Expert: Bob - 5/24/2004

Question
Hi, After examining my beliefs for the past few years, I have pretty much come to the realization that I am an athiest (as in I don't believe in god)
However, so many athiests I do know are as bad as the religious zealots out there, wasting their time arguing vehemently that their is no god, when technically that can't be proved either. (yeah I know, there is no evidence of the easter bunny either, and we aren't all wasting our time trying to prove or disprove HIS existance) I just wanna exist, live, die and whatever happens after happens. My question is: Is there a label for me that is not so emotionally charged as Atheist?
This comes up a lot, and agnostic doen't fit.(too wishy washy) Thanks for any ideas
Jen

Answer
Hi Jen R.
 I know exactly what you mean, personally I have been an Atheist for more years then I like to think about. Usually from what I've seen, the ones that debate it the hardest are the same ones that in the end doubt it the most. A lot of young people go through a phase where you would think them the strongest atheists that you had ever seen and a year later they are born again. As for myself, even though I am what you would classify as a "strong" Atheist I generally follow the same guild as you. "I just wanna exist, live, die and whatever happens after happens."
 One term that I find I like on many different levels and one that I think would apply very well for you is "Freethinker." Below is a pretty decent definition for what a Freethinker is:

A freethinker is one who thinks freely -- one who is prepared to consider any possibility, and who determines which ideas are right or wrong by bringing reason to bear, according to a consistent set of rules such as the scientific method.

Anyway, I hope this helps. Just relax, be the best person you can, live you life as best you can and don't worry about it.

                       Bob

P.S. Stop spreading those nasty rumors about the Easter Bunny. If he isn't real then who is leaving all that fake chocolate on Easter?