Happy Atheist Forum

Timothy (Timmy, Timmy B, whatever) here from Missouri. New here (obviously), and though I'm no good at it overall, I thought I'd drop by and introduce myself, kinda give some bearings as to who, exactly, dwells behind this monitor...

-After lurking here for a bit and reading the rules, I was very compelled to join up; it's rather hard to find a decent online community that, at the core, praises respect and tolerance over post-counts and sign-up dates.
-I consider myself Atheist, and I tend not to dwell on it very often (I reached my decision a long time ago and to date, nothing has shaken my stance, so...).
-Religion wasn't shoved down my throat as a child, nor was the lack thereof, and in this typically Christian America, I thank my parents for that. I have no epic Childhood exposure to `bible-thumping' or `bible-bashing' - I basically grew up, got my own experiences and exposure, and all that led me to realize was I should take most religious praises with a grain of salt and just try to be a generally respectful and all-around decent person to the best of my abilities.
-I am not one to believe the god/s (or goddess/es) you follow should have any bearing on how decent a person you are - I've always attributed that to common sense. Some of my good friends are heavily theistic, and somehow we see eye-to-eye more often than not. Hmm...
-I have a distaste for the pseudo-intellectual types that always have to be right and have the last word (nothing is more irritating in my opinion). I love the exchange of ideals, lifestyles, and philosophies - even a nice debate every once in a while - and welcome these things with open arms.
-If someone or something offends me, I consider it an act of God (snicker snicker) as it's not a feat easily accomplished.

To avoid a huge wall of text I suppose I'll leave it at that. Besides, y'all should learn more about me, as I look forward to learning more about you, in time, eh? ;D

Welcome!  I hope you like it here!  

Hello Tim

That was a nice and insightful introduction, thank you for taking the time to put it together. If you like thoughtful, civil debate and dialogue I hope this place lives up to your expectations, I think it will.

Welcome aboard.

Regards
Chris

Useful links for new members
Mission Statement (http://www.happyatheistforum.com/portal.php) Why this place is here.
Forum Rules (http://www.happyatheistforum.com/viewtopic.php?p=18210#p18210) More of a set of guidelines really, upset Whitney (She who must be obeyed) and you'll find the exit door very quickly!
How do I use the quote feature? (http://www.happyatheistforum.com/viewtopic.php?p=3442#p3442) If you are new to forums this is an important feature to understand. The maximum number of nested quotes is 3.
Help desk. (http://www.happyatheistforum.com/viewforum.php?f=39) Any problems this is where to ask them.
What's on your mind today? (http://www.happyatheistforum.com/viewtopic.php?p=8597#p8597) The general chit chat thread.
Somewhere to discuss the fear of dying. (http://www.happyatheistforum.com/viewtopic.php?p=70041#p70041) Many ex-theists have to come to terms with death, this is a place to discuss this issue.
How to tell your family you are an atheist. (http://www.happyatheistforum.com/viewtopic.php?p=69387#p69387) Some suggestions about how to deal with this thorny issue.
Parenting Beyond Belief. (http://www.happyatheistforum.com/viewforum.php?f=44) The forum for discussing how to raise your children 'Faith Free'.
Just a little advice for new Atheists (http://www.happyatheistforum.com/viewtopic.php?p=74241#p74241) Some thoughts for those new to reality.
.

I looked at my map, Missouri doesn't look very nautical,
anyway welcome aboard Timmy.