A Proper Introduction

[Dang MartinParticipant]

I realized, just now, that I’ve not given a proper introduction. I’m Dang Martin, and I’ve been a non-believer for my entire life. I had no awareness of Christianity or the concept of gods until I was in first grade. I learned the hard way, and paid the ultimate social price for it.

While I do my best to be civil, so that the Mods don’t have to worry about me, I do not care if anyone’s feelings get hurt, or if they are offended. The reason why I don’t care, beyond the fact that these are not legitimate arguments, is because it is not my goal to harm, upset, or offend.

As an adult, I learned about the Atheist label. I wear this label to indicate that I hold no belief in any gods, but I have no emotional attachment to it, and can be called “that guy who isn’t buying it,” if that helps to move the discussion along.

I do have a few pet peeves when it comes to forum activity.

Unsupported declarations: This is when someone makes a statement, such as declaring something to be wrong, and then they provide no evidence to support their declaration. Saying it is easy, and does not make it so. Make a case for your position. Who knows, I may learn something as a result. I’m here to converse and to learn, not to be correct or agreed with all the time.

Declarations of offense: I’ve known people who are offended by the fact that I exist. It’s not an argument, and means nothing. If someone outright calls you “stupid,” then they are personally attacking you instead of making an argument. Being offended does not make that person correct.

Acts of misdirection: This happens when, instead of addressing something, a person declares that thing to be “elitist” in nature. This is also not an argument. Address that thing. If someone is wrong, then tell them why they are wrong. Calling them “elite” goes nowhere.

It’s not that these things offend me or hurt my feelings [wouldn’t THAT be ironic?], it’s that they are clear indicators that the conversation is a complete and utter waste of time. I’m not here to waste time, as I can do that without beating my head against a wall. I’m here to learn, and to interact with others. I don’t know it all, I’m open to being wrong, and I know that being wrong is a possibility.

I don’t know it all. In fact, the more I learn, the more I realize I do NOT know. I don’t have all the answers. Not even close. I’m comfortable with not knowing, and comfortable with the idea that life might be some kind of thing that has no purpose or meaning, and that the end is truly the end. Those are just guesses, and I’m open to being wrong about all of that, too.

The way I see it, if I am open to being wrong, then I can learn, which means I know more, which can make me a better person. If I think that I am right, then I will stand up for that. This is an opportunity for anyone to explain why I am wrong. Saying that I’m wrong, that I’m offensive, or that I’m elitist, does not help me or anyone else in the least. Explanations are always taken into consideration. I can think about ideas without adopting them as my own.

Beyond all of that, I like romantic dinners and long walks on the beach, and I love to laugh.

Also, I stole that last part from every profile on every dating website, ever. Maybe I’ll get to know people, or at the very least have an understanding. Best case scenario is that I’ll be a better person as a result of being here. At the same time, I hold no expectations.

Thanks for reading.

[JadeBlackOliveParticipant]

I agree Dang. I join these sites to learn & to be with other atheists. Nothing I think is ever written in stone & I change my opinions constantly.

Thats the whole point of learning, & I will not get into arguments with the religious. I don’t debate well, am not fast on the uptake, & prefer to keep my blood pressure down.

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