As a young atheist/agnostic, I denied the existence of God for practical reasons. During my school years, I found it difficult to understand why anyone would believe in God without visible evidence. I knew my parents, teachers and friends were real, because I could see them and I could see their impact on the world around me. God, however, seemed completely hidden. I often thought, "If God exists, why would He hide in this way? Why wouldn’t God just come right out and make it obvious to everyone He exists?" As I examined these questions many years later, I began to consider other factors and considerations, particularly related to the nature of love and freedom.
I held love, compassion and freedom in high regard, even as an unbeliever. These were values I embraced as essential to our survival as a species, and values I considered to be foundational to human flourishing.
True love cannot be coerced. If God exists, it is reasonable that He would remain hidden to allow us the freedom to respond from a position of love, rather than fear.
Love requires a certain amount of trust; we must trust the being who loves us has our best interest in mind, even in times of doubt.
God is not a created thing for us to see, but rather a living force inside that gives us reality and existence.
I don't believe God wanted to interfere with our daily routines and development. God wanted us to become unique on our own, by learning from our mistakes, making our own choices and appreciating life.
