I know that as an atheist, I spend too much time thinking about god and believers. I probably should give religion no more thought than I do machine-gun collecting — it’s just a weird thing that doesn’t interest me.

Still, gun-nuts play a smaller role in our society than god-nuts. Mind you, I realize I’ve let my mask slip a little. I want to believe that you can believe anything you want and that does not lessen you or elevate me. Of course, if you believe meth is great, we’re probably not going to be good friends. I wouldn’t be the first to call religion the opiate of the masses. I understand, it’s good to kick back with your favorite intoxicant once it a while, be it faith or a doobie. If you believe in the teachings of organized religion, it’s no worse than enjoying the occasional cocktail.

No one sane could object to anything that brings more love into the world or anything that guides people to a more peaceful life. Religion has done that at times, as has drinking. But everyone tires of drunks, no matter what’s gone to their heads.

If my crude analogies upset you, you may need to read your scripture to find a way to love me in spite of myself. As god surely does. (A favorite line from Junebug is: “god loves you just the way you are but he loves you too much to let you stay that way.” amen.)

But I digress. I’m actually writing to send you to read my friend cko’s thoughts about hope and faith. Don’t fear: cko is not the barbarian I am; her thoughts on religion are more nuanced and better informed. Read her insights and say a prayer for her while I raise my finger to heaven, again. mjh