Hello

[xXxWashburnxXx]

Hi, my name is James. I recently became an atheist after having "thoughts" pertaining to my religion, Christianity, questioning its validity and messages it spreads. Mostly how genocide is ok some of the time and homosexuals should be killed, neither of these views I agree with. So, eventually after HOURS of thought I came to the conclusion that a "compassionate, loving, just God" could not exist. I have not told anyone irl about my religion (or lack there of).

[Amicale]

Hey James, a very warm welcome to you!

I hope that you find the forum a great place to 'break your ideas in' -- I know I have.

[MadBomr101]

It's fascinating how atheism is like the new gay.  Don't let it be.  Own it.  If someone asks you to pray for so and so or attend a service, speak in a loud, booming voice and a chest swelled with pride and tell them "No, thank you.  For I am atheist and do not participate in such activities!"

Maybe you don't have to be that theatrical about it but own it none the less.  Tank (or someone) will be along shortly for the reading of the rules.

Welcome.  We understand.

[xXxWashburnxXx]

Thanks guys, I appreciate it. Here's the thing, I'm 15, and still live with my parents. My father is a hardcore christian, but a truck driver and thus is almost never home. My mother... not so much. She still considers herself a christian but has begun to question the bible's message as well. It is a complicated situation. I came here seeking the opportunity to talk to like-minded people. As of right now I have no plans to tell them.

[Tank]

Hi Washburn

You'd be surprised how many people go through the 'WTF!' moment around your age. It's when the BS simply doesn't hold together anymore unless you really want it to!

I suggest you might like to look at the bottom link in the list below.

Thanks for making the effort to sign up and join in.

Welcome to HAF.

Regards
Chris

Notes for new members.
The Rules.

Users who comply with forum rules will graduate to full membership after 10 posts.
Till that time your ability to post is limited to the "Getting to Know You" section of the forum.
It is our hope that this small restriction improves the overall atmosphere of HAF.

Some threads you might find interesting.
Where did you get your username from?
10 Things About Yourself
Tell us A Bit About Where You're From
Photography
Non-religious pet peeves
Pets...what do you have?
Favorite Song, with video
How to tell your family you are an atheist.*

*You will need 10 posts before you can add a post to this thread, but you can read it at any time.

[The Magic Pudding]

Hello Washburn.

I thought teens were supposed to keep secrets from their parents.
It's good practice for later life. 

[Siz]

Hi Washburn,

Nice to have you here.

You know there are many people here who, like me, 'tried Atheism on for size' and then discovered that it fit prefectly. Everything else just seemed to fall into place. I think it'd be a useful exercise for all agnostics and Christians to try. Just commit to one day living as if there were no god. Contrary to what most Christians think, chaos does not ensue (atheist morality is well explored on this forum). I'm sure many who genuinely gave a solid commitment would find nothing other than a well-fitting jigsaw piece in their lives. It's a more beautiful universe without god.

Anyway, have a nose around and have fun.

[Recusant]

Hello and welcome to HAF, xXxWashburnxXx. (I like the extra Xs.) Unless you feel a deep need for some additional drama in your life, there's no urgency to come out to your parents, in my opinion. I think that it's likely your father would blame your mother for not providing you with sufficient Christian guidance, and it could get rather unpleasant. Early days yet, and in the mean time you can learn more about both atheism and Christianity (yep, I did say Christianity; I think it's good to have a solid understanding of just what it is that you're rejecting).

I hope you enjoy your time reading and posting here!

[Buddy]

Thanks guys, I appreciate it. Here's the thing, I'm 15, and still live with my parents. My father is a hardcore christian, but a truck driver and thus is almost never home. My mother... not so much. She still considers herself a christian but has begun to question the bible's message as well. It is a complicated situation. I came here seeking the opportunity to talk to like-minded people. As of right now I have no plans to tell them.

Welcome to the forum, Washburn. I think you'll fit in nicely around here.  Don't worry about being young, I'm 16.

You may want start with your mom since she isn't tied to Christianity, then you'll have someone on your side if/when you tell your dad. 

[xXxWashburnxXx]

Thanks guys, I appreciate the support 

[Firebird]

Welcome!

[Anti-antidisestablishmentarianism]

Hi, my name is James. I recently became an atheist after having "thoughts" pertaining to my religion, Christianity, questioning its validity and messages it spreads. Mostly how genocide is ok some of the time and homosexuals should be killed, neither of these views I agree with. So, eventually after HOURS of thought I came to the conclusion that a "compassionate, loving, just God" could not exist. I have not told anyone irl about my religion (or lack there of).

Welcome! The great late George Carlin once said if you sin he has a special place, full of fire, smoke, burning, torture, and anguish, where he will send you to live, suffer, burn, choke, scream, and cry forever and ever until the end of time. But he loves you! And he needs money!! Billions of dollars come in tax free and still they need just a little more! I guess god forgot to hire an accountant 

[xSilverPhinx]

Welcome!