None for me, thanks.

I am not a religious person, nor am I a spiritual person. I feel no need for it in my life; there is no "void" without it. I am content believing that this life is what we get, all we get, and when we die, that's it.

I have nothing against religion. I know many people derive comfort and strength from their beliefs, and I'm happy for them that they do. My husband goes off to church every Sunday; fine with me as long as I don't have to go with him. Our kids go to Sunday school. It's fine with me; I used to go when I was a kid.

But do I believe there is a God or gods? No. Do I believe there is an afterlife? No. Am I confrontational about it? No.

If someone asks, I'll tell the truth. I don't make a big deal about it. I understand that faith (or lack of it) is a personal thing. I'm not going to lie about it, but I don't "proselytize for atheism" either.

( So, why does my lack of religious belief make some people become defensive? )

(P.S. It should go without saying that I want other people's religious beliefs kept out of my personal life and out of our laws. But that's entirely different subject, and I'd just be preaching to the choir in this group anyway.)

Update: Old story, but I have to mention it. I attended a Catholic high school. When I was a senior, the math teacher, Sr. Helen, found out that I didn't believe in God. After questioning me about it, she told me, "You should pray to the Blessed Mother that you find faith again."

I had to point out that since I didn't believe in God or "the Blessed Mother," that there was no way I would pray to either.

She pursed her lips (she was rather McGonagall-ish) and said that she would pray on my behalf. I told her that was fine. After all, if it made her feel better, who was I to say no?