Religion

Religion is often a very sensitive subject for discussion because it is so close to us emotionally and is so very difficult to back up with logic or facts. There are people whose religion influences their actions and emotions every day. They hold a strong sense of what is right and wrong based on the teachings of their God and are able to be assured in knowledge of the afterlife. Those with strong religion and atheists like me often have trouble discussing religious matters because religion or a lack of religion is so emotionally charged.

The billboard above makes a claim that the universe is too massive and complex for anything but a God to have created it. Their opinion is obvious and the delivery is not offensive; God’s presence is undeniable. Besides the general assumption that God is male, few of the usual perspectives of culture (gender roles, sexuality, ect) come into play. Science, religion and culture of course play a huge role in the claims of this billboard. The message is against evolution and encourages creationism with the text “The invisible things of God are clearly seen from the creation of the world, so we are without excuse (for denying his existence”. The choice to uppercase just the words “ALMIGHTY GOD” follow a similar pattern of God’s greatness over human’s insignificance. Atheists will look at this billboard and not be offended but will ‘roll’ eyes at the ‘ignorance’ of those who snub scientifically proven evolutionism. Atheists have a difficult time, or at least I do, understanding what it is like to believe so strongly in something without proof, or at least without tangible proof.

Both parties fully believe their beliefs are correct. Not does this cause conflict and useless arguments, but it also halts everyone from moving forward or closer together. If both sides refuse to acknowledge the points of the other party than nothing can be accomplished. Prejudice against those of different religions or against those without religion creates needless conflict. Often our prejudice can create signified images which are interpreted negatively; atheists holding picket signs which cut down the pope parallel Christians picketing for an end to gay marriage. Negative symbols spread farther than peaceful ones which create confusion, misunderstandings and ignorance.  In the end, we are all the same. We are all a little bit ignorant of others different than us, but we can accept that and try and respect varying opinions.