Atheists & Christians - The Similarities

While beliefs fall at the opposite ends of the spectrum there are some things that many Christians & Atheists have in common:

• Neither wants the other's beliefs to have place in school curriculum.
• Both want their own beliefs to be part of school curriculum.
• Neither want the other's beliefs to hold any influence on the government or the law.
• Both want their own beliefs to hold influence in government & law.
• Neither will give the other's views or arguments much thought.
• Both want their own view point to be given a platform, an ear, and due consideration.
• Both (at times) clutch at silly/often untrue arguments.
• Both accuse the other of being stubborn and ignorant.
• Both want the other to be enlightened to their belief.
• Neither wants the other to be permitted freedom to proselytize.
• Both want their own freedom to proselytize.
• Both accuse the other of being hotheaded and angry.
• Both believe that small children should be taught against the other's belief.
• Both believe that small children being taught anything other than their belief are being brainwashed.
• Both accuse the other of being a problem in society.
• Neither want to be offended by the other's arguments and beliefs.
• Both want freedom of expression for their own arguments and beliefs.
• Both accuse the other of being offensive.

Much of this has been generalized and i by know means label every Christian or atheist with these things. The post is meant to poke fun at a 'war' that i think could be fought with more civility, humility and grace from both sides.


A serious question for both may be "Why do you believe what you believe? Is it just something you've been told by parents, teachers, authors etc. Or have you really thought it through for yourself and examined it - is your belief second hand or do you 'own' it?