And part of my Christian mindset was that since the way of Jesus was a narrow road, since "many are called, but few are chosen," and since God's ways often transcend human logic, other people would not always understand the faith I had chosen to live by. In fact, those of us who were true believers might even be persecuted for our beliefs. So I would need to look to God for courage to stay true to him, no matter how hard that loyalty might be and no matter what the cost.
I said goodbye to Jesus thirteen years ago, and I've never doubted my decision to say no to any brand of religious faith. A burden was lifted from my shoulders when I stopped engaging in the mental gymnastics of trying to make reality fit into the way of thinking and living I had found in the Bible. I've found a new freedom in my disbelief.
As a Christian, I saw myself as a member of an oft-maligned minority. I was perpetually braced for rejection by a secular world. But looking back, I'm not sure I ever experienced anything more than some mild rejection by those who did not agree with me. Actually, the strongest oppostion came from other Christians who interpretted the faith differently. Now I am truly part of a minority. I am one of "those people" who is "without theism," an atheist. If I tried to run for a public office in my home state, the legitimacy of my candicacy could be legally challenged because of my disbelief. Hundreds of people I once considered friends find ways to avoid me, and most of those who do stay in touch seem to have trouble accepting the new version of me.
I don't regret my new course, but I've learned this lifestyle requires courage. It's better not to do this alone. It helps to gain insights from others who've taken a similar path. It's important to find safe exit ramps from a life of faith.
That's what this website is about, providing insights, resources, and support for making, processing, and living with the incredible life change from faith to non-belief.
Tim Sledge Copyright © 2021 Insighting Growth Publications
Note: Thanks to @FreyrLord on Twitter for introducing the idea of safe off ramps.