Today is a "Hug an Atheist Day," according to Lodi atheist Sarah Tygert. The day was initiated four years ago by a man named William Bermudez, who encourages everyone to find an atheist, agnostic, Zen Buddhist or anyone else who questions the existence of a god, and then give that person a hug.
"Lodi may be a small community, but many atheists call it their home," Tygert said in an email. "You may know one, or a few (statistically, one in 10 identify as a non-believer) and not even realize how they often feel."
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Darrell Baumbach posted at 9:01 am on Tue, Jun 5, 2012.
Manuel stated...I give hugs everyday. Who needs a special one?
Actually, I think a hug is always special if the intent is compassion and warmth.
Manuel Martinez posted at 8:57 pm on Mon, Jun 4, 2012.
I give hugs everyday. Who needs a special one?
Bob Silvano posted at 5:12 pm on Sat, Jun 2, 2012.
WOW ! What a pleasurable revelation. Actual understanding and compassion for those of us who choose to take a path that differs from the “norm”. How unexpected and exciting. I am so proud those who chose to step forward and embrace, at least, the concept that another possibility exists. Kudos’ to each of you, and my sincere thanks. Bartender......hugs all around on me !
Darrell Baumbach posted at 9:34 pm on Fri, Jun 1, 2012.
Showing kindness to people is a good thing. Giving hugs to people no matter their beliefs demonstrates that kindness.... It should not matter if one is an atheist or not. People are people.
Doug Matheson posted at 8:33 pm on Fri, Jun 1, 2012.
Hi Bob. I'm sure if you ask anyone who identifies themselves as an atheist, they won't deny you your right to believe what you want. Atheism is almost always misunderstood in this way by those who are not non believers. We are not about disrespecting peoples right to believe as they wish. It is the belief itself we deny. We also do not assert there is no god. We reject the claim there is one. There is a difference.
David Diskin posted at 6:52 pm on Fri, Jun 1, 2012.
Hi Bob. I believe in your freedom to believe what you choose to believe in.
Now how 'bout that hug?
Bob Silvano posted at 5:02 pm on Fri, Jun 1, 2012.
Instead of a hug, how about someone just telling me they believe in my freedom to believe what I choose to believe in, and let it go at that. I won't bother you if you don't bother me.