Sacramento Freethought writer Brett Shanley

How did I become an Agnostic?

How did I become Agnostic? Well, mayby it was always IN me.

It started in 5th grade. I was in Sunday school scince about 2nd grade. Anyway, in 5th grade my teacher said; "if you are not Christian, you are going to hell." Followed by a schpeel about how if we knew people who were not Christian (it might even have been CATHOLIC!) we better convince them to be one if we didn't want them to be tormented in the afterlife for all eternity.

I left with a strange feeling inside. I told my mom this, and she explained how she, as well as most people, (even though they me Christian) they do not believe that. It was the single most incredible event in my whole life.

I then saw the world-very slowly at first-than with great speed; in a totally different light. I would watch movies and ask questions.

For instance, in the movie "Congo" there are natives who danced around a fire, wearing paint, chanting to their god/gods. I thought to myself, "If they do the dance wrong, mis-step, or pronounce a word wrong, does God still hear them? And how is this display different from a Catholic prayer?

Not much, I figured. I soon realized the full extent. The lies, the wars, the hate-crimes; all because of this trash called religion!

Someday, Mr. Kelley, the truth shall be realized by all. Until then, I will do whatever to hasten this revolution.

thank you for everything,

Brett R. Shanley
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