Re: God.

chickenbutt · ‎03-09-2010

Hi Lilac Tree!

I'm in the same camp. Unfortunately, I find that if I actually use the word 'Atheist' I am met with a lot of scorn and disdain, as though it means something is wrong with me and, of course, I'm evil.

I get kind of tired of hearing that I'm an 'evil godless heathen and going to h-e-double-L'. First of all, I, like you, am not at all evil. I'm a very caring and giving person. How can I be 'less' something that doesn't exist. I'm not a heathen. I'm really quite civilized. Don't even get me started on how I'm supposed to be going somewhere that doesn't exist.

But all that said, I try to be kind to others with different belief systems, and those who are faith-based in their thinking. I understand why they do it. Heck almost everybody I know is a christian. Most of them are really - well, let's just not go there. It's just not what I want for me. Some of them are very kind, gracious people.

Like I always say - choice is always good. Even though I don't believe in the things that others believe, I will not consider them lesser people. Would I like to enlighten them, just as they'd like to enlighten me? Sure! But I don't and I won't, just as I don't like others preaching to me.

gmkb · ‎07-29-2012

We as individuals cannot talk someone into believing. We can only plant the seed and trust it will thrive. Because your father is talking about this, that is a good sign. I get the impression you are a believer. I would say to him that if he feels inclined to believe, it is okay and that you will keep him in prayer. Next, follow thru and pray for him daily and ask your priest, if you feel inclined, to keep him in prayer. I, too, will pray for him. Prayer will be more effective than educating him about religious teachings at his age. Please keep us posted on the outcome.

Bestdressed · ‎04-18-2010

@house_cat wrote:
I'm sincerely hoping that this thread doesn't go awry.
I'm also hoping that the QVC moderators will see its value.
I don't know where else to bring up this topic, as it's not a good one for the workplace. I value the opinion of the participants in this forum.

My dad is 92 years old and in ill health. Yesterday, he said to me that he wishes he could believe in God. He said that it would make him less anxious. He was raised Catholic, but I've never seen him in church except for funerals and weddings. My mom was also raised Catholic, but has rarely gone to church and doesn't follow Catholic doctrine.

Dad said that he wishes he could believe, but being the educated person he is, he can't reconcile the science with the spirituality. I know there are millions of educated people, who are strong believers in God.

Can someone please suggest something I can say to him?

Thank you in advance for not making your responses judgmental or divisive.

@house_cat ... I am so sorry your father is ill. I didn't read anything saying you are trying to get your father to believe in God. Your father said, he wishes he could believe in God and that it would make him less anxious.

If the subject comes up again, ask him if he would like to talk to a priest or deacon. He might want to because... it is on his mind. If not, he does not have to believe..but maybe if he has desire to. Then tell him all he just has to be willing. Like a current of electricity. You can't see it, but you believe it is there.

I hope he feels better. You sound like a very caring daughter.

NoelSeven · ‎03-09-2010

@qualitygal wrote:
At that age he may be searching for peace of mind knowing where he's at. Has he seen a beautiful sunrise and sunset. A man of science, has he seen and learned about the planets?

I just think the beauty of the earth says a lot. My dad at 90, passed about a year ago. He was at peace, he was a believer in God. For us and our beliefs it brings peace. Not all goes on in the world that I understand and although it is beyond me, the beauty of earth I know inside where I feel the credit goes to.

If others choose to believe or not, any other way, that's up to them.

**********************************

Just wanted to respond to this comment. I don't think not believing is a choice for people, it's just how they are and that's fine.

There used to be talk of the God Spot, you either had it or you didn't. I don't know what became of that theory, but that's pretty much how I see it, too.

I've known a few ministers who don't believe, either.

A Thrill Of Hope The Weary World Rejoices

Puppy Lips · ‎05-09-2010

My father and my brother are both men of science (engineers). My father is a firm believer in God and my brother is a confirmed and active athiest. At this point, I don't think you can change your Dad's mind. But if you tell him that you firmly believe he will be in a better place after he passes, maybe that will give some comfort for both of you.

Always remember that you are absolutely unique. Just like everyone else. Margaret Mead

LilacTree · ‎03-25-2012

@chickenbutt wrote:
Hi Lilac Tree!

I'm in the same camp. Unfortunately, I find that if I actually use the word 'Atheist' I am met with a lot of scorn and disdain, as though it means something is wrong with me and, of course, I'm evil.

I get kind of tired of hearing that I'm an 'evil godless heathen and going to h-e-double-L'.    First of all, I, like you, am not at all evil. I'm a very caring and giving person. How can I be 'less' something that doesn't exist. I'm not a heathen. I'm really quite civilized. Don't even get me started on how I'm supposed to be going somewhere that doesn't exist.

But all that said, I try to be kind to others with different belief systems, and those who are faith-based in their thinking. I understand why they do it. Heck almost everybody I know is a christian.  Most of them are really - well, let's just not go there.   It's just not what I want for me. Some of them are very kind, gracious people.

Like I always say - choice is always good.   Even though I don't believe in the things that others believe, I will not consider them lesser people. Would I like to enlighten them, just as they'd like to enlighten me? Sure! But I don't and I won't, just as I don't like others preaching to me.

Hi chickenbutt! I stayed in the closet for many years and also never used the word "atheist." But as I grew older, to me the worse word was "hypocrite." I surely don't talk about it often, but when I do, I properly describe myself and am not ashamed of it. As you have said, I do not preach to others. Two of my daughters are believers and I'm fine with that, as they are fine with me.

I have always said we are lucky to be born in the first place, considering the odds are billions to one even with the same parents. Just think, this earth and its inhabitants would still have existed whether we ever did or not!!

Formerly Ford1224
We must always take sides. Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented. Elie Wiesel 1986

chickenbutt · ‎03-09-2010

Wow, LT, you're right about 'hypocrite'. I usually just skirt it to keep the conversation civil. But I don't do 'fake'. I will usually just say that I'm 'non-religious' and leave it at that unless somebody asks for more.

Like I said, I don't like being preached at so it's just a way for me to not take it to the level where somebody feels the need to 'straighten me out' on such matters.

Good for you. There is no reason to not be proud of exactly who you are.

Glad you and your two daughters have a good relationship and can still be different. That is truly wonderful!