The atheist

Many of you people may have heard of stories similar to this one. This isn't exactly a serious story whatsoever, and isn't meant to cause a stir of commotion or controversy. This is just a random thought and story of mine. Once, there lived a man. This man was an everyday man who would take care of his kids, feed them, love and care for his wife, and provide for his family by working extensive hours at work, and getting the money to feed them. He had a very good life, and wanted his family to enjoy their lives as much as they could, and so they participated in numerous social activities and celebrations. They would attend concerts, performances, and sporting and celebrational events, and they would usually give in to the demands of their children, parent pending, of course. In other words, this man had an extraordinary life, full of bliss, accomplishments, and a bit of everything else. The only element missing from this man was religion. He had never, at his point really considered on what religion to be a part of, and considered himself an atheist, who didn't necessarily believe in God. He did understand most religions and there principles, but chose not to be a part of any one in particular. Now, this was a problem because at his work, he had many friends and co workers who were religious. There was Mike, who was a very strong Baptist Christian, and served at his church whenever he could. There was Nasir, who was a practicing Muslim, and didn't fail to pray at least 4-6 times a day, and usually read the Qu'ran whenever he could, at home. There was Gerald, A man who followed Judaism, and attended his synagogues. And there was Amir, who was a practicing Hindu, who not only prayed, but also brought his holy book to work as a guide. Sing-tao was another religious person, who was a practicing Buddhist, and believed in the concepts of Buddhism, and was typicaly seen at his temple near his neighborhood.

The man was interested in many of their religions, and he'd usually spend some quality time with each person, getting to know about their religion, the concepts, beliefs, and practices. He would always go home with a different view on life, and many, many views on who God was, and what his purpose was for his people. Some religions, like Judaism, christianity and Islam had similar principles, while other religions like Hinduism and Buddhism had many distinct principles and ideas. But they were generally all the same. All of them, he thought, centered around the idea of being peaceful and respectful, and to worship their lone Gods only, and to fulfill their commands or words of wisdom. When the man reached late adulthood, he still couldn't decide on which religion to choose. " if i were to choose one, the other guys would look at me with deep suspicion and would treat me with an austere look in their tones." He thought to himself. So, on his deathbed, he made a final statement to his family, and his friends. " I've lived an extremely successful and happy life, and have done what I could do. I hope my son and family will continue to be happy, and I have seen ups and downs of this world, and the people inhabiting it. " Before he went to sleep, his religious friends came in, and sat down beside him. the man had requested a prayer, but did not specify on who to pray for him. " I want all of you to pray for me." He told them. Confusion hit them, and the Christian asked him, " but if i were to pray for you, you'd have to accept Jesus christ as your saviour. the same with the other guys." And they all nodded in agreement. Finally, the man told them, " I have come to the realization that religion is what seperates us. It may bring a band of people together, but only in it's own segregated group. Every religion has it's own ideas, and differences, and this is what makes it impossible for everyone of every religion to live in total harmony and agreement. Tension always occur but you know what, in the end, it doesn't matter because all the religions look up at some sort of higher power for guidance. They're all the same to me. I'd really rather not choose one, so consider me a person who accepts all principles of religion in his life, and has an open minded view and perception on things, and chooses to understand, rather than to blame or protect." And with that, he peacefully died in his sleep.