Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Stephon Birch on January 25, 2012 at 11:54pm

Hey, Lisa. In all honesty, I became an atheist around the same time as yourself. I haven't told my family, beyond my sister, but I think it's implied that I don't believe what everyone else believes.  But to address your question about revealing your position to your mother, I wouldn't right off. Unless she asks or you feel that her religious position is imposing on your life (which I assume you'd be against), then reveal that to her. 

Permalink Reply by Lisa Cox on January 28, 2012 at 5:24pm

Thank you for the advice. I truly appreciate it. I love my mother dearly, but find it difficult to tell her about my lack of belief. I do think she does have some idea though, because she will sometimes mention that I should start going back to church. I haven't gone to church in years and don't intend to ever again. I know I will someday tell her about my atheism, but not right now. Once again, I do truly thank you for your advice.

Permalink Reply by Mrs.RB on February 27, 2012 at 4:29pm

I haven't told my mom either, because I know she would tell me I was going to hell.  She would probably ask me if I lost my  mind.  I have heard all the arguments she uses against people who don't believe in her god.  My uncle(mom's brother) was an atheist, so I have heard it all.  I am sure she would think that something horrible has happened, and I don't think telling her I just decided to think and use my mind would work as an excuse. 

Permalink Reply by Lisa Cox on March 10, 2012 at 11:30pm

My mother passed away on the ninth of february, so I'll never have the chance to tell her about my atheism now. I can't even begin to express my sorrow.

Permalink Reply by Sarah Walton on March 12, 2012 at 10:14pm

This is shocking and saddening news. I'm truly sorry to hear about your loss.

Permalink Reply by Lisa Cox on March 13, 2012 at 7:21am

Thank you. The worst part of it is all the 'well meaning religious people' who say they will pray for me, keep telling me that she is in heaven and that I should be good so that I can see her again. I haven't been able to truly mourn my mother. Some are even dropping subtle hints that I should go back to church. (never going to happen). I haven't told these people about my atheism. I don't really want to but I have to do something.

Permalink Reply by Two Cult Survivor on October 25, 2012 at 12:50pm

My sister passed away on Aug 31, 2012. At one point, when I was at a particularly weak point, I sobbed into my brother's arms. And he, believing me to still be a believer in fairy tales, tried to comfort me with the words "we do not mourn as they do." Meaning everyone around us, "those who have no hope." I darned near punched him out. We do not mourn as they do. Of all the arrogant exaltations of pathetic denial...

I mourn as a human being does, a human being who has suffered loss and recognizes that time only goes in one direction. It is a sad and beautiful and REAL thing. The Christian "hope" robs us of the reality of loss and mourning. We lost a beautiful and wonderful person, and he's treating it like "see ya later!"

No. No we won't.

And that's sad. And real.

My sister now lives in the memory of everyone who ever loved her. She would have appreciated the honesty if she had come to the understanding about faith that I have. I truly miss her. I truly mourn her. As others do. As others should.

My condolences on the loss of your mom.

Permalink Reply by Steph S. on March 19, 2012 at 11:12pm

Sorry to hear about your mom. I just saw this when I scrolled down the page. My thoughts are with you.

Permalink Reply by Lisa Cox on March 27, 2012 at 2:09pm

Thank you. I have good days and bad days. I love and miss my mom and deeply regret missing the opportunity to talk to her about my atheism. I truly appreciate your concern.

Permalink Reply by Steph S. on March 19, 2012 at 11:11pm

Hello Lisa! My mom doesn't know either! I don't even think about coming out to her. She happens to be very religious.

Permalink Reply by Lisa Cox on March 27, 2012 at 2:26pm

I know what you mean. My mom was also very religious. That is why I waited for an opportunity to sit down with her and really talk about my atheism. I actually had an opportunity two days before she died. Regretably, I let it pass. I may never know what her rhoughts might have been or if we could have reached some accord regarding my lack of belief. We were always able to discuss things, even things we didn't agree on. I guess this will be something I will have to live with.