I’ve never met an atheist face to face. I’ve met a lot of people who CLAIM to be atheist, but they all turn out to be agnostics, once some probing questions are asked.
That being said, I’ve noticed a trend about five years ago to redefine “atheist” to include agnostics.
That is an interesting observation.
I have very good friend who takes a defensive posture every time I bring up my belief system.
I have watched him for 35 years now try crystals and sage, various other behavior counseling and he refused to budge.
He’s looking for answers... Married a MENSA wife, they have an incredibly gifted child. INCREDIBLY. San Diego junior orchestra incredible. Classical music competition winner incredible. All before she was 8.
His wife is an atheist. Christianity is beneath her, so it goes for him.
Plus I don’t think the ever really got over the time in high school when he challenged me and I knocked him out.
Now, he’s on the outs with his wife. No sex is 4 years I’m told. Lives for his daughter.
He says he’s part native American and it was Christians who slaughter is ancestors. Ancestry.com could clear this up.
We remain BEST friends though. We both have home recording studios and collaborate in the cloud now through Pro Tools 12.x.
I try to witness from time to time, but no light yet.
I don’t judge. I’m not qualified. Just hope his Crist opens his heart. I pray for this.