amire

Thanks for your responses, guys.

ASU2003: I tried to keep stating my specific beliefs to a minimum, as this isn't the philosophy section and that's not really the subject of the post. BUT, if you believe it's relevent, I'm basically of the atheist viewpoint. There is meaning to life, but that meaning is what we humans give it. I also think that we are our own masters of our fate...can't count on luck or a higher power for success or happiness.

I've definitely already done the introspection you asked about. I've been considering it for years. People's reactions will not change what I believe...just how much I state my beliefs.

Cierah: I wholeheartedly agree that there's no reason to come out and tell people that I've left the faith. But I probably will be faced with people asking me how I like the churches in my college town, asking why I've missed church, etc. I don't know how to be honest without hurting anyone.

3Z3VH: I agree that those who don't associate with others if they change beliefs are shallow. I doubt my friends would turn from me...but I worry about causing them pain. I also agree very much that I've learned a lot of moral lessons from the church...I wouldn't be who I am today without it. I've learned a LOT about tolerance, mainly, and also about being unselfish. Definitely valuable lessons.

Thanks, guys!