Non-Belief in Deity or Spiritual Realm Labeled as Religion by Some
A few days ago, one of my buddies made an intriguing statement – he said that in a debate between a religious person and an atheist, the atheist would usually have a cooler head. This comment sparked an idea I've been mulling over for a while: atheism bears some remarkable resemblances to a religion, except that followers do not have a deity they worship. Or maybe I should say that extreme atheists can sometimes behave like their religious counterparts – fanatical, over-devoted, and dogmatic.
Now let me start by admitting that I'm a spiritual person. I believe in something beyond the scope of our senses, which I call God, though I understand that this term may not resonate with everyone. To me, faith is about hope, about finding solace in the darkest times, and about expressing gratitude for the things we often take for granted.
I have my traditions and customs – tending to the Vidyarambham ceremony for my children, greeting the New Year with the Vishukkani, lighting the Diwali lamps, and decorating the Christmas tree. I don't believe in imposing my beliefs on others or mocking those who don't share my practices. That being said, I do challenge harmful practices such as anti-vaccination campaigns that put lives at risk, or traditions that perpetuate patriarchy or discrimination.
Now, I have found both types of atheists – those who appreciate cognitive liberty, and those who believe their way is the only way. The problem lies with this latter group, the extremists who feel it is their mission to convert everyone to their beliefs. I've even noticed some seem to derive pleasure from belittling others or trying to prove their superiority.
It's one thing to believe in the power of science and reason, but it's another thing entirely to ridicule someone personally for holding onto beliefs that don't align with your worldview. Just because someone finds comfort in religion, doesn't mean that their faith is any less valid or logical than someone who believes in science and reason. It's all about respect and understanding.
Here's the thing about fanatics – religious or atheist – they're obsessed with proving others wrong. They have a smug sense of self-assuredness that sometimes verges on arrogance. They don't hesitate to patronize others who dare to believe differently. This behavior, sadly, is hurting the very cause they claim to support.
Imagine someone going through grief, and turning to prayers for solace. It may not make sense to the atheist, but who are we to question their source of comfort? If their belief that their loved ones are smiley and content in the afterlife helps them cope, why belittle them? Why quiz them about why a loving God would cause them pain or question their intelligence for believing in such "nonsense"? What's the harm in simply letting them be and letting them find peace for themselves?
In conclusion, whether you're a religious person or an atheist, act with kindness and compassion. Respect others' beliefs and their right to their peace, whatever it may look like to an outsider. Instead of debating the merits of different belief systems, strive for understanding, tolerance, and acceptance. And remember – "live and let live."
Originally published on Medium.
Empowerment comes from fostering a lifestyle that respects and embraces the diverse belief systems of others, such as religious people and atheists, in education-and-self-development forums and personal-growth contexts. Healthy relationships are built on understanding, tolerance, and acceptance, rather than trying to prove others wrong or belittling their beliefs.
