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A New Refugee Washed Up On Your Shores

My name is Nicole, and I live in the Bible Belt (specifically Indiana).

I am an author (and have a day job that also keeps me busy).

I first considered myself an atheist way back when I was 13, when I read the companion book to the Joseph Campbell PBS series The Power of Myth and realized that my "religion" had a fair bit in common with ancient classical "myths". At that time, I fell into a deep depression, considering life totally meaningless.

Since then I have ping-ponged back and forth between belief and disbelief. Finally, in my late 30s, I have come to realize that I can have a happy, fulfilling life without superstition. I am in the process of leaving a church, which has been a bit painful. I am not brave enough to fess up to them that I don't, at this point, believe in God. I'm a little too neurotic for that right now.

But I am in desperate need of community with like-minded people. I'm interested in hanging out and learning something from everyone here.

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Permalink Reply by Brookelynne Smith on June 29, 2010 at 11:16am

Welcome! I hope you find the sense of community you are looking for here.

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Permalink Reply by Pat on June 29, 2010 at 11:29am

Welcome Nicole, from your neighbor (Illinois here). I had to chuckle a little when I read about a community of "like minded people." I think the only thing we all agree on here is the idea that there are no invisible beings with magic robes or super powers, nor any eternal theme parks for the good and bad. Other than that, a rather disparate group with a wide range of opinions on different topics. Nevertheless, everyone I've interacted with on here are very good folks. Again, welcome.

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Permalink Reply by Ally on June 29, 2010 at 11:47am

Welcome Nicole,
to varying degrees we are all refugees here -
which is what makes it great. I hope time spent on A/N can help with your isolation.
Cheers!

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Permalink Reply by Michael on June 29, 2010 at 12:03pm

Welcome! I am happy to hear that you are able to see the fascinating lights of reality. It is a shame that some people dwell over the lose of their superstitions and are not able to see the true beauty that this world has to offer.