When something is not symmetric, it is asymmetric. When something is not typical, it is atypical. When a person is not a theist, he or she is an atheist.

Being an atheist isn’t a ‘thing’. In fact, atheism is, by definition, ‘not a thing’ (i.e. not a theist).

Most atheists take the position that there is insufficient evidence, or no evidence, to support the claims of the theists in regard to the existence of a single deity. But even that is an assumption as to the reason for atheism and it is not necessary. Atheists neither must explain nor defend their absence of belief. Atheists don’t need a reason because they are not the ones making the claims.

So when the religious or spiritual take aim at the atheists as being in opposition to their beliefs, they are in err. True atheists live in a state of absence of belief, not opposition to it and most (but perhaps not all atheists) would accept a theist position if evidence was presented.

So, dear atheist, do not be drawn into a state of opposition or ‘making a stand’ against the religious or spiritual. That position is not consistent with atheism and will draw you into debates that, by their very existence, strengthen the theistic position as having any merit at all.

And if you chose to put forward anti-theist positions, please do so. But please identify yourself and the positions as anti-theistic.