The Pearls of Coming Out Atheist

Pearl Moment Coming....

The Pearls of Coming Out Atheist

My best friend from Bible college called me last night. We talked for a long time. She asked me if I was in the Word and I said," no I am an atheist now." My heart was in my throat as the words came out my mouth. There was a brief silence and then it happened.

Much to my surprise we had a very pleasant conversation. My friend listened to me. She asked questions. She was loving and patient as I explained how I came to my current position. She didn't try to talk me out of my beliefs although she admitted that my "news" was blowing her mind.

We often hear about the perils of coming out as an atheist but we seldom hear about the pearls. Those moments when there is space to tell your story and someone actually listens without trying to change you. I call those gifts of friendship "pearl moments."

 Pearl moments happen when two people open themselves up to understanding each other without feeling the need to debate, change or shame each other. Those moments are rare, precious and life giving. Those moments are a gift given from a place of love. Those moments allow us to grow and to remain open to different perspectives. Those moments keep us from becoming inflexible and rigid.

As I reflect on the past month, I can see several other pearl moments as I have been coming out as an atheist. The first moment was with my partner. Then my mom. Then my pastor and now my best friend from Bible college.

All of these women have been gracious to me. All of them have given me a beautiful "pearl" and I wish to simply say," thank you."