Dawkins says that religion is delusional. So what? There are always those Christian Captain Ahabs that will go after the atheist white whale. That is delusional because in so doing, they bring down their ship.

Instead of being personally victims or feeling persecuted, it would be more instructive for them to analyze why statements like this are being made but it is easier for them to take offense and proclaim how right they are.

As it turns out, non-belief is on the rise, precisely because of the adamant pounding on the table by preachers as they castigate those who disagree with them.

I don't agree with a lot of ideas floating around out there but I don't feel personally attacked or insulted. At times I will evaluate those ideas, accept or reject them based on research, and if I disagree, I don't dislike the person I disagree with on the basis of what they purport to believe.

Regardless of what their stated beliefs are, if I see them being a productive member of society, compassionate, caring and helping those in need, my respect for them goes up.

I disagree with what Martin Luther King has said about religion but I hold him in high esteem for his good works. After all, this is really what counts.