I have zero desire to overtly influence another’s spiritual path beyond living my own truth and keeping my own house in order. Every path is like a fingerprint, individual/personal. I’m happy to share my path if asked and offer suggestions ultimately your right, Living by example I find more useful in the long run for all parties to grow. Being argumentative or speaking with contention is a big step BACK and my focus is forward.

I am also for showint religious people how the stories of their religion originated with older religions, how their scriptures are factually incorrect and dont' match up with archeological or actual historical records. We have documentation to back up our beliefs,but they don't. I am not saying to present this in argument, but as just a reason why we can't believe what they do , when they try to "convert" us.

That is very true. As the saying goes.. practice what you preach. Not many do. When debating about the subject, I let them know why I feel the way I do and how religion isn't needed in my life. I have set good morals and values without dogma, and it's been working quite well for me. I also have noticed that non theists are not so quickly to judge like most theists are due to basing their assumptions from the bible or what they think is right according to what their so called god wants. Treat others as you want to be treated .. its called common sense and common courtesy.

Debate, sarcasm, bullying shuts people up. It doesn't encourage discussion that leads to change. Action speaks louder than words. Walk the walk. I'm not discounting the passionate aggressive approach by some on this website but for me I am not encouraged nor do I feel like I belong. I will not be bullied so I am still here.

I agree with you pretty much across the board, with the same caveat that Tsjames raised about point (3). This is indeed a place where the more isolated members of our community should feel free to vent and grouse about the Christian bigotry and discrimination that they face every day, particularly in the Bible Belt. That said, you're absolutely right that the only way to increase our numbers is by modeling kindness, fairness, intelligence, and respect towards all.

Thank you so much for posting this. It is very timely. I saw several users banding together attacking one tonight just because he has different viewpoints than them. This should be a safe place for all non-religious people, not just the militant atheists.