REVIEW: Mom, Dad, I’m an Atheist: The Guide to Coming Out as a Non-believer

[cleanhippie]

In this review of “Mom, Dad, I’m an Atheist: The Guide to Coming Out as a Non-believer” by David G. McAfee, I should start with what brought this book to my attention in the first place.

On December 28, 2012 we received the following distraught message in the inbox of the Better Off Damned facebook page:

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This message was troubling, to say the least. In addition to a personal response, we forwarded this to our community via the screen-capture above, which lead to an overwhelming outpouring of support for this girl. It was with these comforting and supportive comments and messages that several people recommended to Michelle a new book aimed at helping people in coming out as an atheist.
It was this which prompted me to contact the author and check out this book for myself, in the hopes that it could be a valuable resource I could suggest to others struggling with the difficulties of being open about their non-belief.

The very first thing I can attribute to it’s author, David G. McAfee, before having read a single page of his work, is his absolute sincerity in making a genuine attempt to help guide fellow non-believers through this process. I mentioned Michelle and what she was going through, and without hesitation he reached out to her by generously allowing us to send her a free copy of his book, which she was overjoyed and very appreciative to receive. David also shared Michelle’s ordeal on his own pages, bringing even more community support in her direction. This sense of community is one of the notions stressed in the book.

From the back of the book:

“This essential guide to coming-out as a non-believer has been written to make it easier for atheists, agnostics, freethinkers, and non-believers of all ages and backgrounds to be open about their non-religiosity while minimizing the negative interactions in familial, social, and professional circles.

As a survival guide for non-believers who wish to come out, this book provides advice and resources for those interested in publically rejecting religious dogma as well as real stories from non-believers who have experienced coming-out to less-than-supportive family or friends.

Whether you’re new to disbelief and looking for the cleanest possible break from your former faith or you’re a lifelong atheist who wants to establish a sense of community with like-minded people, this guide provides useful resources including: tips for handling potential conflicts with believers, the author’s answers to some of the most frequently asked questions on behalf of believers, and numerous references to support groups, services, and advocacy organizations dedicated to non-theists.

From dealing with grief from a secular perspective to handling potential clashes in religious worldviews between significant others, this book offers multiple perspectives from non-religious individuals who have generously shared their experiences to help those atheists who may find themselves in similar situations.”

http://betteroffdamned.wordpress.com/2013/01/06/review-mom-dad-im-an-atheist-the-guide-to-coming-out-as-a-non-believer/

[humblebum]

1. I have seen several examples of reverse situations where young people came out as believers in

non-religious or non-believing homes. For some it was tougher than others. Oftentimes the normal life of the family is disturbed and other family members see such almost as treason. I can remember in the 60's when I became fascinated by Communism, especially Maoist teachings and came home with a Little Red Book. Not a pleasant memory, but the family got through it, and I outgrew the "fad" in college, even rejecting atheism.

Young people are quite impressionable and often change over time.

[Phillip McCleod]

2. omg

[humblebum]

3. Couldn't agree more. nt

[2ndAmForComputers]

4. Cool story, bro.

[rug]

5. The Better Off Damned facebook page is an unimpeachable source of truth.

[2ndAmForComputers]

6. Papayas are richer in vitamin C than oranges.

[rug]

7. Cool story, bro.

[2ndAmForComputers]

8. I know you are but what am I?

[rug]

9. Self-evident.

[dimbear]

10. Thoughtful, respectful thread.

Note how respectfully received, my friends.

[cleanhippie]

11. Thank you.