We are almost always on the top of the lists of charity and service. In addition to Christians being there, along with others of course, Americans come out looking pretty darn awesome in the world of generosity and time and service. I know, the popular notion is that Americans suck, and American Christians are the bottom of the barrel. But as a non-believer, I couldn't help but notice my personal contact with Christians in America was different. Well done Catholics, well done Christians and religious and others in America who continue making our country still one of the most generous and giving not only now, but ever.
Ok so when did the non-believer thing come about?
ReplyDeleteIn college, in the 80s, I was a proud, self-proclaiming liberal agnostic. And even then, the common knowledge was the religious types, especially 'too religious' types were a mean and zealous lot who only wanted to convert people and didn't care otherwise. One of the things that helped me along the way was realizing how a stereotype, promoted by pop culture, art, academia and even politics was so wrong.
ReplyDeleteFunny, I grew up Catholic in the deep South. In grade school someone actually did ask me why we prayed to statues. When I graduated college and moved to DC, people wanted to know how a bright guy like me could have come from the South.
ReplyDeleteIsn't it fun not living up to stereotypes!
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