I Left Evangelical Christianity 5 Years Ago. Here's What I'm Still Deconstructing

[@GeneticallyModifiedSkeptic]

My friend Ocean Keltoi’s video on latent Christianity inspired some of my ideas in this video, so give it a watch: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iZnZq6qmqLZ_ZsU Ocean is a great example of how religiosity, epistemic responsibility, and social responsibility can co-exist, and I greatly respect him and his content.

[@OceanKeltoi]

Hey man, very much appreciate the shoutout. Huge support back to you in your journey on deconstructing and discovering yourself. I greatly respect you and your content as well. It's good to have good faith conversation, exchange of ideas, and honest criticism without viewing each other as fields for proselytism. Mutual respect is the best ground for productive dialogue.

[@Lerian_V]

@@OceanKeltoi 0:10 You found yourself no longer able to believe that THE VERSION OF CHRISTIANITY YOU WERE TAUGHT, AND TO THE EXTENT YOU UNDERSTOOD IT, was true.

[@cipherklosenuf9242]

@@Lerian_V After a lot of study and sincere contemplation I have concluded that people write books. I’m not that clever, it took me a long time to get there. It’s all literature, culture and life experience. What if we just let the ancient authors just be the tellers of their tales?

[@eagle6702]

Have you ever read How To Be a Stoic by Massimo Pigliucci? I think it may help you , along with his Field Guide to Stoicism. I really think they may be helpful.

[@icemachine79]

Perhaps your material comfort has also influenced your opinions. Would it be correct to say that you've led a pretty comfortable existence in that department?

[@thejesuschrist]

proud of you

[@The_Story_Of_Us]

Forgive me, father. For I have sinned. I nutted in No-Nut-November, is my soul beyond salvation?

[@asmallguy6124]

proud of Jesus Christ for being this cool :D

[@schlamothy]

Yo, you actually came back! Just stop giving cancer to toddlers now please mate 😂

[@BeanDogTally]

Hey what’s up J man? Hey let me know next time you visit haha, been a while. Kinda a lot of human suffering going on without any intervention from any higher beings. Kinda lame

[@PartyButler]

God bless 🙌

[@Outcast115]

Whenever Christians say that I left the church to sin, I tell them absolutely.

[@maxalberts2003]

Most Evangelical Christians I've met tend to be sort of on the icky, creepy side. Their message isn't cool, and they're easily roused to anger when you tell them that. What self-affirming person in his or her right mind would even for one second want what they have to offer?

[@SAK1855]

@@maxalberts2003 Because it provides meaning, purpose, responsibility, passion. Everyone in their right mind (and heart) wants those things. I agree the conservative evangelical path to these things runs through anti-rationality and, more often than not, terrible politics. But rolling one’s eyes at evangelical stupidity does nothing to offer people better paths to meaning - and it ignores the very real need that people (well, not-completely-shallow people) have for it.

[@maxalberts2003]

@@SAK1855 I refuse to defend that indefensible crap or any reason whatsoever. Remember--this is the crowd that gave us the donald. And Jerry Falwell. And Jim and Tammy Faye. Etcetera. Etcetera. This alone indicates to me the main reason why our country is in such terrible straits right now. It's the triumph of the undereducated, the vindication of the Great Unwashed. The types who put the low in low rent. I wouldn't go near one of them with a ten foot pole and a hazmat suit. And, like cockroaches, they multiply by the millions.

[@ministryofthewayofYehoshua]

Why not just leave the church? Why go and run to sin? You can still be saved without going to church my friend.

[@TorianTammas]

@@ministryofthewayofYehoshua Why would you follow a dead oreacher who was executed by the Romans? You do it as 5 marketeers made up stories about him that sell. He is one of many dead criminals the Romans got rid of, but you git told he is not a dread oreacher but a zombie who came back

[@BriannadaSilva]

The one about being reluctant to study religion because people will think "God is working in you!" definitely hits hard. I'm an exvangelical who has a deep interest in mythology and religion and I've had moments of dreading that exact narrative.

[@ribeye10000]

Me too :)

[@Psalms-fr8yy]

Who is Jesus Christ to you?

[@cipherklosenuf9242]

My walk of faith took me out of theism on a very slow path, so I relate very well to what you’re saying and appreciate the honesty and candor. Though I suppose I tick the box on atheism now, it still seems like that word doesn’t fit me because of cultural connotations, biases and conditioned fears. I consider myself a naturalist or scientific pantheist. Life and learning remain. Did you know that the root word of confidence is faith? Wherever your walk may take you, you remain beneath the sky….unless you’re Mall Walking …but you get the point. 😊 Be of good cheer!

[@schoo9256]

My advice? Go and learn more about a non Christian religion or source of mythology for a bit (for me it was learning about modern paganism, the Western esoteric tradition, and Wicca). If you're interested in the Christian religion go learn about the OT from a Judaic perspective. They'll be really hesitant about saying it then 😀 honestly these people are even suspicious of esoteric Christianity, they don't believe it is "real" Christianity. So they won't think God is working in you.

[@BriannadaSilva]

@@schoo9256 Haha that's a good point! As it turns out that is exactly what I've been doing; I've been studying religion and mythology but mostly NOT the Abrahamic ones. I've had most fun so far diving into Hinduism, Buddhism, and European Paganism/Druidry. But very very recently I've started rediscovering Semitic mythology and the Old Testament stories, seeing them with fresh eyes. That's where I've started to dread that narrative. But maybe the fact that I bounce between excitedly talking about the Ramayana, Eastern meditation, and Biblically accurate angels means that no Evangelicals will truly think I'm on my way back to the "fold." Hahaha, that's actually oddly reassuring, thank you for your comment!

[@minuit6305]

My therapist calls it "living a half life" my whole life i turned away good friends, parties, jobs, experiences just to end up old and naive. My mother is a fundamentalist and made sure to constantly control my every movement and put fear of being possessed by demons. Now im dealing with a disability that unfortunately left me in a wheelchair and left her as my caretaker. I feel ashamed that at my age i now have to learn basic life skills that i should have learned 15 yrs ago. Aint nothing more embarrassing than being old and not knowing basic life skills especially when people start asking questions in a condescending sort of way. You're left with no other room other than apologizing for the abuse your parent put you through and that you are trying to turn your life around.

[@deneb3525]

Never apologize for what happened TOO you. So your having to learn skills now because you never had the chance to before. Ain't your fault now is it!

[@paulread7113]

Stay strong friend. It is better late than never to learn life skills etc

[@adelinamitrofan8688]

I am so sorry you're going through this... ❤

[@KLmoxie]

we all learn something later in life. When you're ready, try no contact or strict boundaries with your mother so you can detox from the poison

[@dust.runner]

I see you. If the people around you make you feel lesser for not knowing, just remember that what you know and what you can do physically are not the same as how intelligent or capable your are. But most importantly, you are worthy and valuable regardless. There are many reasons why people may not know something that is considered 'common knowledge' and in my experience it isn't ever because of a lack of intelligence, drive, or desire to know. Hang in there!

[@jazzpear8877]

I was raised an atheist and I still have to deconstruct a LOT of Christian ideology in myself. We live in a society or whatever.

[@Psalms-fr8yy]

Who is Jesus Christ to you?

[@DavyDavePapi]

@@xstatic-ow5mz uhhhhhh

[@moatasemkassab4517]

@@Psalms-fr8yy He's an austere and normal person.

[@amineelabed4224]

@@xstatic-ow5mz here, take that. L

[@thraelyad6751]

@@xstatic-ow5mz nice trolling, next time can you make it a little funnier though

[@derreckwalls7508]

One of the hardest things for me to get over was realizing, after my deconstruction, how much hurt my indoctrinated self had caused to others. I was guilty of doing all the demeaning things that I now detest so much about Christianity. I credit atheism for making me more sympathetic, compassionate, and yes even more moral than I was as a Christian.

[@SDBartel]

❤️

[@IheartDogs55]

Me, too.

[@Antellars]

Christianity =/= source of morals

[@themplar]

I would say "Atheism allows you to show and realize your more symphatetic, compassionate and moral side."

[@derreckwalls7508]

@@themplar That's a better way of putting it. The "in group" prejudice was just preventing a broader perspective.

[@benburkin7942]

I'm 28 years out from escaping [the Jehovah's Witnesses] and still learning about myself, breaking indoctrinated ideas and reviewing my ideologies. Good video, all the best for your journey.

[@mmmsunshine5367]

Ditto....witness/evangelical 🥴- deprogramming is real

[@mikeygarcia8271]

The fulfillment of prophecies will serve as proof that God exist. God's promise that He will bring His people back in the land. In 1948 the Jews return to the land after having been scattered from all over the world for more than 2000 years after they were expelled by the Romans during the siege of Jerusalem in 70 A.D Mark Twain, a famous American writer and journalist visited Israel in 1867. This is how he described the land, " A hopeless, dreary and heart-broken land" Before the re-establishment of Israel back in 1948, the land was almost empty and desolate as Mark Twain attested when he went to visit Israel in 1867. But when the Jews came after the holocaust, they tilled the land armed only with simple tools to cultivate it. With God's help, the desert bloomed again...a fulfillment of a prophecy made thousands of years ago.

[@benburkin7942]

@@mikeygarcia8271 meaningless drivel... the level of proof you require is so low any purported prophecy could be true from any religion. There's 40+ authors responsible for the Christian Bible and we can't even verify who any of them are, let alone the veracity of any claimed prophecies. Educate yourself in biblical historicity, comparative religious studies, critical thinking and philosophy and then maybe you can manage a rational sentence.

[@mikeygarcia8271]

@@benburkin7942 Can I ask you something? Can a people become a nation again after having been dispersed in all parts of the world? And in the many countries where they were exiled, they were the minority and were heavily persecuted. They were not allowed to secure jobs and were often expelled from their lands.And throughout the ages, kings, queens, political and religious leaders tried to annihilate them...do you think they could survive as a people? could they become a nation again and become a powerful force in the region when they get back from exile, considering they are a small county, as small as new jersey with the land mostly dessert and were surrounded by enemies? yes or no?

[@benburkin7942]

@@mikeygarcia8271 what you have demonstrated is that you have little in the way of philosophical skills or critical thinking; the scenario you are talking about includes no clauses that are impossible to survive. So yes, it is logicaly possible for a societal and/or religious group to survive against the odds. In your proposal, you've failed to acknowledge your Christian centric bias, that it's a strawman fallacy set up to give the answer you want, that history is littered by genocides failing to wipe out their intended targets, that antisemitism is largely inspired by and the result of Christian xenophobia, and that the creation of the modern state of Israel was supported by Western Christians actively trying to bring about prophecy ... said prophecy leading to yet another genocide by the Christian god. That something that may be unique happened to the Jews, in no way demonstrates prophecy.

[@Mikey-dt5xi]

"My common ground for most relationships"... Man, I didn't realize this one until after I left the faith. It was sad to see how little Christians wanted to do with me once I didn't share their belief anymore. It was a very lonely period in my life. The bright side of things is that I was able to identify the authentic relationships in my life.

[@annabetsy5406]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/d3uZnIejiNmJerc

[@annabetsy5406]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/d3uZnIejiNmJerc

[@TropiCanada]

Once my mom and I left Christianity, the tone with the rest of our family definetely shifted. Cousins, aunts, and uncles all look at us differently.

[@Mikey-dt5xi]

Damn, I can imagine that it would be even harder with family members abandoning me. I'm glad you had your mom. I hope that you have found people in your life who l9ve you for you and not for who they want you to be.

[@jessicajohnston5693]

Yeah... I can't date anyone where I live because most people are Christian. I can't even tell most people that I am not Christian in fear of them being visibly uncomfortable around me, trying to change my mind or just ignoring me. This all has happened to me before btw. The fact, that I am not Christian, makes them uncomfortable but I want a harmonious relationship with my community. I plan on moving from Tennessee to Oregon when I can afford it. Or, I might even try moving to Japan to get away from guns. Bonus, people love there guns where I live, and I don't want to paint a big target on my back so I am SUPER careful about who I tell that to. When I used to work in a sports store I was allowed to sell guns at 18! A kid selling someone twice her age guns! Yes there were other people involved, and we did have yearly training on it, but recent events have made me realize that we need to do things differently. If not having guns keeps more people alive, I would rather us be alive. I think police, military, farmers and hunters can have guns, but the rest of us don't need them. I am curious what other people think. I can accept people who are different than me and treat them with respect. I actually like hearing from different perspectives! I just wish it didn't have to be an argument. I wish more people could have friendly, inquisitive debates instead. Edit: I remembered that farmers sometimes need guns to protect their livestock, so I added them.

[@rachelthompson9324]

the hard part for me was getting over the anger over being lied to all my life. The pain and self hate I carried over the guilt of being who I am is on religion. It is amazing how deeply damaging religion is.

[@asmallguy6124]

it's a traditional thing, it's natural for any kind of tradition to be scarring and especially dangerous

[@derreckwalls7508]

Anger at being lied to was a difficult thing for me too, especially when you realize that the people lying to you are victims themselves. There is just anger with nothing to be mad at, because you can't even be mad at God for being imagined as a psychopath. There is no effective way to get closure. You just have to accept it as having been totally meaningless and absurd.

[@SDBartel]

@@derreckwalls7508 Another way to deal I think is what GMS does for himself and others with his channel: learning more. About the people in religion, about the narratives and stories both written and handed down orally, about all of it. By learning more and openly and honestly Shari g what we learn we may not be able to undo the hurt but we can heal it in ourselves and others and spread true enlightenment into the future. It’s definitely more difficult (and yes admittedly sometimes scary and even dangerous) to learn and share than to ruminate and suffer, but I think it is so much more rewarding in so many tangible, measurable ways.

[@IheartDogs55]

I thought I had been lied to. But I wasn't. My parents were true believers. Getting past the anger and also dealing with the very real trauma is a delicate dance. I'm still dancing after six years of becoming an atheist.

[@derreckwalls7508]

@@SDBartel When I was having doubts in college I studied the Bible and it did help a heap to understand it in its "proper" scholastic context. It wasn't until I took Comparative Religion that my atheism was complete. That holistic view of religion made me appreciate the various aspects, good and bad, of religion. I now have a Hindu neighbor who invited me to a gathering for the Festival of Lights, and I had a grand time. I would never have gone (probably would never have been invited) when I was a Christian.

[@ethan_lord]

The inescapable narratives can be extremely frustrating. “I knew we shouldn’t have let him listen to that music, the devil found a way to deceive him” lol. I can also relate to going a bit too far into thinking everyone would be better off not being religious after leaving the faith. Great video, very relatable, refreshing to hear it talked about.

[@AndrewH1994]

Your comment about music corrupting religious youth is funny because of how many times i’ve seen it by people who are completely serious. Then I heard a song called Hellbringer by In Hearts Wake which makes fun of it, and music video for it is pretty funny. Now I enjoy it because I enjoy the genre of music, but even if someone were to read the lyrics alone, they would be able to tell that the song is a shot at the notion that certain types of music corrupt the christian youth

[@ethan_lord]

@@AndrewH1994 I’ll check out that music video. I listen ironically to “Satan is Real” by The Louvin Brothers. It brings me peace to listen to what I’ve left behind in its most cartoonish although sincere from via a warning from 1959. I also love “The Devils Child”, “Highway to Hell”, “Hell’s Bells”, “Lake of Fire” all songs that used to be terrifying when I believed in what I was told was a real place called hell. I sleep way better these days.

[@mikeygarcia8271]

If you want a single proof that can prove that God exists..look no further - His people, the Jews. They still exist when all their enemies, great warriors of ancient civilizations, no longer exist. The Roman empire, the Greeks, Egypt, the Philistines... where are they now? Powerful armies have come and gone but the Jews remain no matter how many times they were besieged by enemies who want to annihilate them. But the Jews still exist and their military might is in full display for the world to see. The God of Israel never abandons His people for He promised to preserve them until the end of days.

[@annabetsy5406]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/d3uZnIejiNmJerc

[@MatthewChenault]

Go to family funerals more often and you might realize the foolishness of Atheism.

[@todds.6028]

I've been depressed and filled with anxiety pretty much since 3rd grade. I credit my southern baptist upbringing/indoctrination as being the main culprit. Now at 42, and after years of therapy and "deconstruction", I'm officially OFF any and all psychiatric meds altogether and, ironically, feel LEGITIMATELY "born again" and like a "new creation". I haven't felt this good in my entire life.

[@kremekaramel2734]

Thanks for the this video! I’m an Ex Muslim Atheist of 9 months and I was 32 years old when I left the faith. I expected to leave it all behind me immediately but you’re right it doesn’t work like that 😊 it’s a process…

[@Cynthianwings]

idk if you're ever gonna read this or not, but I recently became an atheist, and your channel is really helping me stay afloat in the culture I'm stuck in right now, and I really appreciate what you're doing. My upbringing is similar to yours and it's nice knowing that I'm not alone. Thanks for being brave

[@Benjaminhill4408]

Jesus is here for you! His love will always be here!

[@hayosh9309]

@@Benjaminhill4408 Ah yes legend is always there just as the force is always with us

[@sailcvl3976]

There are many people out there who empathize. Stay strong and remember that your happiness is important. Those who do not support you are dealing with their own demons. I can also say from experience that it does get easier as you grow used to it, however difficult it may be. All the best

[@UnidudeNine]

Yeah like I'm the only one in my family who actively cares to study these things. Their misunderstandings go well beyond this topic into being technologically and scientifically uninterested. They graduated high-school/college and apparently learning new things all together. There's no point for me to teach them anything I know unless it's extremely obvious.

[@Ana_Ng]

@@Cynthianwings why did this reply make me laugh so hard

[@1234smileface]

Thank you so much for this video. I've left religion. As a homosexual, I am finally free of persecution and shame. I'm free and can be myself without judgement.

[@spaceghost8995]

I am the same as you. Guilt over just having sex (or just thinking of having it) really really sucks! I left all those stupid beliefs behind years ago!

[@ClashColors_]

Same. I’m gay and I felt so ashamed. Then I started researching it, and turns out you really are born gay. After that, I started looking more and more at what was wrong with Christianity, the more I wanted to be free from it. And I don’t know if I really believe in god anymore tbh. I have been leaving slowly, and I feel so free now

[@plus6749]

@@ClashColors_ You just described exactly what I've been through as well. I'm happy you were able to find that acceptance as well. I'm still not sure either if I believe there is a God or not, but it's not as relevant anymore. Now believing in the goodness of mankind, despite our many flaws, instead of needing God cause mankind is inherently sinful is really freeing.

[@eatinsomtin9984]

And that is the reason why the wests only culture now is degeneracy and homosexuality

[@cth0nic668]

Homoromantic asexual here, knew a number of gay kids when I was a kid, didn't know I was ace back then though. It was horrible to see how families treated them, religious or not, but it seemed to be religious families the most. It's hard not to feel defeated after this many years of seeing people hurt like this. But every time i see a post of someone with such struggles having gained some freedom, it gives me a little hope that things really can change, and people can become more in tune with whoever/whatever they are. Thanks for sharing.

[@SawtoothWaves]

this is so important, i've gone through a similar journey these past 5 years. thanks for sharing drew

[@topside1246]

Hey! Never expected to find you here!

[@okhuibutala1640]

Deligenly seeking but 🥵

[@crystalgiddens7276]

Vegans are against eating bugs?

[@mimitogami]

Woah, hey there! Didn’t expect to see you here!

[@nothingunderthemask]

Did not expect to see brony matpat here! Nice to see ya!

[@Strahbaerie]

Having been a Christian and experiencing multiple abusive relationships, I can comfortably say they felt the same when I finally left them all. Thanks for this video.

[@annabetsy5406]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/d3uZnIejiNmJerc

[@finnilyenough]

I'm dealing with narratives being told about me too. My parents found out I'm no longer a Christian shortly after I came out as trans and so it's really easy to know what the story about me is. "I just don't want to be held accountable for my sinful lifestyle." It's really frustrating because I'm still trying to have a relationship with them

[@chelsgo8675]

Omg so much this.

[@cheryldeboissiere7824]

Don’t bother...

[@deanhall9292]

Sadly.....the whole Gay Liberation, Transubstanation,Transformation,Transvestite,Transgender Agender....= CHRIST. and its christinsanity!!......original gay mardis gras?....old easter , in old rome,was 200BC Greek Constantinople @HILARIA.......and Jesus, was invented, to replace Attis. We Have All Been DECEIVED.......@Inclusive Church ( a Jesuit movement, like their LieTurdical Bowell Mvmnts!!)

[@TheCowboy4000]

They gotta guilt trip you so you stay brainwashed and don't think or make decisions for yourself. My mom's the same way because I don't wanna be religious anymore and be in the LDS church. I'm not trans or anything but I can relate to you. I say if she can't accept you for who you are then that's her problem and loss. Tell her to go read a fucking science book instead of fairytales about ole zombie man Jesus. 🤣🙄

[@trish8399]

That's precisely what irritates me about some humans - why are they so judgemental? I mean, I understand being frightened at the thought of their baby possibly going to hell, because that's a terrifying thought (like thinking about your child being kidnapped or murdered) but they need to remember that you are you, you are NOT them, and their relationship with you shouldn't be any different than it was, simply because you've come out as trans. Your life is YOURS, not theirs. I suppose, in a way, your life was theirs while you were growing up, but even then, you were still you, and still an entirely separate person from them. It's like the people who live out their dreams through their children, but the child doesn't share the same passion yet are forced into the activity anyway, and then the parents get upset when the child says, "You know, I'm not as interested in this as you are." I love God but I have never and will never force my child to - he can if he wants to, and if not, that's his choice. Anyway, I hope your parents will come back to only loving you. If they're shunning you or are cold towards you, maybe remind them that Jesus would never behave that way towards anyone. Then again, I don't know what they believe, so that might not help at all. I hope they aren't shunning you and I hope that they heal your relationship together and just love you for you.💕

[@davidwood8730]

Whether you call it deconversion or deconstruction, it is a difficult and ongoing process. I went to parochial school as a child. Even though I left Roman Catholicism more than 50 years ago, I realize that much of my psyche is still imprinted with some of those beliefs. Your videos have always been thoughtful and provocative without being nasty or insulting. Keep up the good work. It seems that we tend to value "right thinking" over "right acting." And of course "right thinking" always mean thinking like me.

[@TisButAScratch666]

Was going to make an almost identical comment but you said it all for me!

[@leekuanjiet8435]

Your username lol. You know ActsApologetics17?

[@TylerHeitkamp]

This might be one of my favorite videos of yours. I relate so closely. Your story is so much like mine. I'm glad I found your channel. I started deconstructing about 6 or 7 years ago.

[@FuriouslySleepingIde]

Same here, although not 50 years yet. For me the pattern is "Those who disagree with me are being willfully wrong." We're told so often as Christians/Catholics that if someone has heard and understands our beliefs, they can no longer honestly disagree. For some time I kept thinking this about my new secular beliefs (including some beliefs I now think are wrong) because Christianity discourages this type of empathy. It is possible for someone to actually have different beliefs than me. Not to be to stupid to understand the truth. Not to refuse to see the truth because they are evil. Not to lie about their beliefs for base motives. To sincerely and intelligently hold different beliefs.

[@timsmith530]

Once you have been exposed to religion you can never fully rid yourself of its bad influence that's why some turn to atheism . The wrong doctrine of Roman Catholics only causes people to still be slaves to sin and they are always under condemnation

[@JavaSucksMan]

I've always been an atheist, but you have helped me deconvert from the "dickhead" sect of atheism. Thanks‼️ (And yes... It's still a struggle😉)

[@Frups12345678]

What sect is that?

[@jimhillman9121]

@@Frups12345678 From my experience I would have to say antitheism. Every antitheist that I've met went out of their way to let me know that not being an atheist is illogical and irrational and any evidence that you give in defense is just trash. These people also informed me that I was a threat to civilization....etc. In many ways they remind me of fundamentalism

[@Frups12345678]

​@@jimhillman9121 I have no idea where you live or where you grew up, but I have never experienced one single Atheist discussing their position with me in person and trying to convince me of anything. I am saying this being +50, having lived and worked on three continents and working in a field where there is overproportion of Atheists. What I have experienced, when living in the US, is JW storm ringing me out of bed 8 in the morning on a Saturday to have a "discussion", religious extremists (probably Baptists) screaming through a bullhorn in the park or outside a supermarket that people who don't share their interpretation of the Bible deserve to be tortured forever and one of the first questions I got in the US was what church I am going to and when I said I don't, they never spoke to me again.

[@jimhillman9121]

@@Frups12345678 In my time I have encountered religious extremists too and I do my best to avoid them. I have also encountered atheist that were just as bad.

[@Frups12345678]

@@jimhillman9121 I asked you where you are from, as I have never personally encountered Atheists that are extremists. I am certain that there will be some videos on YT etc., but in real life I have never seen any. It is somehow natural, as there is little for Atheists to preach about.

[@gabrielbruce1977]

My family was forced into Catholicism, and I'm the first to try and break away back to the animistic beliefs our ancestors had. It's been a terrible, wonderful, exhausting ride. You're doing great, even though it's hard it's worth it!!

[@petepayette6690]

Your working hard to be a animal / a common god hating sinner? No thats built in.... Its called a sin nature

[@ghostwhite1648]

Your brain is a computer. Not an animal. You have a designer.

[@emilywyatt9340]

Animism means that the earth and all things have a spirit. All is interconnected. Nothing to do with animals although humans are evolved primates. ​@@ghostwhite1648

[@damon22441]

​@@ghostwhite1648 A blind one that could not be called an independent entity.

[@OceanKeltoi]

Well put, my friend. Massive support for you on your journey in deconstructing and discovering yourself. And I very much appreciate the shoutout to Pagan and progressive Christian allies. There's a lot of work we can do together if we recognize mutual goals and the strengths we can contribute to one another. But an important starting place is mutual respect. This means not looking at each other as mission fields for proselytizing.

[@gregDino32]

Agreed 👍, even when I was Christian , my beliefs politically didn't really fit into the mold at the evangelical church I used to go to because I was more liberal ( I was a Ron Paul supporter for awhile as well) . I didn't believe in legislating morality , I was strongly a anti interventionist , which unfortunately many Christian evangelicals aren't .

[@gregDino32]

I am pretty much leaning towards agnosticism today.

[@gregDino32]

I also didn't like the way many evangelicals would speak to gays about coming to Christ , most of them have no awareness about the shit they go thru , I have gay friends and when I was Christian didn't judge them but ultimately I'm glad I'm not apart of Christianity anymore because I couldn't reconcile with the fact that in that religion it's a sin .

[@ohiostate129078]

@@gregDino32 lol no shit they have zero awareness. Something you've stayed away from most of your life and then trying to persuade a gay or trans that God loves you. Yeah it's going to be awkward.

[@dirtydish6642]

I remember as a young teen having my friend stay the night and then join us for church the next morning (Roman Catholic [sit, kneel, stand, group chants, etc. repeat). He was freaked out and said that was very weird and if I recall he even made a cult reference. I was dumbfounded at the time by his description of the experience. It would take another decade or so but I eventually understood exactly what he then meant.

[@pineapplepenumbra]

Yep, the size of an organisation doesn't stop it being a cult.

[@angelamaryquitecontrary4609]

Not to mention the ritualistic re-enactment of a human sacrifice! As a good little Catholic seven year old, I used to get so upset at this part of the mass- every Thursday, at school, as well as all the services in church- that I used to faint most weeks. The nuns' solution? Seat me at the end of the row, so I could be dragged out more easily.

[@yurisei6732]

Even though I regularly did things like scouting events in churches, and visited cathedrals on holiday, it took me until I was a teenager to even figure out what "Christianity" was. I was vaguely aware my friend's mother was a Christian before then, but it never struck me to think about what that meant other than "a bit weird". I think I must have thought that almost no one actually believed in a god, they just sometimes went to that building next to the town hall for community events cos it was a convenient building to do it in.

[@Neo_Geisha]

@@angelamaryquitecontrary4609 It's kind of insane to think that something as barbaric as human sacrifice has been normalized by this one religion.

[@Lerian_V]

@@Neo_Geisha Hahaha. Since the first 3 centuries under the Roman empire, Christians (at the time every Christian was Catholic) were accused of being barbaric. That was before Christianity had any legitimacy under the empire. Suffice it to say that the whole of the Western world was Catholic for over 1000 years. Copernicus, Galileo, Nicolas Steno, Gregor Mendel, George Lemaitre, etc etc all participated in this "barbaric" meal. NIH Director, Francis Collins of the Human Genome Project fame converted to Catholicism and currently participates in this sacrifice. Christopher Hitchens referred to Francis Collins as "one of the greatest living Americans" and stated that Collins was one of the most devout believers he had ever met.

[@mondotwistedmojo]

"Social technology", that's a really good term. I'm learning now how narratives can be bound up into a kind of watertight system that functions to protect people from every possible thought they could have about something. Not just in religion but also in politics and conspiracy theories.

[@cipherklosenuf9242]

Well said. Clearly we are capable of believing literally anything. As long as it supports being “right” and doing “what needs to be done”. Gotta go read my horoscope now! 😜Cheers!!

[@schoo9256]

The kicker is that we all have those individually anyway. We have to create our own narratives to explain the world or we'd go mad, and society itself couldn't exist.

[@mikeygarcia8271]

If you want a single proof that can prove that God exists..look no further - His people, the Jews. They still exist when all their enemies, great warriors of ancient civilizations, no longer exist. The Roman empire, the Greeks, Egypt, the Philistines... where are they now? Powerful armies have come and gone but the Jews remain no matter how many times they were besieged by enemies who want to annihilate them. But the Jews still exist and their military might is in full display for the world to see. The God of Israel never abandons His people for He promised to preserve them until the end of days.

[@DreamingCatStudio]

You’re demonstrating beautifully an open mind, willing to explore, and accept all the good and useful in various world views, as well as humbleness about your own earlier judgmental attitudes. Thank you for articulating these complex ideas so clearly.

[@ryanheister6802]

As an ex-Christian, I still find myself influenced by many biblical ideas such as loving someone unconditionally and "turning the other cheek." I don't mind this though as my own personal moral code allows me to pick and choose what I find to be good, including principles from the Bible.

[@timsmith530]

Following a code of morals and being a good person doesn't save you from sin. That's called living by rules. Although they are good they don't justify you . Only Jesus can justify our sins not of good works because we are not to boast

[@ThePsycoDolphin]

Good people will become good people regardless of whether 10 commandments tell them so or not. In fact, on the contrary, probably they will be able to follow them more so than a believer, as they be following them through instinct, and not through habit, because they think they are right, not that they think they will go to heaven.

[@timsmith530]

@@jamesoneil1388 Who said? An atheist? Hahahaha! I'm choking 🤣

[@timsmith530]

@@ThePsycoDolphin Didn't you read my comment? You make no sense

[@timsmith530]

@@jamesoneil1388 He died and rose again seated at the right hand of God ! Next

[@mh4zd]

Drew, I can see that the family/Christian friends issue is still heavy for you. This is perhaps the longest lasting deconversion issue (pretty much transcends it really). I hope you get past, as much as possible, the pressure their feelings exert.

[@pineapplepenumbra]

GMS displays a remarkable maturity in dealing with what must be a deeply disturbing, ongoing experience. Personally, I'm not sure how it would affect me, as I've never been particularly family orientated, and most of my family and friends* died when I was relatively young, anyway. I've made no effort to stay in contact with the more toxic of those people, and don't miss them or regret not seeing them in the slightest, so I suspect that had I been raised within a more religious environment, I would have just cut off ties and walked away, unbothered, but I suspect that I'm unusual in not seeing any family members for many years and simply not caring. My father's side of the family are muslim, and I haven't been impressed with their overall behaviour, so haven't communicated with anyone on that side of the family. * A friend of mine said, years ago, that he wasn't sure if it was a good idea being my friend, as they all seem to die. Still, he's still alive and over 70, so all good.

[@eleanor8652]

@Kitty Queer - fae / faer - By this metric, hasn’t Catholicism made a great deal of contributions to science? And Pentecostalism is actually great in terms of gender equality because women are allowed to be ministers. Islam, like Christianity, seems fairly misogynistic with the exception of particular members.

[@pineapplepenumbra]

@Kitty Queer - fae / faer - "islam is actually very progressive and has made incredible contributions to science" Like all religions and cults (and islam, like catholicism IS a cult, and there are 2 ways we can tell) they are fine with Science up until it gets to the stage where it shows their belief systems to be nonsense, then they're completely against it. What was it that muslim "scholar" said a millennia or so ago? That Maths/Science was the work of Shaytan? Trinity College, Cambridge, and one post code in the US have both won more Nobel prizes than the entire muslim world. It is true that the so called "Golden Age" of islam preserved some scientific work, and it would be strange is a large, powerful empire, or collection of powerful hegemonies didn't come up with some original innovations of their own (which they did), but overall, over the last thousand years, islam has not only done little to contribute to Science, it has done the reverse in many places (as has christianity, to be fair). "and social justice." What kind of mug do you take me for? I'm the son of a muslim immigrant. Half my family are muslim. I've read the qur'an (and it felt like descending into a dank sewer, every time I forced myself to open that vile book). I could list a fair few evil acts that resulted from the qur'an; it is NOT the opposite of the bible and, despite being a far smaller book, verse for verse it has 3 times the number of violent verses the bible has. That book has done far more to hold back social progression than any other book apart from the torah and bible, from whence this bastard son was vomited forth. "Don't believe the lies and fear-mongering of the christian Right." I'm going to have to look back and see my post/s, as that is one of the last things any sane person would say to me. "I can definitely say that the quran is a beautiful book with lots of good things." Like the torah and bible, it *insults* any god that _might_ exist, and I found it grossly offensive and outright sickening. One thing that occurred to me while reading it, allah is a gangsta rapper. So, what good things do you think it contains, please can you name 4?

[@pineapplepenumbra]

@Kitty Queer - fae / faer - allah (clop*) promotes violence against those not in his "gang", and glories in that violence, like a gangsta rapper. allah is misogynistic, like a gangsta rapper. allah is boastful, like a gangsta rapper. allah challenges people to bring better verses, like a gangsta rapper. allah is repetitive, like a gangsta rapper. allah makes it clear that he will fuck you up if you dis him, like a gangsta rapper. allah is arrogant, like a gangsta rapper. allah is immature, like a gangsta rapper. allah is illogical, like most gangsta rappers, but maybe not all. allah is ignorant of science, like a gangsta rapper (again, there may be exceptions, I don't know). *Clop, Case Lowered On Purpose

[@ThunderStruck15]

@Kitty Queer - fae / faer - uhhhhh have you taken a gander at the Middle East? Fundamentalism of *any* stripe is toxic, also, it’s shitty as hell to tell someone their personal experiences are less than your experience with a book.

[@theobserver2309]

I was drowned in Catholicism throughout my childhood. I was one of the fortunate few who just didn't get bitten by the god bug. Even as a young child it was just another game for me. I recall looking at my classmates attending the Mass ritual, their heads bowed, eyes closed, hands together in prayer on their knees, and thinking to myself almost in astonishment - what on earth makes them do that! Maybe I was born without the god gene, or maybe I was just a rebel. Anyway, as an adult I have always felt the deepest sympathy for those who struggle with their religious indoctrination, it can be overwhelmingly powerful to break away from.

[@mikeygarcia8271]

catholicism is all about man made rituals that Jesus Himself detested. God wants you to have a close relationship with Him..We are now living in the last days ...to give you one of the many proofs..here is the uncanny resemblance of the U.N statue with the beast described in the Book of revelation? Tell me what you think? kzbin.info/www/bejne/qIXPgZSJnMdreNk

[@annabetsy5406]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/d3uZnIejiNmJerc

[@UN1VERS3S]

Most religions have man made rules. Rules are made to condemn(hence why we have the old testament law). A person condemned needs a savior. Jesus came to save not to condemn. As He said he had come to give us life and have it to the full. As Paul said He called us to be free! However we're not to use our freedom to gratify our sinful flesh. And we're not to exercise our freedom if it cause others to stumble and yes we're free to do everything but not everything is beneficial. Eternal life starts now not after we die(physically). How to be free? Follow Jesus! Trust in His process! Deny your sinful selves then take up your cross. And when His perfect timing comes crucify it and you will no longer walk in the sinful flesh but in the Spirit(9 Biblical fruits of the spirit)! Read the Bible by yourself! Stop thinking that your religion; Catholic, Protestant,Evangelic, Mormon, etc. is the narrow way. No! How many of their members know why Jesus came for? Jesus is the narrow way! He's the way, the truth and the life! But I'm a Catholic and I thank God for that! God bless us all!❤️🕊️

[@TorianTammas]

most of your class mates thought the same but kept their mouth shut about it. It was all just theater

[@Baa975]

@@UN1VERS3S I'm pretty sure they're not here for a lecture

[@deneshiahonadel6387]

“Damned if I do, damned if I don’t” PRECISELY! I like how you touched on Christian narratives not making logical sense because they aren’t grounded in reality. It is frustrating and exhausting and I end up feeling sad for those still stuck in the indoctrination

[@staticinteger]

Assuming you have had a psychedelic experience by the way you talked. It was a huge moment for me in my life as well. Same with trying cannabis and seeing how it affected my music appreciation, etc. from psychedelics, I have been able to experience incredibly useful insights into my life and they have helped me tremendously in working through emotional / mental roadblocks and also have greatly improved my appreciation for the world and the people around me. Such a special experience that I, too, wish I could share with my religious parents and friends.

[@GeneticallyModifiedSkeptic]

This ❤️❤️❤️

[@sebidotorg]

Taking psychedelics with an experienced trip sitter should be part of (voluntary) coming-of-age ceremonies. There is nothing that has helped me get over certain mental roadblocks and gain insights into what is really important in my life quite as much as LSD, although I really don’t want to diminish the fantastic effects of taking MDMA with a group of friends, or in a therapeutic setting.

[@IheartDogs55]

@@sebidotorg I didn't have a sitter. My experience was a scary one.

[@kai_plays_khomus]

@@IheartDogs55 You should never take psychedelics alone, without a trip sitter. That's psychedelics 101!

[@sebidotorg]

@@IheartDogs55 I’m very sorry you had a negative experience. You should never take psychedelics without an experienced person as a guide, unless you already have personal experience from multiple trips, including with the scarier parts of a trip, and know how to handle these I. This is why I think we need to make Psilocybin, LSD, and other substances a part of our culture, embed the first experience(s) someone has into a ritual framework. Since set and setting are important, a person should learn about the substances first, think about what they expect from a trip, and learn about different ways to influence the direction their trip takes. Different types of music, even just switching to the next song, can greatly change the sense of well-being, or switching off any music, if it is too much at that moment. There should be trip toys available, like soap bubbles, physics toys, prisms, maybe colours for people to express themselves-body paint that glows in black light can be great fun, and there should be tea, juice, water, some light snacks available. Knowing that there are experienced persons, who only take a small or no dose, and who are able to talk you down when your mind gets stuck in a loop, or accompany you if you’d like to venture out into nature, or know when to just get you back inside, hand you a blanket and some warm tea, frees your mind from having to keep you safe while it’s already engaged otherwise. Not having to fear an encounter with law enforcement, or just with people outside of the group, who might not understand what these crazy persons are doing, can be an important factor, too. A cabin in a clearing somewhere, or huts on a camping ground in the Netherlands, both seem to provide a good setting for a group of friends. Combine that with the preparation and at least two trip sitters, who can split between an indoor and an outdoor group of explorers at any time, and you have optimised the chances for a good experience.

[@isaiahd781]

Thank you for calling out a certain “experience“ call in show. Although much of the basis of my atheism was formed on that particular show, I can no longer handle the narcissistic abusive behavior toward callers. That’s why I gravitate toward your show because it is well reasoned and has a lot of human empathy. Thank you for being a voice that has helped me through my own journey.

[@mikeygarcia8271]

If you want a single proof that can prove that God exists..look no further - His people, the Jews. They still exist when all their enemies, great warriors of ancient civilizations, no longer exist. The Roman empire, the Greeks, Egypt, the Philistines... where are they now? Powerful armies have come and gone but the Jews remain no matter how many times they were besieged by enemies who want to annihilate them. But the Jews still exist and their military might is in full display for the world to see. The God of Israel never abandons His people for He promised to preserve them until the end of days.

[@sailcvl3976]

@@mikeygarcia8271 as do the Palestinians

[@JayBandersnatch]

I can relate to your experience about the experience. I still listen to it from time to time, yet the mood has definitely negatively changed since certain hosts no longer are on the show. It's kind of a shame because the main host has a really insightful personal channel and is really good at one-on-one debates, yet I feel that their demeanor on the show can be off-putting for most theists and is unfortunately another example of the "angry atheist".

[@cratonorogen9208]

@@mikeygarcia8271 hindus exist today who have older civilisation than judaism and older holy books than the torah or the bible, after many wars and conquests by christians, muslims and many others. By your logic you should be a hindu.

[@mikeygarcia8271]

@@cratonorogen9208 The Hindu were never scattered in the four corners of the earth unlike the Jews were, and they were never a minority nor were they heavily presecuted while on exile, nor where they subjected to many annhilation attempts of kings, quees, powerful religious and political leaders for thousands of years, nor where they expelled from their land after having many of them massacred. ...The people in the middle east had the oldest civilizations, not hindus, God made Adam and Eve, then came the people of the Middle east. It was only in Noah's time that God came into the scene again, and after which, only in Abraham's time. It was written that God was silent for a time...but it doesn't mean He was not in existence when the hindu religion started thriving in India. He existed even before the existence of our galaxy.

[@JazzyFizzleDrummers]

I was raised without religion and a lot of these things you're deconstructing are things our majority Christian society have instilled in me. I've had to deconstruct a lot too without ever attending a Sunday service. It's never easy but good on you for putting in the work. It's worth it imo

[@cipherklosenuf9242]

Cool name Jazzy. How remarkable you were so influenced too!

[@georgenorris2657]

What kind of things have you had to deconstruct?

[@mikeygarcia8271]

If you want a single proof that can prove that God exists..look no further - His people, the Jews. They still exist when all their enemies, great warriors of ancient civilizations, no longer exist. The Roman empire, the Greeks, Egypt, the Philistines... where are they now? Powerful armies have come and gone but the Jews remain no matter how many times they were besieged by enemies who want to annihilate them. The Jews still exist and their military might is in full display for the world to see. The God of Israel never abandons His people for He promised to preserve them until the end of days.

[@cipherklosenuf9242]

@@mikeygarcia8271 Thought provoking and clearly stated. Some would suggest god’s existence is self evident in nature or written in our hearts or known through the mystery of love and service to others. You’re suggesting that the one best proof is found in a long history of defeat, and displacement, and a relatively recent history of military investments in geopolitical power games. As you know, Hindu scriptures, ethnicity and cultural practices have endured longer than Judaism, they too have seen the rise and fall of Empires and they have a military. I agree that the history of the Jewish people is amazing. We see among Jewish individuals a tremendous diversity of beliefs, including atheist secular humanitarianism. I am especially found of Einstein’s comments on god and his contributions to a deeper understanding of physics. So, I’ll argue that the one best reason to reject supernaturalism is the stuff Einstein said (most of which I admittedly don’t really get). What are your thoughts?

[@cipherklosenuf9242]

P.S. Please feel free to start your rebuttal with,”Ok Einstein…”🧐

[@artstsym]

As a former Christian who left on pretty good terms with my church (I just realized after years that I'd never had what anyone had claimed I should via worship), I think asceticism was the point I was most strictly conditioned on, and not having a frame of reference for how to approach pleasurable experiences caused more harm to both me and my relationships with others than anything else. It's one of the most insidious traps because learning self-control IS important, but it's hard to build robust strategies for life when the only tactic you're taught is total abstinence (sexual or otherwise).

[@victotronics]

You're so right about that fear factor. One Christian who got me doubting my atheism did so by preying on my fear. The after effects didn't last long though.

[@ckinggaming5bucketmadness766]

Wow, I hope they were preying on fear accidentally/innocently, or just doing it with good intent and emotion, and aren’t just a bad person, it’s possibly innocent, in my eyes, Christianity seems to tend to be, when someone is Christian, they are, if going by my parents, they think they are good people, they believe they are doing good, they are ignorant to the truths about there religion, they are good people, doing bad things.

[@victotronics]

@@ckinggaming5bucketmadness766 I rather suspect they were trained in doing so. They were way too good at it. And that's leaving a sour taste about Christianity with me: they can justify doing all sorts of bad things because it's all for (their notion of) good.

[@hermitcard4494]

FEAR DONALD TRUMP! FEAR TRUMPERS! FEAR THE WHITE SUPREMACISTS! FEAR THE ALT RIGHT WING! FEAR THE RACISM! FEAR THE CCP FLU THING! FEAR THE NON MASKED! FEAR THE ANTIVAXXERS! FEAR THE CONSPIRACIONISTS! FEAR THE EVIDENCE! FEAR KYLE RITTENHOUSE! FEAR THE FACTS! And turn to us for hope, IF you obey us and give us your freedom. It's all for your own good :)

[@hermitcard4494]

@@victotronics yes, they are consciously or unconsciously trained or taught to use fear. You can't sell hope without fear, and with hope, comes obedience. Then your fear becomes losing the hope they sold you(the person itself forms the loop), so you obey even more and disregard self awareness, critical thinking and give in to cognitive dissonance to reject logic, sense, moral and facts(even verses in bible).

[@dawsonindustries]

@@ckinggaming5bucketmadness766 no we're not Christians because we're good. No we're Christ followers because we're broken and terrible sinful people that need a savior. And God sent one. His one and only begotten Son. God came to take the penalty we all deserve, upon Himself. And paid it in full for us. That's why He said on the cross at the end, "It is finished." The debt had once and for all been paid.

[@kirke420]

Having never been a christian (I was raised Christian, but by 8 I didn't believe), I see a huge difference between "never-believers" and "deconverts." Being a "never-believer" in no way makes me perfect or even better than anyone else, but it does allow me to perceive "deconverts" from an outside perspective. I find that "deconverts" hold on to many characteristics of believers. In some it is their "religious" belief in aliens or conspiracy theories or political/social views. It's good to see you recognize that trend in yourself. You seem to be what we should all strive to be: skeptics. Take care.

[@nerdyninjatemptress]

Never believers is a good way of describing it. I was very luckily raised without religion on purpose so now that my father has jumped into the deep end of religion, I find myself handicapped upon relating to or understanding him anymore because he and my mom explicitly raised me without faith and he is more faithful than ever.

[@cheryldeboissiere7824]

Never believer was my status for decades, now I’m agnostic.

[@trish8399]

I grew up the opposite lol Homeschooled in the country by atheists. I knew God though but was born with a highly analytical brain (autism) and a deep thirst for knowledge, so am actually very skeptical about every subject (meaning I research and re-resesrch as new information becomes available, and always search deeper than surface level answers). I'm sharing that to say that skepticism doesn't necessarily mean zero belief in God, but rather a constant questioning. The word itself means doubt or questioning both, so on one hand, it COULD mean zero belief in God, but I'm just saying that they aren't necessarily separate, skepticism and God. These are my thoughts, so please don't take this to be like I'm forcing something down your throat because that's not what I'm doing at all. If it comes across that way, though, please enlighten me as to how so that I can learn to word my thoughts better. I would appreciate that. 🙂

[@sindhusekar1]

This was a great video. Tracing your journey of atheism with objectivity and sharing your insights with others is bound to help others and validate them in their journey.

[@cipherklosenuf9242]

Well said!

[@raquelfredette6800]

As an apostate finishing up my schooling at a fundamentalist christian college, thank you so much. You have no idea how impactful your videos are to me and others like me.

[@Luinta]

What you said at the beginning, about how you're realizing recently how much of an effect your upbringing has had on you... IT was one of your recent videos that really hit me hard and got me to realize how much of my lingering truama still comes from my religious upbringing, even though I left the church almost 15 years ago now. The video you did about how church sermons are prepared and progressed specifically to trigger emotional reaponces... it, along with some of hte Belief it or Not videos got me really looking at how much the church did to manipulate me and how much of my self worth issues, my conditioned responces to others, and my inability to value myself have really been forged by the church and reinforced by the family and comunity that wanted to "support" me (so long as I towed the right line). Thank you for making these videos. IT really does make a difference.

[@Psalms-fr8yy]

Jesus loves you!

[@cipherklosenuf9242]

Dear Psalm 118.. Ye who pray on bended knees, lift your eyes unto the trees. Ask, “What scriptures’ sacred words ring more inspired than the songs of birds?”Please prayerfully consider another mission. Perhaps there’s struggling Theists, on another channel, that really need the comfort you’re offering. You may be doing harm unintentionally here. Love and peace.

[@cipherklosenuf9242]

Dear Lilith, well said, I can relate. It sounds like you’re learning a lot. Is there another you tube channel or author that you have found enlightening? Cheers!

[@JimJamTheAdmin]

@@cipherklosenuf9242 asking nicely never stopped missionaries from trying to ruin entire continents, why would it stop the loneliest person in the world from spamming unrelated scripture in an effort to appear pious?

[@foppishdilletaunt9911]

I was raised in secular Jewish disbelief but I’ve had a lifelong interest for religions old and new. I can only guess at what fortitude, strength, bravery and agency it takes for people to unshackle themselves from the inimical and dangerous theology that they were indoctrinated into and believed earnestly and profoundly. GMS Is an especially thoughtful and principled example of someone who has thrown of the chains of these evil, patriarchal, misogynistic, racist & homophobic relics of ancient superstition. Great credit to any and all who have achieved this Herculean undertaking, no matter what your personal style and form of expression is. Good for you !

[@wulfsorenson8859]

Judaism is an ethnicity not a religion. One can be an atheist and still be Jewish.

[@hypergraphic]

I've always been jealous of how many Jewish communities can accommodate nonbelievers because being Jewish isn't only a matter of faith, but familial identity. Ok, probably not ultra-orthodox communities. The closest I've come to that is in very liberal churches.

[@beitgorski7296]

Thank you for this important message. It can feel so vulnerable and lonely in the journey of recovering from harmful religious programming. As a trauma therapist who helps many in recovering from cult experiences, these precious and vital conversations are so helpful to give folks a road map and sense of community in that process. Well done, lovely human 🥰

[@joeygeorge2220]

welcome to the journey. I'm ten years out from evangenical Christianity and the stuff that continues to come out is relentless. being lied to for so long goes deep. the most devoted followers are the most likely to walk away. we are the ones spending the most time thinking about it and we care and ask a lot of questions.

[@Ninja-Ninja1]

The most devoted followers or more likely to walk away? Im devoted, and still believe just fine! Tell me what exactly are we being lied to about?

[@Ninja-Ninja1]

Just asking in general

[@emileegrant3883]

i value your content so much. you helped me a lot a couple years ago.

[@foryou7673]

I love this guy too Even tho I have never been religious.

[@conversion721]

Videos like this helped me. Now I have channel to help others

[@wfemp_4730]

Embracing the darkness now? :P

[@foryou7673]

@@wfemp_4730 Your point?

[@wfemp_4730]

@@foryou7673 Until she says otherwise, I'll assume Emilee got it. Thanks.

[@christopherwalcott1909]

I am 3 years out of Mormonism after being in the church from birth till 35. It was a 15 year process. My family still doesn't understand me. I have found love, tolerance, understanding and better people outside of intense religion. Keep working at it. Change takes time.

[@poedameron8057]

Good video. It is nice to see someone so considerate talking about this, when many are not as careful.

[@mikeygarcia8271]

We are now living in the last days ...to give you one of the many proofs..here is the uncanny resemblance of the U.N statue with the beast described in the Book of revelation? Tell me what you think? kzbin.info/www/bejne/qIXPgZSJnMdreNk

[@mikeygarcia8271]

If you want a single proof that can prove that God exists..look no further - His people, the Jews. They still exist when all their enemies, great warriors of ancient civilizations, no longer exist. The Roman empire, the Greeks, Egypt, the Philistines... where are they now? Powerful armies have come and gone but the Jews remain no matter how many times they were besieged by enemies who want to annihilate them. But the Jews still exist and their military might is in full display for the world to see. The God of Israel never abandons His people for He promised to preserve them until the end of days.

[@DavidJamesHenry]

I need to watch this video again and again, it's like medication for my mind and helps me feel less anxious about my deconstruction

[@muliefriend4785]

You are here to learn, as you have. The world can be frightening, evangelist churches hold people in fear. Only love and accepting each other can set us free.

[@leekuanjiet8435]

Thanks so much for bringing up love. So many atheists come to the conclusion that they don't need religion, but also don't need anything else. We don't need religion, but we still need each other, and love, and knowledge and empathy, and others. Leaving religion is only step one. There's so much more to learn.

[@jarensauer1898]

I have been binging your channel, along with numerous others you collaborate with, though you were the first. I think that was important on my deconstruction journey because I find I relate to your story the most. Literally in ever single way aside from me attending a secular school instead of an evangelical one. Though I did tour one. I just couldn’t bring myself to agree to spending $30K per year to chase a psychology degree that would be manipulated by Christian beliefs (even as a a Christian at the time) when I could spend $10K per year at a secular school, one which a few of my high school friends who attended the same churches I attended growing up were enrolling at. Your channel is well thought out, honest, educational, and fair. I’m can’t thank you enough for that. I look forward to finishing previous videos and diving into new ones as they release! I’m staying skeptical!

[@thefisherking78]

I went to a small, insular, Christian university, with compulsory chapel attendance, and I still completely lost my faith while I was there. The process was not at all deliberate or rational, and I suffered for years as a result. Only after the fact did I even begin to address the questions of what I actually believed and why. And it was a few more years before I actually felt good about any of this. Hell, I barely do now. But your thoughts here are helping!

[@mikeygarcia8271]

If you want a single proof that can prove that God exists..look no further - His people, the Jews. They still exist when all their enemies, great warriors of ancient civilizations, no longer exist. The Roman empire, the Greeks, Egypt, the Philistines... where are they now? Powerful armies have come and gone but the Jews remain no matter how many times they were besieged by enemies who want to annihilate them. But the Jews still exist and their military might is in full display for the world to see. The God of Israel never abandons His people for He promised to preserve them until the end of days.

[@DanielECulbertson]

@@mikeygarcia8271 You don't seem to have a full grasp of the word "proof". Nothing in your comment constitutes any kind of proof whatsoever.

[@mikeygarcia8271]

@@DanielECulbertson Even if I could not produce a "proof" that measures up to your expectations, you must be broad-minded enough to give someone else's truth the benefit of the doubt. Not everything you see is real and not everything that is unseen is not real. Never make an assumption about something you are not 100% sure about. Atheists are often quoted as saying-- that we should question evrything. That is true..and so should you. You should question as well your own beliefs. Especially if your one and only soul is what is at stake.

[@DanielECulbertson]

@@mikeygarcia8271 I actually agree with your statement that not everything seen is true and not everything unsceen is not real. I'm also not usually in the habit of insisting to people of faith that their entire belief system is false. I prefer a more "live and let live" approach, to be honest. But as a gay man, the number of times I have had someone else's Christian beliefs weaponized against me to try to make me feel bad, wrong, or sinful is far too many to count at my age. And though you certainly did nothing of the kind here, I can't help but bristle when someone insists that they can "prove" their Christian beliefs, because...it's just not possible. I don't mean to be unpleasant or argumentative here, I really don't. But I wish both Theists and Non-Theists could get along without one or the other needing the other to know how "wrong" they are. After decades of the way so-called Christians have treated me (and gay people in general) I will *never* believe in a God who allowed his followers to act so hatefully in His name. To me, a god like that either does not exist, or does not deserve my worship. You obviously feel differently, and that's fine, too. I truly hope that organized religious beliefs brought happiness to you. They brought only pain and misery to me, until I decided I would no longer give them power over me. It was the best decision I ever made. Peace. ❤

[@mikeygarcia8271]

@@DanielECulbertson Brother, I am as much of a sinner as you, as I also have my own struggles with my own sinful nature which I need to wrestle with every single day. I stumble every now and then, just like everyone else. But there is peace in trying again and again to live life according to God's will. And I love you too much to lie to you. I love you too much that I care about your soul. It's love that reign, and not condemnation when brothers point out and correct each other's mistakes in their aim to lead each other to the path that leads to life, not to the path of destruction. Let us help each other and pray for each other that we may finish this race with God on our side. God will be more than willing to help us both if we only humble ourselves and seek His help to shine light into our darkness. Having a sexual relationship with someone of the same gender is a sin and can lead you to destruction, in as much as my own sins can lead me to the fiery pits of hell should I not cling to God. God loves you, brother. Cling to Jesus and you will experience that "peace that surpasses beyond human understanding." The kind of peace that the world cannot give us. Cling to Jesus..He is our only way out of this darkness. He died and suffered an agonizing death on the cross that we may live. May God keep you in the palm of His hands.

[@Claire.sterling]

I just want to say how much this means to me… As my entire life was built around Christianity and the harmful infrastructure, I honestly can relate on an extreme level to so many of your videos. But this one the most. As I have recently disowned the culture and walked away from the faith it has been extremely hard to build my true self up. So many walls and barriers the religious structure has built in my life and psyche, one of the biggest ones I struggle with my creativity. I used to be so creative as a writer but the older I got the harder it became due to so many external judgments and comments as to whom I was and was supposed to be as a person and serving and worshiping God that I often internally reflected my creative potential off of my ability or lack of to worship God. Making Him my center piece. And in recent years trying to tear down these barriers has been so hard. To create based on whether I’m pleasing God and worshiping Him, but rather building something of my own. That is artistic and true to what I want it to be. In other words, thank you for sharing this. It makes feel like I’m not alone. That I’m not the only one that feels like there is massive habits tucked deep into my subconscious that really overrides decisions and my ability to stay true to myself. Cheers to you my friend and here is to everyone trying to find and build the one true self they not only deserve, but that everyone else should see.

[@mikeygarcia8271]

We are now living in the last days ...to give you one of the many proofs..here is the uncanny resemblance of the U.N statue with the beast described in the Book of revelation? Tell me what you think? kzbin.info/www/bejne/qIXPgZSJnMdreNk

[@emilyallen5447]

Drew, thank you for sharing this. As a fellow exvangelical I find that navigating familial relationships during the holiday season is really difficult, especially after these particularly divisive couple of years. I appreciated this video as a reminder to be more aware of my programming, let go of anger, and start setting up those healthy boundaries. You articulated your experience and beliefs so gracefully, and it's encouraging to know I'm not alone. Best of luck, and you should 100% go back to school. :)

[@unclescar5616]

4:04 I think you've just steered some dark waters in the atheist community. Very brave! Hope the forthcoming uproar will resolve into a better EXPERIENCE for everyone.

[@SDBartel]

So agreed!!!!! Being on the offense constantly really just ends up = being offensive on some other atheist channels. Yes it can be funny/entertaining to those already convinced, but it is it at all convincing to belittle someone or make them feel less than for holding a different idea or opinion that they did not formulate themselves in the first place. GMS’s approach is brilliant and though I’m sure it would be hard to replicate due to his unique experiences and perspectives I truly do hope his method of trying to understand others’ points of view and addressing his topics to people coming from very different mindsets catches on.

[@chrisdraughn5941]

He’s talking about Matt Dillahunty’s show and he definitely has a valid point. I’ve long thought that Matt takes it too far and appears to be a bully on many calls. I can’t say that I wouldn’t lose my cool when trying to have a phone conversation with some of the people who call into that show. I’m sure I would. That said, it’s as if Matt expects his theist callers to have the same understanding of philosophy, epistemology and the same command of language as he does. Matt is being very unrealistic if he expects that. A fair amount of callers and the hosts talking over each other appears to occur from a delay on the phone lines. I’m sure it is just frustrating to deal with as it is to listen to.

[@mads2357]

Yeah. I just came from a TalkHeathen video that left a bad taste in my mouth. Hosts were factually incorrect on some points and even after looking it up they barely acknowledged it. Most of the call was the hosts laughing at the caller or dismiss their arguments and disagreements. The caller weren't great to be fair and apparently had a history of bad arguments. I'd just like them to either not take the call or engage respectfully with the ideas as long as they aren't hateful, bigoted or the like. I feel like I've seen more of this as of late and I'm not sure if it is a change in tone on the show or in my perspective.

[@chrisdraughn5941]

@Gee Ling - I think listening to someone mollycoddling a moron would be boring too. It’s also boring listening to someone trouncing a moron. I also think you’ve hit upon a major problem with the show, it features too many calls with morons and an irritated host.

[@mads2357]

​@Gee Ling I don't want them to molly coddle anyone. I want them to engage with the ideas instead of dismissing any point with stuff like "we don't need to respond to what you say". I watch them for the exchange of ideas and for understanding different perspectives. The instant hostility or dismissal that I am noticing more often leaves only a discussion of the most surface level ideas and with many misunderstandings that last for many minutes while the hosts repeat the same thing. I'm frustrated when callers do more to resolve misunderstandings and move the conversation along than the hosts. This is what I'm talking about. I like Matt too when he goes hard on someone that deserves it and he isn't really one of the hosts that does this a lot. He tries to steer the conversation but he is usually careful to make sure he at least understands what he is hammering down first.

[@benkesler487]

It's been more than 10 years since I left religion, but I still find myself deconstructing beliefs and biases I didn't even know I had from my religious indoctrination. For me, a lot of it has been views regarding sexual behavior and relationships.

[@edwardteach1992]

For me, I'm still afraid of dark places even as an atheist.

[@mikeygarcia8271]

We are now living in the last days ...to give you one of the many proofs..here is the uncanny resemblance of the U.N statue with the beast described in the Book of revelation? Tell me what you think? kzbin.info/www/bejne/qIXPgZSJnMdreNk

[@JP2GiannaT]

I think the dark places thing is evolutionary human, not "Christian". Dark places hide things with big sharp teeth.

[@helgmelia84]

I really value your perspective and your thoughtful, honest critique of Evangelicalism. I, too, was raised an Evangelical Christian. I have deconstructed elements of the culture surrounding it, while keeping my faith. While I am still a Christian, I agree with many of your points and I know the sorrows you are describing. I’m sorry for the pain that people have inflicted on you in the name of God.

[@chavem]

THIS! Exactly what I am going through...

[@gusposey8218]

All religion is a form of abuse.

[@TorianTammas]

Casey hell eternal torture chamber this is the message of Christianity. Painting God's torture chamber pink doesn't change anything people have to suffer forever according to Christian sadism. It is hard to find words for such an appalling belief system.

[@yearlywise8003]

I wish I possessed the same confidence you do. I’m also in the process of deconstruction, but don’t know if my faith will survive it.

[@gladysbatten822]

Wow! I'm 14 minutes in and I love this episode. I have always considered you thoughtful and respectful, and this latest is key. I have worked as a spiritual and community animator with youth in the public education sector and your attitude embodies everything we nourish in children in the context of pluralism. And I myself (as a "post-evangelical, deconstructing, agnostic theist", in her early sixties) want to stand shoulder to shoulder with you and people who think as you do to make the world a better place.

[@Psalms-fr8yy]

How has atheism made the world better?

[@mikeygarcia8271]

If you want a single proof that can prove that God exists..look no further - His people, the Jews. They still exist when all their enemies, great warriors of ancient civilizations, no longer exist. The Roman empire, the Greeks, Egypt, the Philistines... where are they now? Powerful armies have come and gone but the Jews remain no matter how many times they were besieged by enemies who want to annihilate them. But the Jews still exist and their military might is in full display for the world to see. The God of Israel never abandons His people for He promised to preserve them until the end of days.

[@roeliethegoat]

Ohh snap, the narrative spinning is so real. We have a similar background and I feel you 100 %. I'm so confused sometimes if I really do or don't want to do something because of that voice in my head. It sucks.

[@mikeygarcia8271]

We are now living in the last days ...to give you one of the many proofs..here is the uncanny resemblance of the U.N statue with the beast described in the Book of revelation? Tell me what you think? kzbin.info/www/bejne/qIXPgZSJnMdreNk

[@lynnjacobs9885]

I'm 72 and still "deconstructing" the Christian belief system I was instilled with throughout my childhood. It's a life-long process which will never be complete, but at least I'm now basically comfortable living and dying without "God." And I'm no longer terrified of going to "hell."

[@petepayette6690]

That is sad

[@lynnjacobs9885]

@@petepayette6690 Sad you say? Why sad?

[@Jesuslordoflords-y4m]

I am a former atheist turned born again believer in Christ. The Bible is the Word of God. Hell is real.

[@lynnjacobs9885]

@@Jesuslordoflords-y4m Sorry, not scared.

[@jessicawilson1751]

As a former Christian, the deconversion was the worst. Unlearning the habits developed over nearly 2 decades was really hard and traumatic. I'm still unlearning some, and the biggest frustration I have about my upbringing is that it stunted my ability to critically think. I'm terrible at asking questions, and I definitely noticed it when I worked on my master's degree in environmental science. I recognize some of my issues from my upbringing and I try to improve them.

[@caitlinsoliman1658]

What habits?

[@jessicawilson1751]

@@caitlinsoliman1658 biggest one for me was praying when I was stressed or nervous. That took a lot of time to stop. I also started saying "gods" instead of "God" to help kick the habit. Contemporary Christian music I grew up with still sometimes gets me to start singing out of habit or still trigger emotions I used to feel when I was a Christian. Fuck Christmas Shoes that song is the worst at getting me to cry, it's about a kid whose mom is dying of cancer and he asks someone to buy him shoes for his mom so she looks pretty when she meets Jesus and it's a "Christmas" song. Cinderella I actually give a pass for getting me to cry because the artist wrote the song for his daughter who died a little later after being hit by a car by one of her siblings.

[@AUniqueHandleName444]

I've had it come back a decade and a half after my initial deconversion.

[@ScarletDeath]

I took a religious studies class in college and it just ended up making me even less religious and more cynical. Don't let haters talk you out of furthering your education!

[@petepayette6690]

Yeah get indoctrinated Into being a heathern

[@catsinni]

Most of their narratives are a bit of fear mongering which is really concerning to be honest. This video helped a lot even though I'm not that religious but I've seen so many people who makes narratives especially as someone who has been like that before, which made me have religious trauma sadly.

[@bankerduck4925]

I definitely relate to this. And only recently did I become an atheist... This is a lovely channel and this video is so marvellous, so I wish to thank you. Thank you....

[@claytonreeves150]

I'm so glad you're continuing on your path of kindness and understanding towards all people, man. Always love seeing your videos.

[@annaliese1077]

Thank you so much for this. I was raised in a similar way to you, and my favorite thing some of my former “friends” say to me is, “well you were never really saved to begin with.” Nothing I say or do will convince them, just like nothing you say or do will keep them from spinning whatever narrative allows their belief system to remain intact. Do your religious studies if it makes you happy. They’re going to spin it however they want to anyway, so just do what you love without regard for their misguided opinions. You got this. 😊

[@kimberlyaustin7030]

I was talking to my therapist about this yesterday! Its also been about 5 years since I started. It is amazing what I still hold onto from my religious past.

[@Psalms-fr8yy]

What was wrong with Jesus Christ in your life?

[@cipherklosenuf9242]

@@Psalms-fr8yy Dear Psalms, If your faith is weakened there are many understanding seekers who can relate to you. Really, it’s OK for you to reach out too.

[@cipherklosenuf9242]

Dear Kimberly, sounds like you’ve come a long way! I hope you enjoy the Festive Season! Cheers! Fa la la la la!

[@mikeygarcia8271]

If you want a single proof that can prove that God exists..look no further - His people, the Jews. They still exist when all their enemies, great warriors of ancient civilizations, no longer exist. The Roman empire, the Greeks, Egypt, the Philistines... where are they now? Powerful armies have come and gone but the Jews remain no matter how many times they were besieged by enemies who want to annihilate them. But the Jews still exist and their military might is in full display for the world to see. The God of Israel never abandons His people for He promised to preserve them until the end of days.

[@thisisemmalyshandle]

@@mikeygarcia8271 north korea has its military might on full display too but that doesnt mean kim jong un is a deity like he may claim

[@wplants9793]

I’m so in support of your pursuit of religious studies…I’ve found it incredibly healing in my own lifelong deconstruction. Especially in the rectifying of the European Pre-Christian soul and identity. Some old Christian friends I was still talking to were disgusted when I traveled and found inspiration in ancient religious artifacts in museums, like the gates of Babylon. It was all “evil sacrificing heathens” (Christianity wasn’t even around then, how could you judge ancient people for not being Christian?) to them without seeing any of the divine inspiration I was taken by. While working with some intense pain in my body via somatic feedback sort of work for a couple of months, one evening an intense fear of burning in hell for eternity felt as if it literally came out of body. From the memory I could tell it was from my 8 year old self. I was reminded of how scared of hell I really was at that time. Cowering in the middle of the night, because I knew I was a sinner like we all were… It comes down to my immature brain not being able to process any of that scary damning narrative; it’s just not right to use fear tactics to control children period.

[@annaaquitaine4225]

I was deeply analyzing my faith in preparation of starting a ministry degree, and I had a day where it hit me I had no reason to actually believe (that held up). And then I started looking at the counters for the arguments I’d heard my whole life. First thing I found was the dude abiding in this video. I immensely appreciate the fact that these videos exist. I’m now so far away from the worldview I left that it’s weird to think “that was me.” It’s been like four months. I’m a lot happier and my worldview is progressively becoming much more coherent. And I’ve decided to go to school for engineering instead of ministry

[@angelamaryquitecontrary4609]

Quite right too!

[@eleanor8652]

Congrats from another former religious person! Hope you enjoy your studies!

[@gracehaven5459]

I wish I was that decisive. I've been on the fence about what I think on the matter for over half my life now lmao 🤣

[@AegixDrakan]

Dang, that's a heck of a turnaround. Good luck with the engineering degree! :o

[@raidermaxx2324]

wow!! you are a fresh fish! congrats! you are like Neo just waking up from being a battery! :) you made it tho! good luck with everything

[@corvorossocrafting6300]

I've been "deconstructing" for over ten years now, and I totally relate to what you said in this video. It does get easier to deal with over time, but even now there are still some things that remain stubbornly embedded in my mind (mostly old habits and thoughts) that I'm hoping will one day fade away like everything else has. It wasn't until five years ago that I really felt comfortable enough talking about my beliefs with others, and even now there are some family members I don't talk to about this stuff. But for the most part, I'm pretty open about it these days, and I've learned not to let it bother me that some people will think bad things about me or come up with narratives to explain away my behavior. Letting it all go has been the best thing for my mental health that I could have ever done. Every time I see one of your videos, I wish that there had been content like this years ago, and I think what you are doing here is so important. Wishing you luck in continuing your deconstruction journey!

[@cipherklosenuf9242]

Cool. It helps me to think of Jesus as Josh. What would Josh do? Helps me deconstruct.

[@Psalms-fr8yy]

Jesus loves you!

[@cipherklosenuf9242]

@@Psalms-fr8yy And in verse 10 “All the nations surrounded me, but in the name of Allah I cut them down…Allah Akbar!” Yes, it says that, except the substitution of Allah for Elohim and Allah Akbar for the “Lord’s right hand has done mighty things.” The author and original audience of that chapter offer much in common theologically with the Islamic State. Psalm 118 is about finally getting that sword wet!!!” Cue the trilling women and lusty cheers in the “tents of the righteous!”. Hm. Perhaps you mean well, I understand that, really. A better direct translation of Yesu is Josh. So Why does “Josh loves you” sound weird? Why does Allah Akbar sound menacing while “Hallelujah” sounds like liberation, relief, joy …sweet release?

[@lithasunset]

@@Psalms-fr8yy Stop. Just stop. I can understand that your core ideology tells you that this is the best for everyone, and you want to save people from eternal suffering, but this is just straight up disrespectful to the person's experience; it's like you read the person's comment and didn't comprehend a single damn thing - or blindly ignored, wich I believe to be the case -, and honestly, it's beyond annoying and frustrating. I'm also very aware that writing this comment to you is completely pointless because you just don't care nor will put any effort into understanding anyone's point of view. Have a good day/whatever.

[@Psalms-fr8yy]

@@lithasunset as a former agnostic, I totally understand it. God bless you!

[@jpaulnatale]

I also studied to be a minister in a Christian school. I'm decades past leaving and still fighting my programming. Thank you for sharing the part about how you interact with your family. That angle has been the worst for me.

[@zachanderson5914]

Exmormon here. I left the Mormon church last year after being in it for 29 years. Felt freeing to leave. I’m working on my deconstruction. I enjoyed this video. It has given me some things to reflect on. Thanks!

[@beranfisher7055]

You hit every nail right on the head with this video, Drew. I’m currently struggling with that idea of trying to subvert Christian narratives about me. I wish I just couldn’t care what they think about me, but I do. I want them to realize that I’m the same truth seeker that I have always been, just that the truth led me away from Christianity. I know I need to let that go. Thanks again for this video.

[@cipherklosenuf9242]

Hey I hear you. I’m there too. My mom passed away just over a year ago. I didn’t come out as atheist to her and even reassured her that Jesus was forgiving, which was comforting to her in a moment where that was meet and right, so to do. I would do that moment again. As the song says,”Let it be.” Right? I’m not “out” as an atheist though it probably wouldn’t be that huge a surprise. Like you, I sought truth, and I’d do it again. Cheers mate! Enjoy the Festive Season! Fa la la la la!

[@MatthewFearnley]

Thanks, these are helpful points to think about. The inclination to try and squeeze people into different narratives, and the harm it can do to people deconstructing, is good for Christian communities to be aware of and work against if we see it happening.

[@cipherklosenuf9242]

I infer you may be a Mormon or Jehovah’s Witness or something, trying to understand the struggles of church members deconstructing their faith so that the church can do better at keeping them in the fold rather than driving them away. It’s threatening to believe someone is leaving you or to realize that your faith and ministries are failing. There are clergy support groups for faith leaders who have lost their faith. If you’re in a life crisis there are anonymous support groups available. Seek them if needed. I hope that helps. Cheers!

[@MatthewFearnley]

@@cipherklosenuf9242 Thanks. I’m just a regular Christian who knows how all-too-imperfect regular Christians can be..

[@cipherklosenuf9242]

@@MatthewFearnley I am curious about Christians lately. Isn’t it stressful in a lot of congregations? Of course there’s the controversies over masking, vaccines…But, then there’s some fundamental issues of what is “true” about “prophecy” and “end times” …Is Trump the anti-Christ or a chosen Lion of God or something and who should regular Christians believe about this or that issue? Even within one congregation there are diverse beliefs. What are your thoughts? Is Trump a cult leader, a wolf in sheep’s clothing? Is Q a false prophet leading the faithful astray? Is Christian Nationalism a dangerous false doctrine or the true calling of American Christians? Is Christianity ministering to a broken nation or mostly just driving wedges between themselves? What fold the good shepherd and how do the sheep know? Caution, wrong responses may result in eternal damnation! That’s got to be stressful…right?

[@MatthewFearnley]

@@cipherklosenuf9242 I am English, so I don’t always have an intimate knowledge of what’s going on in America. The British press has generally taken a very negative stance towards Trump, showing him to be narcissistic and idiotic, but not as any kind of Antichrist. I’m not familiar with Q. I don’t know much about “Christian Nationalism”, but I think Nationalism is pretty unhealthy in general. My impression is that there are many “Christenised” parts of America, where traditionally Christian moral values and teachings are upheld, but not necessarily a love of God, or of unbelievers. (This can happen anywhere, but often gets associated with some kinds of fundamentalism.) Most Christian denominations don’t make any kind of claim to exclusive truth over other denominations. They often only differ in minor issues, or emphasis of major ones, or organisational structure, or maybe in the style of church service they hold. A lot of this might even vary per church congregation rather than per denomination. I think one of the biggest differences is simply in whether a church loves Jesus, accepts him as Lord, and seeks to live out his words. This is actually something that can vary not only between churches but within individual people.

[@cipherklosenuf9242]

@@MatthewFearnley Thanks for getting back to me and reminding me that the U.S.A. is not the whole world! My family includes a spectrum of Christian fundamentalist beliefs, these issues are heavy on my mind and virtually impossible to discuss. Theological disagreements, once easily and politely avoided, have become profound divisions, as it directly affects Covid vaccinations and behaviors. As you may know, the Festive Season in America began with Thanksgiving, this weekend. We didn’t get together, to avoid controversy and Covid. Thanks for giving me an opportunity to express myself. Having been a person of deep Christian faith, I understand how faith can be part of a healthy, well balanced life. It’s precious and central to one’s identity. It can also be a carnival of mirrors where people behold distorted reflections declared reality by cultural biases. Did you hear about the Q followers who assembled in Dallas to welcome the return of John and Johnny Kennedy from the dead? Spoiler alert; it didn’t happen. But we Keep Calm and …carry firearms. But anyway, cheers, And thanks again!

[@cyndrift]

"thinking my way of life is the only true way" god i feel that lol. the first five or so times my evangelical mother visited me after i came out as atheist was almost entirely me trying to deconvert her. even now its hard to think about people who are religious without also thinking "oh poor them, living their lives all for a lie." It's very much a thought process i picked up from evangelicals about atheists and people of other religions, just repurposed. it might also be part of the reason why i really struggle to think in shades of grey rather than black and white. I know that's already somewhat difficult but growing up internalizing that there are definite, immutable lines between good and evil to the rejection of all other possible outside ideas can't have helped.

[@chrisd6287]

Came back to watch this again 2 years later. What a great video.

[@amyslough7990]

I always felt guilty for not feeling the same way everyone else did. We both attended the same church and for years I was actually heavily bullied by the other Christian girls. It's taken years to stop feeling guilty because I realized how life could be much more. I have stories but glad to see I wasn't the only one.

[@MyDavidPutnam]

It’s hard to go against the grain when everyone you know and most people in society think the same way, but differently than you do. I feel the same.

[@Halaris593]

First, thanks for doing this videos and explaining your views in a calm manner. For me, my deconstruction (not from Christianity, but a lot of other things) made me learn that not only I was wrong, but that I need to challenge all mi views always, to be able to understand where I'm wrong, and also understand when I'm sustaining an idea that I really don't have any ground to support it. And this kinds of videos helps to see some of this ideas and also learn to confront them without going to an extremism. So, again, thanks for doing this kinds of videos :)

[@drwexan7684]

This entire video has really eloquently explained all of the emotions going on in my head. Thank you for this video.

[@TheMg49]

I'm 74 and learning from your videos. Never too late. I think you would be a great scientist. Biophyisics, physics, astrophysics, etc. Are you interested in getting deeply into any of that sort of stuff? Then again, you're doing a great service to both theists and nontheists, imho, with your well thought out and presented vids.

[@CullenCraft]

Many times when I call my mom for advice or support, the conversation inevitably turns to "god isn't finished with you yet" And it is a bizarre feeling to realize that my mom is more focused on what happens after i'm dead than what happens right now in my current life.

[@cipherklosenuf9242]

Lots to unpack there. I wish you well, sounds difficult. I can relate in that my mom passed away just over a year ago and she had a way of saying little one liners that would irritate me because they came off as so …you know. It sounds like you can talk to your mom, so maybe you’ll find a way to do that, or maybe just find a loving acceptance that that’s the best she has to offer and it’s ok. Instead of closing by saying, “god isn’t fin…” I will offer you, “Rivers flow to the seas”. Take care and I hope you enjoy the Festive Season in health and good cheer!

[@daviddeida]

She sounds like she cares about you,if you gear behind the words what she says.Also I find you maybe right works very well in moments.

[@mikeygarcia8271]

If you want a single proof that can prove that God exists..look no further - His people, the Jews. They still exist when all their enemies, great warriors of ancient civilizations, no longer exist. The Roman empire, the Greeks, Egypt, the Philistines... where are they now? Powerful armies have come and gone but the Jews remain no matter how many times they were besieged by enemies who want to annihilate them. But the Jews still exist and their military might is in full display for the world to see. The God of Israel never abandons His people for He promised to preserve them until the end of days.

[@CullenCraft]

@@mikeygarcia8271 Occam's razor on this one: the Jewish god survived because the Jews survive. Not the other way around.

[@mikeygarcia8271]

@@CullenCraft Can I ask you something? Can a people become a nation again after having been dispersed in all parts of the world? And in the many countries where they were exiled, they were the minority and were heavily persecuted. They were not allowed to secure jobs and were often expelled from their lands. And throughout the ages, kings, queens, political and religious leaders tried to annihilate them...do you think they could survive as a people? Could they become a nation again and become a powerful force in the region when they get back from exile, considering they are a small county, as small as New Jersey with the land mostly dessert and were surrounded by enemies? can they survive as a people much less to become a very powerful nation ...yes or no?

[@goodlookingcorpse]

You were practicing Christianity wrongly. You weren't meant to abstain. You were meant to indulge and then lie about it.

[@zucc4764]

or even better, just pray for forgiveness afterward

[@cobalius]

@@zucc4764 Or even better.. getting this kick by doing that in a large group.. all while silently raising your social status among the group because either god tests you a lot (daddy loves you more than the other crisps) or you were very invested into bettering the relationship to god (which makes you automatically better in giving good moral advices) .. either way.. live sinny or be otherwise trouble-some like hell, then earn more points by showing devotion all the time then answer all their questions with bible quotes. Quick tipp: hardship and age aren't good indicators for good advice-makers. But empathy, selfcare and social-ness are.

[@StrangerInParadise58]

I can so relate to these points. Deconstruction is definitely a process and takes time. I walked in strong faith for over 40 years. I may not live enough to totally deconstruct. But it’s a journey that I now happily pursue. 😊

[@ethanking8556]

I am currently 21, and am just beginning my deconstruction. Your videos have been an invaluable resource. Just wanted you to know that you're doing the lord's work :)

[@annabetsy5406]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/d3uZnIejiNmJerc

[@damonwolters5189]

One thing I struggle with on this journey is the persistent urge to pray for guidance in the midst of big decisions or challenging life events. *Me late at night with a lot on my mind: "God, I... oh yeah, I forgot; it's just me here."*

[@cipherklosenuf9242]

I relate to that. For a few years I decided, “God wakes me at 3:00 AM to pray”. I didn’t necessarily “believe”that, you know, it just seemed to work for me and I went with it by talking to “the lord” at that time. The Quaker faith has a phrase that might be helpful, “Carry it as long as you can.” If you’re curious look it up, I think it’s George Fox but could be wrong. And of course I talk to myself, always have, prayer is talking to yourself with an inner monitor credited with actually knowing stuff and actually being able to do stuff that “you” can’t. It’s a habit of mind and has its function (or sometimes dysfunction 🤣) Hey enjoy the Festive Season!

[@IheartDogs55]

I thought I was crazy. That urge to pray is stubborn. I prayed hours daily. It was a hard impulse to drop.

[@mikeygarcia8271]

We are now living in the last days ...to give you one of the many proofs..here is the uncanny resemblance of the U.N statue with the beast described in the Book of revelation? Tell me what you think? kzbin.info/www/bejne/qIXPgZSJnMdreNk

[@mikeygarcia8271]

It is the Holy Spirit that encourages you to pray..God hasn't given up on you ...go to Him. He is real...listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit that is still in you...We are now living in the last days ...to give you one of the many proofs..here is the uncanny resemblance of the U.N statue with the beast described in the Book of revelation? Tell me what you think? kzbin.info/www/bejne/qIXPgZSJnMdreNk

[@mikeygarcia8271]

@@cipherklosenuf9242 We are now living in the last days ...to give you one of the many proofs..here is the uncanny resemblance of the U.N statue with the beast described in the Book of revelation? Tell me what you think? kzbin.info/www/bejne/qIXPgZSJnMdreNk

[@BONETOASTER1111]

I really appreciate the AXP callout. I stopped watching the show all together a while ago because I just couldn’t accept that it could be helpful to anyone. It’s just mean 90% of the time and seems designed to provide a steady stream of “dunks” rather than help people.

[@GeneticallyModifiedSkeptic]

Yep. “Dunks” get views and make the host doing the dunking feel superior. With decades of history and experience to draw from, the show should exemplify careful dialogue and effective communication styles, but it does the opposite most of the time. If we as public figures are not continuously working to improve our skills as communicators and leaders, and are instead coasting off of stoking outrage (which is harmful to our own community), we should be called out.

[@Keira_Blackstone]

I emphatically disagree. in my experience, they only 'dunk' on people that call in to be antagonistic, or argue dishonestly or in bad faith. TBH GMS's passive aggressive insult against them makes me a whole lot less interested in watching his content.

[@weirdwilliam8500]

I appreciated this, too. Matt used to be someone I could listen to for hours, and now I can’t bring myself to watch AXP if he’s one of the hosts. He’s really changed. I want to hear a discussion, not shouting, swearing, and constant interruptions. Such things have always turned me away and made me less interested in the ideas being shouted at me. When I bring this up to other atheists, it’s jarring to see some of the tribal defense mechanisms they throw at me. A lot of personal insults, accusations, and assumptions about my motives. It’s all very disappointing. We should do better and set the example for theists.

[@Apanblod]

@@weirdwilliam8500 I get the impression that the new people who host the show and many of the supporters and viewers have come to almost expect the verbal beating and rude tone at this point. And I think this has also lead to them wanting to emulate Matt, perhaps inadvertently, in order to get in on some of that 'ownage' of theistic callers. Matt used to be a fantastic host back in the day, but recently he seemingly can't have a normal conversation.

[@weirdwilliam8500]

@@Apanblod I don't think any of the other hosts have his problem, from what I've seen. I like all the other shows the ACA puts out, and there are some great conversations. But I agree there is a "bro atheism" that is more about owning people in debates, feeling superior, and defending the in-group. I don't know where exactly the line is where it becomes less about self-confidence and more about toxicity, but there are definitely people who cross that line.

[@isaiahwallace5119]

I'm a Christian, but I rather enjoy your videos. Of course I don't agree with everything you say, but you're generally respectful and that's all anyone can ask for. Conversations are good

[@laurabaker5376]

This has been my experience with leaving AA after 15y of extreme indoctrination and devotion to the organization, and the ideals/beliefs it upholds. I am still trying to undo and deconstruct the deeply ingrained core beliefs I internalized while there. When I left, every person within my primary social group ostracized me. I felt alone, abandon and rejected from all social interaction. Thank you for this video; it is always helpful to not feel alone.

[@augustgremaud2738]

Thank you for this heartfelt and earnest proclamation of your struggles. Your content is always welcome in my feed. There’s not much money in philosophy, but if you DO end up going back to school for anything at all, I’d highly recommend taking some classes if you have the opportunity. A deeper understanding of what informs both secular and non-secular people’s sense of morality as well as what schools of thought already exist might greatly benefit your work and personal journey.

[@roundpigeon5215]

Damn, that part about narratives being spun is so real. I constantly worry about what my family and people from my old Mormon community must think about the way I'm living my life now. It's such a pervasive, torturous source of anxiety and I wish I could show them what they did to me so they could see how insane it is.

[@zyxwut321]

Thoughtful and well considered as usual. Most solid things in life are because of a process, not an event. Thanks for sharing your process!

[@mikeygarcia8271]

We are now living in the last days ...to give you one of the many proofs..here is the uncanny resemblance of the U.N statue with the beast described in the Book of revelation? Tell me what you think? kzbin.info/www/bejne/qIXPgZSJnMdreNk

[@mikeygarcia8271]

If you want a single proof that can prove that God exists..look no further - His people, the Jews. They still exist when all their enemies, great warriors of ancient civilizations, no longer exist. The Roman empire, the Greeks, Egypt, the Philistines... where are they now? Powerful armies have come and gone but the Jews remain no matter how many times they were besieged by enemies who want to annihilate them. But the Jews still exist and their military might is in full display for the world to see. The God of Israel never abandons His people for He promised to preserve them until the end of days.

[@karlminehart6246]

Well said, I walked away from fundamentalism but it’s claws were still stuck in me, it is a slow and sometimes painful process removing those claws.

[@Bill_Garthright]

Nice! It's interesting to me how that still affects you today. My experience was _very_ different. I was raised Christian, but just nominally - back when _everyone_ was Christian (everyone I'd ever met, certainly), but no one seemed to take it seriously. I'm sure that's not actually _true,_ but it seemed like it to me, throughout my childhood. I'm 70 years old, and that was before the Republican Party in America adopted their "Southern strategy" of deliberately wooing white racists, which seems to have been the impetus for right-wing Christians jumping feet-first into politics. It wasn't religion so much as it was politics which seemed to create evangelism - and it was politics based on racism, at that. Again, that was _my_ impression as a complete outsider. Were there evangelical Christians when I grew up? Sure, I suppose. But _I_ didn't know any of them, not in our small Nebraska town, certainly. I'd never even _heard_ of them, even though everyone I knew was a Christian. And there was no connection to politics _at all,_ as far as I could tell. Even when I went to college - in a very right-wing state like Nebraska - pretty much _everyone_ was Christian, but there was only a handful of people - literally just four or five - who really got into it. We called them "the God Squad" as a joke. I'm talking about _Christians_ poking fun of them, because I was still the only atheist I knew. Everyone was Christian, but it seemed to be more of a family tradition than anything else. (I met my first Jew in college - just casually - and my first bigot against Jews, too. I was absolutely _shocked_ that antisemitism was still a thing. Well, I was just a kid.) I never understood it, and I still don't. I still live in Nebraska, in a very red-state, _overwhelmingly_ Christian. But people don't get upset that I'm an atheist. They get upset that I'm a liberal. Heh, heh. And then _that_ is what's supposed to be against 'God.' It's all about politics (which is, again, all about racism, even these days). Well, that's just my impression. I'm still surrounded by Christians, but none of them - _none_ of them - want to talk to an atheist about religion! Even the missionaries who used to come to my door would immediately run away when I told them I'm an atheist. (When I just told them I wasn't interested, they'd stick like glue.) So my impressions don't _entirely_ agree with yours. For the most part, sure, but not entirely. I see your background in some of that, just as I see _my_ background in my own thinking. Well, that's inevitable, huh? But you can't imagine how _impressed_ I am at people like you, devout believers who had to make a wrenching change in their worldview. I never had to do that. Being an atheist was _easy_ for me. I just _never_ remember believing it. So, Drew, you definitely have my respect! Keep up the good work!

[@annabetsy5406]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/d3uZnIejiNmJerc

[@annabetsy5406]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/d3uZnIejiNmJerc

[@thrice42]

This vid reminded me of a thing that lingers in my mind even though I think about it less and less. Growing up, the church service would have a prayer section where people could state things they wanted us to pray about. People would sometimes say things like "please pray for my son, I hope he can find his way back someday." Since I have left the church I imagine that they say similar things about me. even though it doesn't affect me at all it makes me angry for some reason. Also, I haven't commented before but watching these kind of vids is helping me. I've been happy not being a Christian for a few years, but now I can confidently say that I'm an atheist. it's nice.

[@cipherklosenuf9242]

I have a very similar reaction. Well said. I’ve started responding a lot lately. It’s helping me process. When I read comments that trigger me, I get a brain flash on anger, guilt, self-doubt or loss. I can walk away and think about it. I can respond…or not. I also enjoy writing lyrics and making up songs ( I’m easily amused and talk about a cheap hobby!) Sometimes I write my own lyrics to Christian melodies that are still cherished to me, though the original words are…you know…cringy. Hey, I hope you enjoy the Festive Season and find some amusing creative things to do! Fa la la la la! Where’s my ugly sweater?

[@TheMrCougarful]

Your philosophy has matured, that's all. There is good and bad thinking at all corners of the room. When you eventually reach my age, you'll notice that the thinking is mostly bad, though. Demonstrated intelligence and commitment to reality are vanishingly rare.

[@TuftyVFTA]

Haha "When you eventually reach my age, you'll notice that the thinking is mostly bad, though." with no sign to show that it's a joke or slight sarcasm feels scarily pessimistic? Though I'm quite long in the tooth too, and I do vaguely relate to what you're saying... :¬)

[@mikeygarcia8271]

If you want a single proof that can prove that God exists..look no further - His people, the Jews. They still exist when all their enemies, great warriors of ancient civilizations, no longer exist. The Roman empire, the Greeks, Egypt, the Philistines... where are they now? Powerful armies have come and gone but the Jews remain no matter how many times they were besieged by enemies who want to annihilate them. But the Jews still exist and their military might is in full display for the world to see. The God of Israel never abandons His people for He promised to preserve them until the end of days.

[@danielkover7157]

A much welcome video, Drew! Thanks for bringing up deconstruction vs deconversion. I've been in a similar boat, but I've never had a word for what I'm still going through. It's much more complex than just a one-time threshold you cross. I've run through scenarios in my head of where I'm trying to explain the nuances of what I think, feel, and see to my family, but I don't really feel like doing so. My family is so indoctrinated nothing I say will matter. The religion I was raised in (more or less the same as yours) is a doctrine based in fear, ultimately. I've had to set some boundaries and will continue to have to do so. Deconstruction isn't easy, either. Getting past what's put into your mind requires being able to recognize what's in there in the first place, and sometimes it's not very obvious. Everytime I figure something out, then I have to figure out how to get past the hurdle. It's like a test. I guess the biggest tests will be when my parents pass and then my time comes. I've thought about that a lot. (Sorry about the downers.) Keep up the good work, Drew. When you face a hurdle, don't give up. There's a way around. And keep making great videos.

[@cipherklosenuf9242]

I can relate totally, but I’m probably older than you chronologically and my parents have passed. I’m not “out “ to all my family and too am reluctant, as you have expressed. I don’t want to burden them or myself with baggage and maybe it’s selfish to have that conversation, maybe it’s selfish not too…ya ya.. you know? What I think and believe has leaked out over the years and they too have their beliefs and doubts and inner struggles too, for sure. I hope you enjoy the festive season in good health and good cheer!

[@duetopersonalreasonsaaaaaa]

Figure something out, figure how to get past it... that's my life. Been that way for years. My two therapists call that overwhelming part of my brain the guy brain, psychologist brain, scientist brain... it's fascinating to me how connected my upbringing as a Christian and my mental health decline are so related. Questioning my faith at 17 were the best damn set of decisions I ever made. Only physics can happen in a vacuum, that's for sure.

[@jonathanmitchell2040]

I always appreciate your honesty and candour. I left Christianity 15 years ago (under very different circumstances), and frankly there's still a lot of approaches and worldviews that are baked in and affect my thinking to this day. I like the term deconstruction, and I think you're right that it's ongoing. It'll be a lifetime of deconstruction for me, I'm sure.

[@ribeye10000]

I agree with you, the “he still loves god so he’s studying religion” response is in the back of my head as I think about what degree to go back to school for. Thank you for voicing your fears! In regards to Matt, it seems that his goal is to organize and educate. I think that many Christians who call into his show think they can argue and debate with him, and can’t because they don’t know what they’re talking about, and Matt’s goal is to continue to call out toxicity in religion, and not give it undue consideration because he wants to be nice. Maybe you see more clearly and have more to share, but if you want to make a hit piece on the atheist experience just make a hit piece.

[@carpo719]

I can't imagine what it would feel like to one day realize everything you learned was a lie. Well actually I can, just not in that degree. I grew up as an atheist. But discovered my own version of Truth as the decades went on. Need no other mans version of reality, we must make our own.

[@IheartDogs55]

I felt angry in the beginning. I believed I was lied to. Now I realize those who taught me were not lying. They sincerely believed. I must constantly remember I, too, was once a person who sincerely believed. Was I a liar back then? We must not judge a person's motivation unless they demonstrate it to us.

[@TheCowboy4000]

You're lucky I was raised LDS/Mormon. I absolutely hate it. I can't believe anyone would believe the crap they teach us. But there are a lot of delusional people in the world who don't even think to question it. I consider myself an atheist now. I believe science over religion.

[@Jonas_Fox]

Thanks for all you share brutha. After decades of time away from the church, what I've gathered is, our social primate needs are fundamental, more-so than reason. We're wired to value social status in our group higher than independent thought or even personal needs. Church affiliation meets a lot of those social needs so to leave the church is to set out on a journey for a healthier alternative, and that pursuit is not easy or automatic but it is valuable.

[@dziobak101]

Drew, I highly recommend “Traumatic Narcissism: Relational Systems of Subjugation” - a book by Daniel Shaw - in your quest to deconstruct how you were conditioned. Also, I love how you subtly called out the Atheist Experience for its narcissistic need to subjugate and humiliate believers. So often, the abused become abusers…

[@cipherklosenuf9242]

Well said!

[@thelagsalot]

I enjoy the show and acknowledge that they can be a bit mean. With that said they don't make outgoing calls. If people want to call in I feel like they are asking for it.

[@mikeygarcia8271]

Let us repent of our sins for we are now living in the last days ...to give you one of many proofs..here is the uncanny resemblance of the U.N statue with the beast described in the Book of revelation? Tell me what you think? kzbin.info/www/bejne/qIXPgZSJnMdreNk

[@mikeygarcia8271]

If you want a single proof that can prove that God exists..look no further - His people, the Jews. They still exist when all their enemies, great warriors of ancient civilizations, no longer exist. The Roman empire, the Greeks, Egypt, the Philistines... where are they now? Powerful armies have come and gone but the Jews remain no matter how many times they were besieged by enemies who want to annihilate them. But the Jews still exist and their military might is in full display for the world to see. The God of Israel never abandons His people for He promised to preserve them until the end of days.

[@wardibald]

"Pieces of social technology which serves to construct a reality that makes remaining [..] more comfortable". Thank you for this sentence: it is a short and accurate explanation of how so many people are able to keep believing things that are so obviously detached from actual reality.

[@annabetsy5406]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/d3uZnIejiNmJerc

[@AUniqueHandleName444]

Man, if only it actually made people more comfortable.

[@alexrharvey7]

That whole "you just left so you can sin" just doesn't even make sense. It implies that you still believe in sin and implies that not calling yourself Christian means God can't punish you for sinning, neither of which are accurate. You don't believe anything is a "sin" and they believe God will still punish you for your actions regardless of what you call yourself. Like, it's impossible for them to even consider things from any angle other than their own

[@splaar]

If I "just wanted to sin," I'd still be a Christian because then I could just pray for forgiveness and I'd be good to go before I die. But leaving the religion while still believing it because I "just want to sin" would guarantee me a spot in hell, even according to my own beliefs. As illogical as this argument is, Christians will continue using it because it's better than admitting that it's possible for someone who used to believe in God to stop believing

[@alexrharvey7]

@@splaar yeah I agree with you completely, if it's not impossible for them to consider a possibility where someone doesn't believe in God it does at least make them consider that it's possible for a decent person to stop believing in their God. Lots of religions like to pretend like you can't understand the religion or be a good person and still leave

[@splaar]

@@alexrharvey7 Yes, because if a good person who at one point truly believed in the religion leaves it, that implies that the religion wasn't the thing making them good and of course we can't have that, especially not for a religion that tries to shove its will down people's throats and pass laws based on the teachings of the religion

[@DJHastingsFeverPitch]

Lol just lean right into it: " yes exactly, I just left because I wanted to sin"

[@mikeygarcia8271]

We are now living in the last days ...to give you one of the many proofs..here is the uncanny resemblance of the U.N statue with the beast described in the Book of revelation? Tell me what you think? kzbin.info/www/bejne/qIXPgZSJnMdreNk

[@kathiegoldsmith1457]

Welcome to Austin! I think you should go back to school and get that degree. Maybe you will someday find yourself teaching, and that would be, dare I say, a blessing for all of us! Seriously, you are so relatable, thoughtful, and safe. Your clarity of thought is refreshing . Follow your bliss wherever it leads you.