Comment by Pam on February 18, 2009 at 2:52pm

Suggesting that deconversion creates a void seems to imply that atheism/secularism/humanism isn't its own fulfillment. It suggests that atheism is empty. And it may seem like that at first, but I have personally become a more realized and complete person after turning away from religion.

That space is not empty, just transformed. What was once attributed to god and the supernatural can now be a product of self achievement. You're allowed to enjoy yourself and take pride in your own mind and ability. I have a deep sense of respect and awe for what humankind has achieved on its own: science, art, society, etc. I also enjoy the freedom of living, not in fear and subjugation under god, but among other humans as equals. Neither have I any reason to hate or discriminate my fellow humans.

And if that doesn't "fill the void" then I don't know what will. :p

Comment by Johnny on February 18, 2009 at 4:15pm

You're right Pam... That space is transformed, I know it is for me anyway.

I would not want to imply that atheism is empty, because I've found it more fulfilling than any religious pursuit I ever attempted. So maybe there is a better way to phrase it.

I do think it is a void for some people though; especially in the social aspect. I've talked to people who involved themselves in social events of the church, and once they decided the church was a crock they were grasping at any event to fill their social void.

If anyone can think of a better way to phrase the questions without using "void" I would happily revise my wording.

Comment by Pam on February 19, 2009 at 8:25am

I do think it is a void for some people though; especially in the social aspect. I've talked to people who involved themselves in social events of the church, and once they decided the church was a crock they were grasping at any event to fill their social void.

I can understand that. Like an ex-boyfriend or girlfriend. Suddenly you have nothing to do on Sunday mornings and nobody to do it with. I'm going through that right now living 6 hours away from all my family and friends. There's definitely a void.

And I don't think it's wrong to call it a void. The idea of god is a pretty big one, so when that idea is removed, it's easy to feel like there's nothing in its place. But hopefully the recently de-converted will realize they don't have a void or an emptiness or whatever. Because I think the idea of no god is an even bigger idea. ;-)

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