In MOST families there is ONE dominate partner, this has been shown throughout history (ie. Matriarch or Patriarch) Why is it necessary to define your life by your religious beliefs, or lack thereof? Why is it necessary to 'come out' as an Atheist? Can't a person simply have his or her own opinion of God, whatever that may be? Why do we feel it necessary that others believe the same things we believe?

I realize it's dangerous to be an Atheist in many parts of the world, (including America) but what is so bad about simply keeping your opinions to yourself if it will avoid the chance of conflict? Why do I need to say "I'm right and you are wrong"? Why must I risk my life to prove others wrong, what good can this possibly bring me? I know it's impossible to live in a society, ANY society, without being judged by THAT society and I also know that Government and Religion are so intertwined, even though they claim not to be, that they are virtually one and the same. If you are born in America, you will MOST LIKELY become a Christian, if you are born in Iraq you will MOST LIKELY become a Muslim... FACTS ARE FACTS. I believe I should be judged on my actions in society, NOT my opinion of God. (whatever that may be)

My little girl now has a little computer in her back pocket that can virtually answer ANY question in the WORLD, this not only changes the 'dating game' COMPLETELY, it changes the entire game of life completely. This, to great extent, is why Atheism is on the rise. Now when Daddy gives little girl an answer that doesn't sound quite right, she can go to her back pocket and PROVE Daddy wrong, and we all know there are MANY things about Religion (and Government) that don't sound quite right.

• What will you do about holidays?
• What will you say to your kids?
• How will you raise the kids?
• What will you do about the in-laws?

Although I was baptized a Mormon, holidays were NEVER religious events in my family, but rather excuses for fun parties or enjoying particular seasons..... What is so wrong with that?

My parents allowed me to make my own decisions about religion, as I do my own. (it was MY decision to be baptized, all my friends were doing it and I wanted to do it too) So what do you say to your kids? You encourage them to think for themselves and question ALL motives of ANYONE that is trying to 'sell' them Ideas, especially where Religious beliefs/opinions are concerned. (and this includes Atheists) Logically, TIME will reveal the truth that Religions, just like Governments, ARE A PROFIT BUSINESS. So, what about Atheists, will they stand the test of time?

Raise your children with love and understanding, but most importantly teach your children by example, if you want your children to become good people, be a good person yourself, this has absolutely NOTHING to do with your opinion of God! If you're an adult, (old enough to bare children) and you don't know the difference between right and wrong, you shouldn't even consider having children, but I think MOST of us do.

If the in-laws are good people you will like them, if they're not, you wont. Why is it necessary to even know what their private opinion of God is? Let them judge you by what they see you DO, not by what they hear you say (or think) and likewise, judge them by the same standard... It is NOT necessary to shout out your personal opinion,, it just complicates otherwise simple situations! LIVE BY YOUR EYES, NOT YOUR EARS.

~ John