I went through a period sometime recently where I was a little too beligerent when it
came to the discussion of religion. I have met some fine people who I admire that have their religious beliefs inform their behavior in positive ways. If I have offended any of these people, I apologize profusely.

I believe the First Amendment to the Constitution is a Golden Principle. It defends the
rights of people to believe whatever they want. I don't think it is constructive to belittle
anyone's belief system if they are committed to it on a personal level.

I have been mistaken in finding it necessary to defend my non-belief through a negative discourse. The bottom line for me is how do people behave? If they are loving, socially constructive, good human beings then what does it matter what their personal religious beliefs are?

I think that when people who are non-believers such as myself become aggressive and nasty it accomplishes nothing useful. There are those who are believers that I love dearly. I believe that love and a nurturing community are the real "values" that make sense to me.
I am more impressed by how folks behave then what they profess to believe.

I have found folk music to be a great healer. It brings people together of all persuasions.
Animosity and differences melt away when folks sit down to sing and play together.

In short, anger doesn't get it. Only reason and responsible behavior are the best allies.

Apologetically yours,

Frank Hamilton