I proudly embrace my identity as an atheist, yet I often avoid discussions on this topic. Why? Because through experience, I have realised that no matter how eloquent and persuasive my arguments may be, people often remain steadfast in their beliefs, preferring to cling to their convictions.156Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡROZ65VN5sj
This realisation struck me during a profound and heated debate I had with my best friend, Ricky, when we were both youthful twenty-one-year-olds, still navigating the complexities of university life and harbouring the audacious belief that we could conquer any challenge.156Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrbWHQOrZzh
What began as a spirited conversation quickly became a disastrous clash centred around Christianity versus atheism. Neither of us emerged triumphant; instead, we wounded each other deeply with our impassioned rhetoric. Our exchange was as brutal as it was relentless, our words piercing like sharpened quills.156Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQIFltzDMpA
Since that fateful encounter, I have refrained from broaching the subject of religion in my conversations. It has become a forbidden territory, a taboo in my speech repertoire. Fortunately, Ricky and I managed to preserve our friendship, yet we have consciously avoided revisiting our "battle" regarding matters of faith. However, this was not the conclusion of my journey towards atheism; there is more to my story.156Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBRtaakKMTq
Detractors often argue that atheism is akin to religion, asserting that atheists "believe" in the "absence of gods." I respectfully disagree. A distinct disparity exists between believing in something and disbelieving in something. My lack of belief in a higher power does not equate to an unwavering conviction that no such entity exists.156Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0h0D2nCVGc
While not all atheists are scientists, many who reject the notion of God do so due to the absence of credible evidence substantiating His existence. As a scientist, I am accustomed to seeking facts and demanding proof before embracing any notion. This, I believe, is a reasonable request.156Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMxp61dNqFC
The foundation of science rests upon empirical evidence, and while it may not be able to illustrate every phenomenon, its contributions and applications are ubiquitous. Our mobile phones, automobiles, internet, and medicines would not exist without the marvels of science and engineering.156Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmVfjIvJxiO
Science, of course, has its limitations and does not purport to answer all questions. I wholeheartedly acknowledge this reality and find solace in its imperfections, for they underscore the boundless potential for expanding our knowledge and understanding of the physical world. Science catalyses discovery—a journey where knowledge begets more knowledge. It is an unwavering pursuit of enlightenment as long as we remain committed to continuous education.
Perhaps, someday, conclusive scientific evidence will emerge that validates the existence of a divine entity. In that scenario, I would be compelled to reassess my position. Until then, however, my disbelief in God remains unyielding. If considering this, a transgression deems me sinful. Then it is a trespass I bear no remorse for committing. Ultimately, my beliefs align with the conviction that there is no afterlife—an ideology in which I find solace.
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