The discussion on Monday night was stirring for me, to say the very least. It is very true to say that there is a problem with religious evangelism. Listening to Mr. Weinstein was an empowerment for me. It felt as though someone finally heard my silent cries for understanding.
A prime goal of mine is to not speak of my religion unless I am asked. I’m not ashamed to admit what I am, but I need to be careful who I tell. Even my closest friends will judge me according to their own prejudices, even if they have known me for years. It’s a fact I have come to deal with. As soon as they find out, or are reminded of what I am, they immediately try to bring me down, almost as though they were programmed to say it. I don’t blame them for wanting to change this fact about me, and I don’t blame them for talking down to me. When I feel my lowest, I try to remember that they were taught to say these things. And I know that the real Christians out there smile at me and treat me according to how I treat people and the world.
This speaker brought back the memories of my past. He reminded me of what I had dealt with everyday through high school, and what I deal with today. He brought back my anger and my need for revenge. I remember my graduation being ruined as I stood up for my beliefs when everyone else was staring at me. I remember being attacked by news crews and cameras afterwards. I didn’t do anything wrong. I just sat down when everyone else stood up, because what they were doing was wrong. And for what I did, I was punched in the head during my own graduation. I was silent and I was respectful. But someone decided I was wrong and took it upon themselves to punish me.
This man brought back every memory I have tried to hide. I was angry once more and full of hatred for what I have been through. But still, I don’t say anything to anyone about it. Even as the topic brought back my rage, the man presented me with hope. Someone out there knew what I was going through. In fact, many people knew. Everything that he said brought empowerment to me, and I now realize I am not alone.
Many probably think that it is rare to find a person who has been separated from friends and their community due to religion. I mean, this is America. Religious freedom for all, right?
“I am an Atheist.”
What is the first thing you think of from hearing this? Most people, from my experience, think of a monster. They think of a person with no morals or passion. They think of an evil being.
To say such a thing, is like stepping in front of a firing squad.
