For atheists, coming out about their atheism can be just as hard as it is for gays to come out about their homosexuality. Friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers often adopt a much more negative attitude towards a person merely because they are an atheist. Family, especially parents, sometimes feel that they have been betrayed, that they have failed, or that their children have been "lost."
A forum member writes:
Has everyone here told their families they are an atheist? I just blurted it to my brother last night who I'm afraid is going to tell my parents. I'd rather he didn't, as they are very religious Christians. But I don't know if it would be better to tell them right out before he tells them or just hope he doesn't say anything. I did tell him not to say anything, but who knows with him. Anyway, I just wanted to know if I'm the only coward who's scared to tell family
Some argue that it's important for atheists not to hide who they are -- that hiding necessarily implies shame and that atheism is shameful while coming out helps communicate that atheism is reasonable. These are good and sound arguments, but it also cannot be denied that some family situations simply don't allow people to come out safely and easily. How have you handled the matter? Add your thoughts to the comments here or join the ongoing discussion in the forum.
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