I’m Proud of Who I Am, An Atheist
I remember, somewhere, someone once said that it takes strength to say they are a Christian. However, it takes more strength to openly admit you're an atheist, especially living in a society dominated by a religious standards. In some parts of the world, it is considered illegial and condemnable to be an atheist, just as it is to be gay or to be a woman with a working job.
I do not condemn any religion. I understand a need for it. Yet I no longer have need for it. Rationality, logic, and critical thinking are what I base my morals on. I also have come to realize some of the damage it as done on humanity through time and history, and how it can greatly affect the influences of youths of today. The teachings of love, respect, and tolerance have been disguised behind ignorance, bigotry, and hate. Religion may bring out the best, but it also brings out the worst.
I say these words not to insult anyone's beliefs. I say these words to let you know that I am brave to stand before you, to be different from you. I am proud to be an atheist, just as anyone can be proud to be a Christian, Jew, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, Satanist, etc. We can all coexist together. It is definitely possible. Time has proved it again and again. We just need to side aside all ideologies and focus on promoting science, reason, skepticism, and humanism.