doesn’t exist just to appease you.

With God, as you well know, there is no proof. There is just faith, and then with faith, actions that build upon it. For me, those actions are God inspired. For others, an atheist perhaps, it’s simply what happens when one throws a stick in the water. Did it come back because God wanted it to? (My take) or Did it not come back because God had another plan for it? (My take) Or did it, did it not, come back because of a wind shift, it was too heavy, some other logical point? Perhaps your take as an atheist?

In the end, why does it matter. The stick either did or did not come back! I am happier with the result because of my faith. You are, or are not, based on your worldview.

In the end, we all do the best we can. And, since you are not of the God train, I will not leave this comment with God bless you. But I will sincerely, with heart, send you my best wishes!

(And maybe I’ll pray behind your back. But you’ll never know.)