Being an atheist in a Christian home can be easy or tough, but hopefully these tips will make life easier.
Step 1
Tell them in a polite manner that you are an atheist. If they pester, bother or even yell at you for being an atheist, don't make an argument. If they try to argue, tell them that you are not going to debate this. You have made your choice, and it will not change.
Step 2
Respect their religion. In time, they will learn to respect your choices as well.
Step 3
Don't do things you wouldn't normally do as an atheist. You cant be forced to do anything. If they ask you to a religious activity (e.g. going to church), say no in a polite manner.
Step 4
See if you can find any other atheist in the community. Socializing with someone can help you make a new friend that agrees with you. If you can't find one, or maybe none of them wish to talk to you, you can go online and see if there are places you can go. Anywhere you can go to be around fellow atheists will ease the burden.
Step 5
Don't give in or lie to them about being an atheist. This is your choice, and they should not be able to intimidate or manipulate you to change that. It's your life; you can make decisions to steer it how you want to go.
Tips
- Arguing and fighting will only separate yourself from your family. You're an atheist and in time they will accept it and life will go on as normal. However, you should expect a few minor changes, like not going to church, not praying, etc.
- Even if they don't have a big debate, they may make small, insulting remarks. For example, someone might say, "I can't wait to go to heaven with mom, dad, grandma and you- oh wait, never mind." If they have recently found out you are an atheist, it may just be that they aren't used to it yet. But if it has been around two weeks and they still make small remarks, tell them to stop. They may not stop unless you tell them to.
Warnings
- Don't lose your temper. Not only will this increase the anger, but they can also use this against you if they are going to talk to someone about you as a atheist.
- If a person might physically harm you or kick you out unjustly or illegally for being an atheist, don't let them know until you get help from someone, whether it be a friend, or even a police officer.
- Be ready for the consequences. Even if they don't argue or insult you, they may still shun or ignore you.
- Do not try to convince them to become atheists; if you want your choice respected, respect theirs.
Things You'll Need
- Self respect.
- Self-control.
- Understanding.
