A spiritually positive contribution from an atheist please read!?

Question

I'm using spirituality in the most secular sense possible, in that there are no spirits involved, just reflection, introspection, and pondering the universe and our place in it.

Having freed ourselves from the religious framework it opens the way for much more profound philosophies. I'm sure I'm not alone in thinking about all the improbable things that had to happen to make the world what it is today. And here we are, riding this terrestrial spaceship together, wasting our short time here hating each other and being jealous, instead spreading love and happiness. Why? It's so foolish. Will humanity ever make it to the stars? Will we ever learn to be truly egalitarian? Will we ever get over ourselves and just be?

I know other atheists think about these things, and I think many theists assume we never think about these things. What can we do to help convey to them that we are spiritual people, and that spirituality (remember how I'm using it) and truth don't have to be incompatible?

Answer 1

*applauds*

I think that sometimes, some religious fanatics are too adamant and think that only they are right, as some of you may think of them as such. It's to those that we cannot reach, even if we confront them, speak to them about it.

To those who are more tolerant to those without religion or of those who have different religions, they are already more accepting of us and others, as they do not persecute. And these are the people who understand that spirituality does not mean religion.

Answer 2

As far as positive contributions to society, they probably can do many things. Because one doesn't believe in God doesn't mean they can't feed the poor, clothe them or even help a disabled person who has fallen down. There may even be those atheists who go to visit the elderly. To give a definitive answer to this question is hard simply because what is important to society is to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ to those who are lost. Salvation is the only true contribution one can make to society. Now, this doesn't mean that those who make financial contributions to needy causes (if they are atheists) are neglectful of the needs of society. Perhaps some atheists can end up being converted due to the fact that they see true Christians doing the good deeds that Jesus commands us to do on a daily basis. People do good things because it makes them feel good. All because one is an atheist doesn't mean they can't make positive contributions to society. We have doctors, physical therapists and many other noble professions where the people don't necessarily believe that God exists, however; their contributions to society are beneficial. Giving money is the least beneficial thing one can give to society (if that's all they do). Someone such as Bill Gates (being a billionaire) should give more than the average person. After all, according the Jesus, if Bill Gates gives ten percent and I give ten percent, we have given the same. Giving is based on the intent of your heart. But charitable works require more than writing a check.

Answer 3

Am I not smart? I have to ask people to read by previous questions.

I set myself free of religion and now there is a open field and many journeys to take.

I love philosophy. I normally spend all day on it. Humanity making it to the stars is an idea, and aspiration as you put it.
Yes I think so, I am moving on.

You need to to reason with them (the Theists). It is possibe, but it will take, due to their faith demonstration, a long time (with no solid prediciton). Start right away and I will take part
(I will follow along).!

Kind Regards

I am not jealous but it is good to see real maturity. Keep this up and I can quit being an atheist, because your yeild would have outdone mine and I woud become reliant on you. Can you ask more questions of the same sound nature?

Answer 4

absolutely fabulous question. I'm not an atheist, but may I suggest you look among a few different Pagan Paths, many are not incompatible with your thesis. You are not alone, I to wish for true Peace on earth and feel that getting to the stars is an important goal.

Answer 5

A fair amount of atheists (not all!) start their philosophies and arguments by attacking the beliefs of theists rather than saying something like you did. i.e. We're all in this together so let's look foreword. Start by providing positive ideas and solutions rather than attacking another side.
Incidentally, a lot of theists do the same thing.

Answer 6

Craig,
I agree with Gypsy. This is wonderful and I feel you and I would get along very well. I do not put others down for their beliefs and I expect others to have respect for those around him/her. I am not hurt too much if you attack me but I do not like others being attacked because of their beliefs. Have a wonderful week and a glorious Holiday.
Thank You,
Eds


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Answer 7

Standing Ovation.

Answer 8

Ever read Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance?

By Robert Pirsig. I think you would love it.

Answer 9

you sound like a very sound person and with a great deal of common sense, i feel if you pursue just what you said than you shall find God in your quest, and i to think we should love one another , and i do love all , but am unwilling to compromise my belief,,for compromise guarantees failure, so ill pray for you, in love my friend , i don't think you are far from God,
love and prayers

Answer 10

It's not our responsibility to prove anything about ourselves to theists. Only a bigot can be held responsible for their own bigotry and saying we have a P.R. problem is rationalization of discrimination that I see through like a window.