Why I Blog About Atheism

A question I’ve been asked at least three times since starting this blog is:

Why blog about atheism? Why is something you don’t believe in so important to you? You don’t have a blog about your disbelief about Santa Claus – so why have one about your lack of belief in god?

Of course, the question is common – I’ve seen it more times than I can count on other blogs, forums, YouTube and in discussions at major news sites.

For me, the answer isn’t simple – there are many reasons:

  1. Helping the Masses: When I first started this blog, I was new to atheism and very excited to (to steal a Christian saying) “share the good news”. I wanted to help lots of people struggling over their faith, and let them know that the unthinkable alternative wasn’t so unthinkable after all. What better place than a blog to reach out? Of course, whether or not reaching the masses was a reasonable expectation is another matter.
  2. A Place to Reflect: Being relatively new to atheism, and having acquired an insatiable appetite for discovery and learning since the deconversion, I like having a place to think out loud and analyze. The fact that it’s a blog where others can help me through that process is a total bonus.
  3. Making Connections: I’m like anyone – I want to “meet” people I have something in common with. Since pretty much no-one in my personal life is an atheist, this blog is a good way for me to take part in a large, worldwide community of people I can relate to.
  4. Delusions of Grandeur: Again, in the beginning I had this idea I was going to write a book and help lots and lots of people. While I haven’t entirely ruled out the idea of writing a book, my delusions have settled down. I realize there are many very bright, very famous people writing on this subject. If I were to write a book, it’d need to be something really special – something written from a very different angle. So far, the brilliant insight I’d need for that to happen hasn’t materialized. I’m just fine with that. No pressure is a good thing.
  5. I Love to Write and writing about atheism was new territory for me so I welcomed the challenge. I also love the opportunity to improve my writing – a thing that only happens by doing (practice makes perfect!). I’d say that this is currently one of my biggest motivations for keeping this blog.
  6. It’s Mine: Sure there are other blogs and forums where I can share my views on atheism but, to me, that’s a bit like always going to your friend’s house for dinner and never having them over. I like having some space on the web to call my own.
  7. Anti-Theism: Yes, I have my moments when I’m disgusted with religion. They aren’t nearly as frequent as some atheists have them, but they do occur. It’s nice to have a place to vent.
  8. Separation of Church & State: I am, in this area, very concerned. In my home province of Alberta, Canada, I’ve seen how religious views can impact public policy. My aim is to be one of the voices that oppose that sort of thing.
  9. Helping that One Person (My Top Motivation): Having let go of the idea that I’m going to change the world (that’s an exaggeration, folks), I love the idea that I might one day help one person break free from their struggle with religion. And, who knows, maybe that one person will, after ditching god, embrace science and cure cancer or (getting closer to home) diabetes (my son is a Type 1 diabetic). I realize I may never know if I made that impact on someone, but it’s enough just thinking I might.

I’m not at all interested in deconverting people who are happy in their religion – especially if they aren’t imposing their religious views on others. If you’re happy, by all means, fill yer boots. That said, it’s probably become apparent that I feel there are people out there who are distressed by religion. If you are one of those people, please feel welcome here. I want to help you.

After all, I’ve been there.

Print Friendly
Be Sociable, Share!

Tags:

August 19, 2009 · Filed Under About Me, Atheism

Comments

4 Responses to “Why I Blog About Atheism”

  1. Godlessblogger on August 20th, 2009 at 3:12 pm

    Excellent. I just posted an article about why I blog for atheism. We have pretty similar reasons for it. My main one is to spread the word of atheism around. Even if I only reach a few people I have accomplished something.

  2. Godlessblogger on August 20th, 2009 at 3:12 pm

    Well by just posted, I mean a few days ago but anyway…

  3. Lisa on August 20th, 2009 at 5:50 pm

    Points 5, 7 & 8 are exactly why I started my own blog, although I do agree with some of your other poins. Point 5 is particularly important to me, I hope my blog improves my writing skills. I now have a reason to write something every day (unless I’m away), whether anyone reads it or not! It’s also good for when I want to rant about something- especially now I’ve finished university and no longer have my atheist society to go to!

  4. Lisa on August 20th, 2009 at 5:52 pm

    Although now I’m pretty frustrated I typed ‘poins’ instead of points!

  • Why I Blog

    I'm here to help doubting believers let go of their fear and guilt, to provide an example of an atheist leading a happy, moral and fulfilling life, and to connect with fellow non-believers. Welcome!

  • Subscribe/Bookmark

    AddThis Social Bookmark Button Follow 40yroldatheist on Twitter subscribe

  • Navigation


  • On Youtube

  • Great Reads

  • History & Statistics

  • Favorite Articles

  • Meaning of Life Type Stuff