• Browse: About; New; Previous; Next
• Return to Letters Index
• Home to Positive Atheism

Making Fun Of
Imaginary Friends
No Fun Any More
Christine Lehman

From: "Christine Lehman"
To: "Positive Atheism" <editor@positiveatheism.org>
Subject: Drawing A Line
Date: September 27, 2001 11:16 PM

Hi, Cliff,

I am one of those people whose attitude towards theists has changed quite a bit. And while the 9/11 attacks solidified that feeling, it had been happening for quite some time.

I definitely think you are making a valid distinction between private expressions of theism, and public (governmental) abuses. We must continue to speak out against the latter, but frankly, I just don't find myself getting mad at people for trying to evangelize me anymore. I mean, okay, if they're pushy and obnoxious, yes. But when it just comes up in casual conversation, it's just not a big deal to me.

And it used to be a big deal to me, so much so that I created a web page with the charming title of "Jesus is Dead -- Get Over It!" and nicknamed myself "Atheist Gal".

Well, I'm still "Atheist Gal" but I've radically changed my web page (at http://www.angelfire.com/ca5/atheistgal) -- in fact, today I cut it down even further, for practical reasons (it doesn't really get enough hits to justify my continuing time and effort). But also because the fun of getting outraged e-mails from angry, illiterate Christians just got old.

Who am I to try and take away a frightened kid's teddy bear when he's just awakened from a terrible nightmare? If his imaginary friend helps him get back to sleep, more power to him. I'll draw the line when he asks me to kiss it!

Thanks, Cliff. You've really helped me clarify a lot of issues in my life. You're one of the good guys.

Christine Lehman -- aka "Atheist Gal"

Material by Cliff Walker (including unsigned editorial commentary) is copyright ©1995-2006 by Cliff Walker. Each submission is copyrighted by its writer, who retains control of the work except that by submitting it to Positive Atheism, permission has been granted to use the material or an edited version: (1) on the Positive Atheism web site; (2) in Positive Atheism Magazine; (3) in subsequent works controlled by Cliff Walker or Positive Atheism Magazine (including published or posted compilations). Excerpts not exceeding 500 words are allowed provided the proper copyright notice is affixed. Other use requires permission; Positive Atheism will work to protect the rights of all who submit their writings to us.