I am an atheist...

Dear Abby:
I am an atheist. I keep this to myself most of the time because of people's misunderstanding and fear. Over the years, a number of people I cared about drifted away once I told them about my beliefs.
I'd like to share with you and your readers what I do and do not believe me:
1. I believe in the golden rule.
2. I believe each human life is precious; indeed, all life is precious.
3. Terrible things have been done in the name of religion, but in the end, I believe much good has come to the world because of religious beliefs.
4. I don't believe in God or any other supernatural being, including the devil.
5. I believe that with death we cease to exist. Therefore, while we are here it is our job to treat each other and ourselves with care and do as little damage as possible.
America is based on freedom of — or freedom from — religion. It's uncomfortable feeling that I continually need to conceal my true beliefs from others.
Signed, Still a Good Person


Abby's Response
As recent events have proved, many evil acts have been done in the name of religion. While atheists are in the minority, you owe no one an apology for your feelings; they are your own.



This is how I feel, too. I'm not the 'good person' who wrote this. But I'm glad a dear aunt, now 90, found it and gave it to me.