Sorry folks, I know the "Candace Conti Case" is where all our time attention should be for now. I just had this much less important issue on my heart and wanted to make a quick note of it, as I am struggling with remembering all the details as clearly afterward.
Although I am a non-religious believer and simple follower of Jesus, I have had some constructive interaction with atheists and agnostics on JWN. I do enjoy learning more about their perspective. This generally creates better mutual understanding which is conducive to less prejudice, ignorance and hostility in society.
Not so others who use abusive language and display a mean spirit.
After thousands of hours of contemplation, prayer and research I sincerely believe that atheists are one step closer to God than religionists. One imagines that a reasonable minded atheist may see the graciousness of such a viewpoint, whilst agreeing to disagree on the existence of God.
God chooses to live in the hearts of believers and manifest through them, despite the fact that believers are just as dysfunctional, aberrant and corrupt as anyone else (from God's point of view, and barring the apostate ruling religious clergy class). Believers see this as an awesome display of God's humility. Atheists choose to ignore any manifestations of God in those around them, and even in themselves.
It is admittedly hard to restrain oneself when subjected to abusive language and mean spiritedness. However such restraint is one of the many ways God can manifest his presence in the heart of a believer.
I know I am far from perfect and still require much refining on my life's journey. Therefore I do not demand perfection from others on JWN, and would be delighted if offered the same consideration.
Can an atheist reasonably use his unfavourable circumstances in life as an excuse? Why do abusive atheists choose to ignore the fact that there are many on JWN with much worse circumstances and far better behaviour and attitudes?