I suppose that an introduction is in order.
My name is Chris. I’m an atheist.
That’s probably the most appropriate label for me. In general, I despise labels. But this one appeals to me for many reasons – despite the negative connotations it may carry. Not only does it describe my position on spirituality and religion (in other words, the proverbial crock of shit), it also implies other qualities that I hold close to my heart: skepticism, rationality and critical thinking. To me, if one has the intellectual fortitude to question the existence of a supernatural deity, it follows that one possesses these other qualities as well. Other, greater men and women have debated the pros and cons of the atheist label, all with valid points. I only know what works for me…and I’m proud to call myself an atheist.
I haven’t always been an atheist. In fact, I only recently came to admit to myself and the world that I am. Like most people from my little corner of the planet, West Texas, I was raised to be a Christian. But even at the tender age of 9, Christianity didn’t pass the smell test. However, to keep the peace with family and friends, I played the game. And then one day I looked up, and I was 40 years old with a dawning realization that I’d wasted half my life trying to be something I’m not.
So, here I sit, tapping away at the keyboard, attempting to give voice to the thoughts in my head and the feelings in my heart. I’m well aware that my voice is just one among thousands, but I will still try. Even if I strike a spark in only a single mind, the effort won't have gone to waste, as my children are the reason that I write. I want them to grow up in a world that’s safe, civil and clean; and I don’t believe that humanity is currently on a path to get there. To be perfectly blunt, there are things happening in this world today that simultaneously scare the shit out of me and make me completely fucking furious.
So, I write for my children.
I’m no scientist, I’m no philosopher, I’m not even really a writer. I’m an MBA, and a marketer by trade. I really have no more qualification to be writing a blog than spending a lot of time in thought. I’m not looking for fame and fortune through my writing. As a matter of fact, I would quite prefer that my name be left out of the discussion. I’m a private person, very much the introvert. Therefore, other than this briefest of introductions, I won’t say much more about who and I am and where I came from (unless it adds value to the post, of course). I want to keep the focus on my ideas and my reactions to what’s going on in the world around me.
It’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance.