By using this site, you agree to our Privacy Policy and our Terms of Use. Close

I remember telling people from a young age that I was Christian simply because my family was Christian - parents, grandparents, etc. It wasn't until I was much older that I realized I had no idea what that really meant - my family had ceased going to church from when I was relatively young, perhaps before preschool.

I really began to question the meaning and everything about the Bible and such around 17 - I think the most astonishing thing for me was my dad telling me he didn't believe everything in the Bible - even mocking Noah's Ark. This truly gave me the freedom to continue to question, to seek out what truth I could in regard to evidence and logic. Continued pursuit led me to agnosticism through most of my early adult life. Only recently (maybe 2-3 years ago) to atheism in belief (while agnostic in matters of logic).

I will say this - the day I realized I didn't believe in God is the day I started holding myself accountable for my own actions and my life, rejecting any notion of aid/guidance from a high power. It was quite empowering and liberating. I hope one day all humans experience such freedom.

It's easy to avoid confrontation/arguments with religious folks - simply tell them you aren't religious. It shouldn't impact your family or friends if you're atheist though.