Thinking of friends and family that were not religious growing up. It is my thought that so many turn to religion out of despair. Life has been so hard on so many that they feel their only help would be from a deity. This is a really sad state of being.
Religion can be a magical mystery for some people. It's like a pacifier for a baby. It's the illusion of being fed. The parent you run to for help. Something you can praise or curse depending on an outcome.
Despair has been said to be the cause of atheism as well.
Yes it is but it does help them as a crutch shelton
@SheltonI have had a few acquaintances who got way too far into drugs or/and drink and it literally saved there lives.
It's not our place to judge - some might not have turned to religion at all - it was simply part of their life growing up and some may actually feel that it gives them purpose or a sense of strength. I know more than a few religious families that lead wonderful lives - not depressed in any way. It gives them their fix like running or drinking coffee or watching a scary movie and it works for them. It shouldn't be viewed as a negative or a less than because there are people who are religious.
We have to meet people where they are my friend. People evolve at different stages...peace.