This is with regard to the article, 'A confused atheist' (May 22). I think the author need to rethink his view of atheism. I quote from the article, "Finally, nature, not religion, not atheism nor agnostic beliefs will reign supreme." With this, I ask the author one fundamental question, Why do you assume atheists want to reign supreme or rule the world? This shows the stance of atheism has been, and still is being misrepresented in these times when I thought people would have started to be tolerant of the beautiful diversity which exists among humans.

This, I think, happens because Christianity does not fully preach tolerance of other people, but rather is interested in converting everyone else to their faith with the view that the billions of non-believers are destined for hell. This is seen every day on the streets and on the buses by Christians preaching to passers-by about converting to their faith.

All atheists want is just to be left alone. We are not interested in being converted; so stop preaching to us. Please, just respect that. We have made our decision, if there is a hell and we find out later, fine, we are prepared to live with the consequences.

Preaching hate

We are not preaching hate to Christians, so all we ask is for the same to be reciprocated. Atheists are very tolerant of other beliefs and as such, accept every different religion, not for ourselves but for everyone who wishes to believe in them. We are no different from Christians; only our beliefs are different and we are respectful of that, so, please, do not let it be a bother to you, allow us to exercise our democratic freedom. I have never seen atheists trying to convert Christians, but rather we will passionately defend our 'faith' if confronted.

I am, etc.,

DWAYNE POWELL

dinna543@hotmail.com

Kingston 6