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Why aren't atheists just trying to fit in?

Tue, 2008-02-05 15:03 — Renee Obsidianwords
Question:: 
I recently sent out a bulletin through RRSChicago refering to a funny skit by atheist comedian Jamie Kilstein the skit, and Jamies Blog containing the video, used the words: "little angry, pinch-faced Christian" in the description so I used it in the bulletin. I received the e-mail below from an atheist in response and had to shake my head as the past few months of discussions of how diverse atheist thought-processes are came rushing at me: Her E-mail: "As Atheists we have to work harder to fit into society. Fanatical Christians are accepted easier.... I want to be part of a positive group.. not one in a pissing contest with Christians. "little angry, pinch-faced Christian"
Atheist Answer: 

My E-mail response:

"Actually we aren't in a pissing match , we are searching for a way to communicate our views with theists that push their faith / belief into society; Schools, government, neighborhoods... Chamber of commerce meetings.

It just so happens that we live in the USA and christianity is the majority religion. You said it yourself, we have to work harder to fit into this society and the fact that fanatical christians are accepted easier has to have yourself asking if that is fair and why?

The Rational Response Squad uses an "in your face" "catch your attention yet?" type of marketing. Does that mean every single one of us in the squad agree on every single point? NO. As with any group dynamic, it takes all kinds. Within the Rational Response Squad there are what I would consider "hardcore atheists" and "warm and fuzzy" atheists. We all work together within one of the most *diverse in personality* atheist groups in America. There can't be just ONE way to stand up to religion.

Thanks for the time you took to respond! Maybe some day atheists can actually work together instead of against one another! I would pray for that but, well, you know."

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

My intention while being part of the group of RRS affiliates is to target "agnostics" and atheists that have 'heard' the RRS are *hardcore crazy atheists that are mean and angry*. (and yes I have been told this) I targeted agnostics when setting up my friends list so that I could slowly expose them to the RRS and what we have to offer in the way of community and information. I expected to have the biggest push-back from them. However, so far the biggest challenges presented have been by those that consider themselves atheist. Every e-mail I get from the nay-sayers actual fuels me to continue to push the message that Jake passed on a few weeks ago: "There is no ONE way"

-Renee
Rational Response Squad Chicago
Reposted from my blog on RRS
Jamie Kilstein

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