NationStates Jolt Archive

Alright. I live in a predominately Republican/VERY devout Christian town (also note that 95% of the townsfolk share that viewpoint) and I am an atheist. About last month I started to get threatened by other kids because they were... unhappy... with me being atheist, as well as a Democrat. I need help on this, before either a) I snap and fight back or b) They start to get serious.

What can I do? What are your thoughts?

Conform to their society.

Alright. I live in a predominately Republican/VERY devout Christian town (also note that 95% of the townsfolk share that viewpoint) and I am an atheist. About last month I started to get threatened by other kids because they were... unhappy... with me being atheist, as well as a Democrat. I need help on this, before either a) I snap and fight back or b) They start to get serious.

What can I do? What are your thoughts?
Move

Conform to their society.

What he said.

Ruffy is always right....except when he drinks, then he just gets nasty and smelly.

If you're too young to move out of your parents house, seek out your local police, even if they disagree with your views, your constitutional rights trump their views when it comes to what is acceptable. In fact, views shouldn't even come into play if you're being threatened. Threats are a crime and actionable in the eyes of the law.

You may also wish to consult your local ACLU chapter for help; they should be able to help you. They should be able to find your a lawyer to help you in securing your rights as an American citizen, including the right to not be persecuted for your beliefs.

Do not fear, you do have legal recourse, and do not think you're alone. You can find help, and you can get the protection you need. No one should be threatened because of their beliefs, whether religious or political.

I'm an Atheist and I understand how you feel, but don't think there is no hope or that you may have to resort to violence. There is legal help for you. The law is on your side, even if the beliefs of the town's folks aren't. They can damn you until they're blue in the face, but if they try to harm you, or even threaten you, they have broken the law.

By persecuting you for your beliefs, they have broken the law. By threatening you with any type of harm is illegal.

You're not powerless. You're just in a bad spot right now, but don't worry, you can make it out.

:) You will make it out fine, just find out what your rights are.

Become a One Man Army. *nod*

threatened? how and with what?

Become a One Man Army. *nod*

Atheist jihad?

Atheist jihad?

Why not? Plenty of people here have stated that Atheism is a religion anyways

Alright. I live in a predominately Republican/VERY devout Christian town (also note that 95% of the townsfolk share that viewpoint) and I am an atheist. About last month I started to get threatened by other kids because they were... unhappy... with me being atheist, as well as a Democrat. I need help on this, before either a) I snap and fight back or b) They start to get serious.

What can I do? What are your thoughts?

Move into the mountains and befriend an orphan bear which you will raise to be your loyal friend and ally. Then live as a poorly understood mountain man, having weekly adventures battling the forces of nature and man's inherent selfshness. *nod*

Even though I personally am a christian,I have some advice for you. Talk to them about tolerance ask them if Jesus was tolerant. If they have a brain and a bible, they'll stop threatning you.

Even though I personally am a Christian,I have some advice for you. Talk to them about tolerance ask them if Jesus was tolerant. If they have a brain and a bible, they'll stop threatning you.

Even though I personally am a Christian,I have some advice for you. Talk to them about tolerance ask them if Jesus was tolerant. If they have a brain and a bible, they'll stop threatning you.

Learn from your mistake and do not bother people with your personal opinions and beliefs.

Voicing unpopular beliefs while however allowed, is rarely advised.

What possessed you to endanger yourself so?

Alright. I live in a predominately Republican/VERY devout Christian town (also note that 95% of the townsfolk share that viewpoint) and I am an atheist. About last month I started to get threatened by other kids because they were... unhappy... with me being atheist, as well as a Democrat. I need help on this, before either a) I snap and fight back or b) They start to get serious.

What can I do? What are your thoughts?

You need to quit making shit up. You're pissing me off now...

How did this only start last month?
Go to the police?
Why do I never experience or even witness these amazing Republican/Christian/Demon threat horror tales?

How did this only start last month?
Go to the police?
Why do I never experience or even witness these amazing Republican/Christian/Demon threat horror tales?

Because you're lucky. :) It does suck when it happens.

It's possible it only started last month because C&P had a realisation about his/her beliefs. Or they were previously not sure enough so they kept it to themselves until they were sure.

Learn from your mistake and do not bother people with your personal opinions and beliefs.

Voicing unpopular beliefs while however allowed, is rarely advised.

What possessed you to endanger yourself so?

Oh and what of people who bother him/her with their beliefs? They ought to not do the same. Perhaps it is a two way street.

Why is it ill-advised? America has a clause in their constitution, which allows for freedom of expression and this would truly be an expression of personal belief which does not contravene any other law.

Why should they shut-up? The others are in the wrong by persecuting C&P for his/her beliefs. In fact, threats are the problem here, not the beliefs.

You need to quit making shit up. You're pissing me off now...

You ought to show some level of decorum. C&P is asking for advice. They have every right to and not to be told they're "making shit up". If you cannot offer any constructive advice, perhaps it's better if you simply kept your mouth shut.

what he said.

But what if they are pod people?

WAIT what if you are?

*runs*

Conform to their society.

what he said.

Conforming to their society will not fuel the winds of change nor will it aid in fostering a culture of tolerance and acceptance. It will only show that threats work. Why should he/she give into the threats? It will not help him/her in the long run because it will only serve to perpetuate their misery.

Conform to their society.

what he said.

Move to a big city, say, san fran. The communist gays there will not bother you.

here's a thought.

if they threaten you in person, then respond with
Matthew 7:1
Luke 6:37
John 8:16
1 Corinthians 4:2-5
and the ever popular John 8:7

and if they look at you in confusion, tell them to look it up. ;)

Oh and thank them for the threats, they really helped make up your mind as to the loving care others preach about God and those who follow Him.

Move to a big city, say, san fran. The communist gays there will not bother you.

That fails to address the problem, which is the threats. Just because the one person has moved, doesn't mean that it will for others. It will simply show the mob that threats work and the cycle will continue.

If you're too young to move out of your parents house, seek out your local police, even if they disagree with your views, your constitutional rights trump their views when it comes to what is acceptable. In fact, views shouldn't even come into play if you're being threatened. Threats are a crime and actionable in the eyes of the law.

You may also wish to consult your local ACLU chapter for help; they should be able to help you. They should be able to find your a lawyer to help you in securing your rights as an American citizen, including the right to not be persecuted for your beliefs.

Do not fear, you do have legal recourse, and do not think you're alone. You can find help, and you can get the protection you need. No one should be threatened because of their beliefs, whether religious or political.

I'm an Atheist and I understand how you feel, but don't think there is no hope or that you may have to resort to violence. There is legal help for you. The law is on your side, even if the beliefs of the town's folks aren't. They can damn you until they're blue in the face, but if they try to harm you, or even threaten you, they have broken the law.

By persecuting you for your beliefs, they have broken the law. By threatening you with any type of harm is illegal.

You're not powerless. You're just in a bad spot right now, but don't worry, you can make it out.

:) You will make it out fine, just find out what your rights are.

Bollocks!

What a load of utter wishy washy weak liberal tosh!

Fight the fuckers and fight dirty.

Why the hell do you people think the Dems loose? They do not fight dirty...

pah.

Bollocks!

What a load of utter wishy washy weak liberal tosh!

Fight the fuckers and fight dirty.

Why the hell do you people think the Dems loose? They do not fight dirty...

pah.

Two wrongs do not make a right.

If he responds and fights dirty, the others may not get their just fruits. They will instead see that threatening has few if any repercussions compared to the reaction that came from the persecuted.

If you're too young to move out of your parents house, seek out your local police, even if they disagree with your views, your constitutional rights trump their views when it comes to what is acceptable. In fact, views shouldn't even come into play if you're being threatened. Threats are a crime and actionable in the eyes of the law.

I agree that talking to the police would be a good move, but if the police officers are like the rest of the population, it might not help. In some places in America, outright discrimination, even from law enforcement, is still tolerated, even if it is technically illegal. Luckily, it's not really too common, but if the situation comes up, then...

You may also wish to consult your local ACLU chapter for help; they should be able to help you. They should be able to find your a lawyer to help you in securing your rights as an American citizen, including the right to not be persecuted for your beliefs.

would be an especially good idea. Though it certainly would be wise either way.


Do not fear, you do have legal recourse, and do not think you're alone. You can find help, and you can get the protection you need. No one should be threatened because of their beliefs, whether religious or political.

I'm an Atheist and I understand how you feel, but don't think there is no hope or that you may have to resort to violence. There is legal help for you. The law is on your side, even if the beliefs of the town's folks aren't. They can damn you until they're blue in the face, but if they try to harm you, or even threaten you, they have broken the law.

By persecuting you for your beliefs, they have broken the law. By threatening you with any type of harm is illegal.

You're not powerless. You're just in a bad spot right now, but don't worry, you can make it out.

:) You will make it out fine, just find out what your rights are.

Amen!(:p) Atheism really needs a mass "coming out," the way homosexuality has had. If more and more of us are in the open, fewer people will be scared into lying about their (lack of) beliefs. If we get enough people willing to take the plunge, we may hit a critical mass where suddenly, masses of people start revealing themselves in public.

Whatever you do, don't listen to bigots like Kontor, or even any well-meaning people who advise you to just move and run away from the problem. If you do that, then that's a victory for intolerance and bigotry.

Every second that you stay, every minute that you do not give in, and every day that you do not surrender sends a clear signal to the rest of the world that we will not give up our rights just because we don't believe in any deity, we will not be marginalized, and that we will never ever be treated like second-class citizens-- whether by law or social custom-- again. We will not apologize for our unbelief. Stand up, be proud, and bravely face the horizon, knowing that beyond it is a world of beauty and wonder that no believer has any right to deny you.

If you stand, others will stand with you, and I am proud to be one of them. :)

Conform to their society.

Best thing you can do. It might go against the grain, and might seem hypocritical, but ultimately you've only got to sit it out until you're 16/18. Life will be much easier, and, I imagine you'll have much better prospects, if you compromise for a year or so and have an easier life.

Alright. I live in a predominately Republican/VERY devout Christian town (also note that 95% of the townsfolk share that viewpoint) and I am an atheist. About last month I started to get threatened by other kids because they were... unhappy... with me being atheist, as well as a Democrat. I need help on this, before either a) I snap and fight back or b) They start to get serious.

What can I do? What are your thoughts?

I'd personally ask if they wanted to duel.

here's a thought.

if they threaten you in person, then respond with
Matthew 7:1
Luke 6:37
John 8:16
1 Corinthians 4:2-5
and the ever popular John 8:7

and if they look at you in confusion, tell them to look it up. ;)

Oh and thank them for the threats, they really helped make up your mind as to the loving care others preach about God and those who follow Him.

Yeah, that'll be sure not to get you beaten up.

Conforming to their society will not fuel the winds of change nor will it aid in fostering a culture of tolerance and acceptance. It will only show that threats work. Why should he/she give into the threats? It will not help him/her in the long run because it will only serve to perpetuate their misery.

but threats do work.

Two wrongs do not make a right.

If he responds and fights dirty, the others may not get their just fruits. They will instead see that threatening has few if any repercussions compared to the reaction that came from the persecuted.

Bollocks. Get back into meat space. Its not a nice place.

Amen!(:p) Atheism really needs a mass "coming out," the way homosexuality has had. If more and more of us are in the open, fewer people will be scared into lying about their (lack of) beliefs. If we get enough people willing to take the plunge, we may hit a critical mass where suddenly, masses of people start revealing themselves in public.

Even when the homosexuals had their "coming out", there were plenty of heterosexuals who stood by them, which helped in the development and securing of their rights. Likewise, there will be people of belief who will stand by those who lack belief when the time comes because there are people of belief who are tolerant.

Whatever you do, don't listen to bigots like Kontor, or even any well-meaning people who advise you to just move and run away from the problem. If you do that, then that's a victory for intolerance and bigotry.

QFT.

If you stand, others will stand with you, and I am proud to be one of them. :)

Same here. :) Those who stand will not just be lacking belief but those with belief who are for tolerance and acceptance.

http://img253.imageshack.us/img253/475/atheistvb0.jpg
They're watching you.

If God is willing to prevent evil but not able then he is not omnipotent.
If he is able but not willing then he is malevolent.
If he is both able and willing then why is there evil?
If he is neither able nor willing then why call him God?

How many people did God kill in the Bible? The count varies between 2,038,344 and 2,270,971 not counting such acts as the 10 plagues and others where no official number was provided which can bring the total up to 39.2 million by some estimates. Satan killed 10 people in Job with the help of God as part of a bet with God.

Who's more evil?

Even when the homosexuals had their "coming out", there were plenty of heterosexuals who stood by them, which helped in the development and securing of their rights. Likewise, there will be people of belief who will stand by those who lack belief when the time comes because there are people of belief who are tolerant.



QFT.



Same here. :) Those who stand will not just be lacking belief but those with belief who are for tolerance and acceptance.

Oh, certainly there'll be plenty of religious people with us, but first we need to get enough atheists to come out, or there simply won't be an atheist cause for the pro-tolerance religious folks to support.

Oh, certainly there'll be plenty of religious people with us, but first we need to get enough atheists to come out, or there simply won't be an atheist cause for the pro-tolerance religious folks to support.

I don't see how people could not be at least pro-tolerance. That doesn't even mean they have to like atheists, just that they have to not actively do anything to hinder them.(such as death threats)

I'm religious, so I can support the atheist shindig here on NSG where nothing matters anyhow.
Or in the realm of reality...but I'm too lazy.

How many people did God kill in the Bible? The count varies between 2,038,344 and 2,270,971 not counting such acts as the 10 plagues and others where no official number was provided which can bring the total up to 39.2 million by some estimates. Satan killed 10 people in Job with the help of God as part of a bet with God.

Who's more evil?

:eek:

Apparently, As I Lay Dying eviler than every other death metal band combined.

http://img253.imageshack.us/img253/475/atheistvb0.jpg
They're watching you.

If God is willing to prevent evil but not able then he is not omnipotent.
If he is able but not willing then he is malevolent.
If he is both able and willing then why is there evil?
If he is neither able nor willing then why call him God?

How many people did God kill in the Bible? The count varies between 2,038,344 and 2,270,971 not counting such acts as the 10 plagues and others where no official number was provided which can bring the total up to 39.2 million by some estimates. Satan killed 10 people in Job with the help of God as part of a bet with God.

Who's more evil?

Hey we have a satanist here, I guess they arnt so rare.

Hey we have a satanist here, I guess they arnt so rare.

Lolwhut?

How can you tell?
You need to see the reds of their beady little eyes in order to know for sure..I doubt the happiness they leech off you is possible through the internet either.

I don't see how people could not be at least pro-tolerance. That doesn't even mean they have to like atheists, just that they have to not actively do anything to hinder them.(such as death threats)

I'm religious, so I can support the atheist shindig here on NSG where nothing matters anyhow.
Or in the realm of reality...but I'm too lazy.
It's quite easy if you(you general, not specific) take your Holy Book seriously and literally, and it says that nonbelievers deserve death. (Even if it later contradicts itself and says that they actually don't, God was only kidding.)
Hey we have a satanist here, I guess they arnt so rare.

Yeah, anybody who says that God as depicted in the Bible is a cruel tyrant must be a satanist. :rolleyes:

Yeah, that'll be sure not to get you beaten up.

if they physically attack you, then you can have them arrested, and if the law does not comply? then the media gets a news story...

Oh come on, you can't feel reality warping around all that evilness? Your satanist-sense not strong these days? Surely you need to consult with the nearest medium, and fast, to see if you can exorcise your machine, now.

*stands up and tries to leave*
Yessir!
*wires wrap around legs*
....
*is dragged back to PC screaming and forced to watch 74 hours of satan..eating..a baby jesus bagel*
nooooooooooooooo!!
save yourselves!

Lolwhut?

How can you tell?
You need to see the reds of their beady little eyes in order to know for sure..I doubt the happiness they leech off you is possible through the internet either.

Oh come on, you can't feel reality warping around all that evilness? Your satanist-sense not strong these days? Surely you need to consult with the nearest medium, and fast, to see if you can exorcise your machine, now.

I don't see how people could not be at least pro-tolerance. That doesn't even mean they have to like atheists, just that they have to not actively do anything to hinder them.(such as death threats) because what makes the news? "Athies beat up by religious fanatics" or "Athiest walks past Religious group and absolutely nothing happens"

convert to witchcraft and cast spells upon them

here's a thought.

if they threaten you in person, then respond with
Matthew 7:1
Luke 6:37
John 8:16
1 Corinthians 4:2-5
and the ever popular John 8:7

and if they look at you in confusion, tell them to look it up. ;)

Yeah, that'll be sure not to get you beaten up.

I think the point of the references to the preciding lines from the
Bible suggests compassion/tolarance for others. If they don't know said lines from the Bible, look it up. But, if they still don't get why their threats are unacecptable, then they're not really following Jesus's teachings but being thick-headed bigots instead. :headbang: Besides, what this world needs is more love and less hate. :cool: Chill dude! :D

Besides, if a hell does exist, just because one person goes there doesn't mean the rest of humanity does as well. So why should they care? They made their decicion. Still, even if I go to hell, I'll fight to make it better!! :mp5:

-Leader of Shimokorihi

Is it really that weird to be atheist in america? Atheist/agnostic is like the default stance here, when you're young and religious (most old people are somewhat religious, but mostly because their used to it and because mas gives them an opportunity to meet each other and possibly also because they're somewhat afraid of dying) most people just look crazy at you and go on with their lives. It intrigues me how much time people in america spend talking about religion (or is that only on the internets, my main source on america & religion)

America is like 2% Atheist.

Build a trebuchet and launch bibles at them.

Tell them Jesus was a communist, pm me for biblical quotes to prove this. That should annoy them significantly.

Oh, certainly there'll be plenty of religious people with us, but first we need to get enough atheists to come out, or there simply won't be an atheist cause for the pro-tolerance religious folks to support.

Is it really that weird to be atheist in america? Atheist/agnostic is like the default stance here, when you're young and religious (most old people are somewhat religious, but mostly because their used to it and because mas gives them an opportunity to meet each other and possibly also because they're somewhat afraid of dying) most people just look crazy at you and go on with their lives. It intrigues me how much time people in america spend talking about religion (or is that only on the internets, my main source on america & religion)

here's a thought.

if they threaten you in person, then respond with
Matthew 7:1
Luke 6:37
John 8:16
1 Corinthians 4:2-5
and the ever popular John 8:7

and if they look at you in confusion, tell them to look it up. ;)



I think the point of the references to the preciding lines from the
Bible suggests compassion/tolarance for others. If they don't know said lines from the Bible, look it up. But, if they still don't get why their threats are unacecptable, then they're not really following Jesus's teachings but being thick-headed bigots instead. :headbang: Besides, what this world needs is more love and less hate. :cool: Chill dude! :D

-Leader of Shimokorihi
Close, all those talk about NOT judging others lest they be judged themselves. and John 8:7 is the popular "Let he that is among you that is without sin, cast the first stone." :cool:

America is like 2% Atheist.

wow, I thought it was something like 40%, but apparently you're quite right (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Demographics_of_atheism#North_America). I think people here are mainly indifferent to it, as long as it doesn't influence them to much.

Move into the mountains and befriend an orphan bear which you will raise to be your loyal friend and ally. Then live as a poorly understood mountain man, having weekly adventures battling the forces of nature and man's inherent selfshness. *nod*

Zarasthustra, always with the good advice!

Tell them Jesus was a communist, pm me for biblical quotes to prove this. That should annoy them significantly.

And if they're still keeping their cool, point out that he was gay, too!

Then, when they've beaten you to a pulp, make your bid for moral superiority: "you Christians can't take a joke." :rolleyes:

Is it really that weird to be atheist in america? Atheist/agnostic is like the default stance here, when you're young and religious (most old people are somewhat religious, but mostly because their used to it and because mas gives them an opportunity to meet each other and possibly also because they're somewhat afraid of dying) most people just look crazy at you and go on with their lives. It intrigues me how much time people in america spend talking about religion (or is that only on the internets, my main source on america & religion)

Yes, it really is. Atheists are the most distrusted minority in the country, in fact-- it's still quite socially acceptable to be bigoted against us and even discriminate against us in many areas.

Close, all those talk about NOT judging others lest they be judged themselves. and John 8:7 is the popular "Let he that is among you that is without sin, cast the first stone." :cool:

See, the problem with that is that these bullies might not have really taken the Bible to heart. The might, for instance, be unaware that they have ever sinned themselves, might just think that bit doesn't apply to them. (Original Sin is across Christian denominations, right? Not just a Catholic thing?)

So, inviting them to stone you might be a tactical mistake.

wow, I thought it was something like 40%, but apparently you're quite right (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Demographics_of_atheism#North_America). I think people here are mainly indifferent to it, as long as it doesn't influence them to much.

That's why you'll note no presidential candidate is admitting they don't believe in god. If they admitted that kind of thing, they might as well have said "I eat puppies for fun. Even when I'm not hungry."

See, the problem with that is that these bullies might not have really taken the Bible to heart. The might, for instance, be unaware that they have ever sinned themselves, might just think that bit doesn't apply to them. (Original Sin is across Christian denominations, right? Not just a Catholic thing?)

So, inviting them to stone you might be a tactical mistake.

then you can sue them on grounds of personal injury and turn your 'tactical mistake' into their Financial Mistake.

because they will then have to prove their sinless lives and that is something no one can do.

Alright. I live in a predominately Republican/VERY devout Christian town (also note that 95% of the townsfolk share that viewpoint) and I am an atheist. About last month I started to get threatened by other kids because they were... unhappy... with me being atheist, as well as a Democrat. I need help on this, before either a) I snap and fight back or b) They start to get serious.

What can I do? What are your thoughts?

Tell your parents. If that doesn't help,
Tell your principal. If things continue to escalate,
Tell the cops.

Move into the mountains and befriend an orphan bear which you will raise to be your loyal friend and ally. Then live as a poorly understood mountain man, having weekly adventures battling the forces of nature and man's inherent selfshness. *nod*

Grizzly Adams?

wow, I thought it was something like 40%, but apparently you're quite right (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Demographics_of_atheism#North_America). I think people here are mainly indifferent to it, as long as it doesn't influence them to much.

The US, to the best of my knowledge, is like 10% atheist or something, including agnostics and the like. 75-85% claim to be Christians, with the other religions making up the remainder. However, only something like 55% of Americans consider themselves committed to religion. These are at least the statistics I got taught in class...

Mistake, because in all likelihood, the cops and the principal are also anti-democrat/atheist. I think the best idea is to tone down what you say about your beliefs. Maybe they'll just drop it.

I repeat: no matter what, do not accept marginalization, do not accept discrimination, do not back down. The moment you surrender, intolerance will have won. Do not let bigotry gain another victory; it must be defeated wherever it crops up.

Tell your parents. If that doesn't help,
Tell your principal. If things continue to escalate,
Tell the cops.

Mistake, because in all likelihood, the cops and the principal are also anti-democrat/atheist. I think the best idea is to tone down what you say about your beliefs. Maybe they'll just drop it.

Tell the CIA. It's not like they have anything better to do.

File a lawsuit, restraining order, press assault charges...

In response to OP:

Just keep it all to yourself. Don't mention it - don't let anyone know unless neccessary. There is nothing you, a lone individual, can do to change a society unless you are willing to pay for it by escalating the issue. And it isn't worth it - don't waste anything on these morons. Try to endure the best you can and get the hell out of there when you get a good opportunity - in the meantime, take measures to protect yourself if things remain ugly or seem to be getting worse.

A large portion of people are of the kind that hate or at least strongly despise anyone that happens not to fit their strongest values. Going somewhere where such people have no reason to hate you is the only constructive long-term solution if you want the freedom to express yourself.

Mistake, because in all likelihood, the cops and the principal are also anti-democrat/atheist.

Really? Threats and Assault and battery are now legal? My, my, my, what the ACLU could do with that.

Or are you also of the, "Just don't tell anyone your boyfriend forced you to have sex, it will just ruin your life," school?

Alright. I live in a predominately Republican/VERY devout Christian town (also note that 95% of the townsfolk share that viewpoint) and I am an atheist. About last month I started to get threatened by other kids because they were... unhappy... with me being atheist, as well as a Democrat. I need help on this, before either a) I snap and fight back or b) They start to get serious.

What can I do? What are your thoughts?

You say "other kids" and this is a pretty clear hint that you are somewhere in your early-to-middle teens. I had a look at your posting history, it goes back to July and you rarely post more than once to a thread ... but it's consistent enough that I won't accuse you of just playing around here.

Now, I was brought up as a polite atheist and I never had any trouble about it at school. It was a pretty good school, though I didn't realize it at the time. But my younger sister was briefly converted in a rash of piousness which swept her year (the Billy Graham Crusade) and I got a pretty good look at the groupthink of it.

I found it pretty damn silly, I must say. But the thing is, they were mostly kids younger than me and seemed pretty silly whatever they were doing, and they weren't 85% of my whole community. That could truly be pretty scarey.

So here's what I think. I think these kids who are 'threatening' you are succumbing to the adolescent urge to conform within their generation. Leaving childhood is a pretty scarey thing, there's a lot of world out there and a lot of things one doesn't know yet, and adolescents want to find something that is theirs, of their generation.

Now, that's a lot of fun if it's obscure new music or funny clothes, experimenting with sex and whacky speculation, but within what sounds like a tightarse hellhole of a town where so much is forbidden on religious principles (and I'm guessing, the unknown treated with foreboding) they're going to find it really hard to really distinguish themselves from how they were as kids. There's going to be frustration and sudden bursts of extremism, and you need to be very careful.

You're actually lucky not to be bound by allegience to a 85% mainstream. Some of those other kids will break free too, and you set them a great example if you can safely negotiate your way to the independence of your twenties.

So, moving on ... so long as you are not a christian and you're not a republican, you're going to be an outsider for something. I'm guessing that it would be safer to be a Democrat of no known religion than to be an Atheist who doesn't care about politics. Now, I'm not saying you have to renounce anything or pretend to be converted, but I'd suggest standing up for your politics primarily.
These bullies you complain of might not be able to wrap their heads around Atheism (it's a challenge to a whole moral order they may even be rebelling against, but can't just forget) but surely with the long history of the Democrats and Republicans they can more easily accept the existence of people slightly but reliably to the left of them politically.

Again, this discourse is offered with a disclaimer: I don't live in the US, I didn't grow up in a small town, and I went to a tolerant public school. No-one ever got beaten up in my neighbourhood for being Asian or Italian, or being gay, or for any religious or political belief. I got insulted and challenged to fights, I got called names (well, I was thumping the tub for the USSR, and the Cold War was still quite serious) but the only kid who ever threatened me I dragged to a teacher and challenged to repeat his words. He wouldn't, and could barely meet my eye thereafter.

Kyrozerkia's early post is very sound advice, within the narrow limits of how much information you have provided about your problem.

Katganistan makes the only qualification I would make: make sure your parents (or whoever you have) knows about this, if it's happening in school, makes sure the teachers know about it (tell the deputy head for instance, not your lovey-dovey art teacher).

If it does come to making a complaint to police, take an adult with you. Shouldn't be that way, but police often would rather think it's the school's problem or the parent's problem, and they'll take you more seriously and respect your rights more if you have a sensible adult with you.

You would get better advice is the people who have been in your situation (USians, small towners, overt atheists which I am not) knew a bit more about the circumstances.

I'd ask, for instance: how many kids have personally threatened you? Are they doing that in groups, or is it a campaign of whispers? Have you got friends who have the same trouble? Does it come up in the course of a 'debate' about religion or politics, or is it out of the blue? Do they call you other names like "faggot" and such?

And finally, do you think they honestly believe they can convert you with threats? Or are they just trying to shut you up?

I understand you don't want to give a lot of details, like the name of your town.

so I'm the only person here who reads some vulnerable kid instead of the Atheist hero who will soon unite us all? (as in if he was hardcore Christian republican, he would be bullied for having ginger hair)

I say fight dirty, teachers are useless as is the law (police in schools!?) go for the nackers bite noses off and then actually be a normal kid instead of some runty geek who doesn't stick up for himself

I wish we knew more about the OP's plight, given that next to no information was provided to us, and what is in the OP is likely an over exaggeration of the demographics of his hometown.

so I'm the only person here who reads some vulnerable kid instead of the Atheist hero who will soon unite us all? (as in if he was hardcore Christian republican, he would be bullied for having ginger hair)

Vulnerable or not, there is no reason to be threatened for one's beliefs and not get help.

Ginger (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ginger)?
As in this sort of tannish/white/sandy colour?

As someone with reddish hair, I never understood this ginger thing.

If women would actually respect their superiors, that would never be an issue.
/sarcasminwhitetextcauseIthinkitsobvious,butjustincase

If you're talking about the parts of a woman I think you're talking about ... I respect them. I think women should too!
Sarcasm is a hostile, it is assumed to be directed to the person you are talking to. And your comment won't fit the mold of "irony."

If you're talking about the parts of a woman I think you're talking about ... I respect them. I think women should too!
Sarcasm is a hostile, it is assumed to be directed to the person you are talking to. And your comment won't fit the mold of "irony."

:p Very true.
In which case I am deleting that since the hostile sarcasm was not directed to Katganistan there...woops...:eek:

so I'm the only person here who reads some vulnerable kid instead of the Atheist hero who will soon unite us all? (as in if he was hardcore Christian republican, he would be bullied for having ginger hair)

I say fight dirty, teachers are useless as is the law (police in schools!?) go for the nackers bite noses off and then actually be a normal kid instead of some runty geek who doesn't stick up for himself

I was a runty geek who stood up for himself with his brain and a firm knowledge of his rights. When they swing at you is when you fight back physically, anything else is aggression.

If you can secure your rights without either risking or inflicting disfigurement or brain damage ... oh, never mind. Go back to the cave :p

here's a thought.

if they threaten you in person, then respond with
Matthew 7:1
Luke 6:37
John 8:16
1 Corinthians 4:2-5
and the ever popular John 8:7

and if they look at you in confusion, tell them to look it up. ;)

Oh and thank them for the threats, they really helped make up your mind as to the loving care others preach about God and those who follow Him.


Lisa: Stop! Doesn't the Bible say "Judge not, lest ye be judged?"
[The townspeople mutter agreement.]
Chief Wiggum: The Bible says a lot of things. Shove her!!!
:D
http://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/The_Simpsons#Easy-Bake_Coven

Thanks a lot for your help. I'll do my best to keep it cool. As of right now I don't want to inform the police, but if it continues I definately will.

I only worry because while I'm normally nice, my temper is analogous to a two-inch long fuse attached to a nuke. If they were to hit a nerve with an insult, or were to inflict a not-crippling hit, chances are I'd go all :upyours: on them, followed by :mp5:.

Hopefully the suggestions I've been receiving from you guys will help out a lot.

Thanks.

"Maybe you should just forgive me..." Was the line I delivered to my dad when he told me how sickened he was that not only would I never return to church, I also I hated his god.

Worship fucking satan, mate. I don't believe there's a kind and loving god out there, helping us out. Not enough wonderful things happen in the world. But heinous acts of evil and despicable goings-on are so common as to be almost unremarkable anymore. Let's join the winning team and mark the occasion by sacrificing a goat.

And later? Someone's firstborn. Not mine, but someone's.

teachers are useless as is the law

And get himself suspended, or beaten up by a group of them? good call.[/sarcasm]

My principal had a goon who thought he could get away with groping a girl who was yelling at him to stop taken out of the building in handcuffs, stuffed into a patrol car, and taken to the police station.

Sounds very useless to me.

Click Stand;13245722']Tell the CIA. It's not like they have anything better to do.

Is something burning?

I smell something reminiscent of bacon...

Call child protective services or bawl to your parents.

Alright. I live in a predominately Republican/VERY devout Christian town (also note that 95% of the townsfolk share that viewpoint) and I am an atheist. About last month I started to get threatened by other kids because they were... unhappy... with me being atheist, as well as a Democrat. I need help on this, before either a) I snap and fight back or b) They start to get serious.

What can I do? What are your thoughts?

listen to katganistan. she knows what she is talking about.

your best allies are your parents. talk to them and let them take it from there.

Vulnerable or not, there is no reason to be threatened for one's beliefs and not get help.

standing on your own two feet is also good

Ginger (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ginger)?
As in this sort of tannish/white/sandy colour?

http://youtube.com/watch?v=EcJeyN5CdCY

I was a runty geek who stood up for himself with his brain and a firm knowledge of his rights. When they swing at you is when you fight back physically, anything else is aggression.

how does one stand on a brain :confused:

And get himself suspended, or beaten up by a group of them? good call.[/sarcasm]

yes?

My principal had a goon who thought he could get away with groping a girl who was yelling at him to stop taken out of the building in handcuffs, stuffed into a patrol car, and taken to the police station.

Sounds very useless to me.

erm...kay the fact that somehow this popped up says more about you than it does about your arguments, his bullies aren't grabbing his tits

Move into the mountains and befriend an orphan bear which you will raise to be your loyal friend and ally. Then live as a poorly understood mountain man, having weekly adventures battling the forces of nature and man's inherent selfshness. *nod*

If the bear is your ally, couldn't you sic him on the kids?

No wait! I have a better idea. Befriend the bear, then train him under LG's tutelage! Fear the pie wielding clown bear!

Question for OP: Did you do anything to provoke them? Say erm, flaunting your beliefs, trying to shove it down their throats, and shouting at them for beliving in God? If not then they are bastards.

@ Liz: No, I didn't do anything to provoke it. Religion somehow came up about a year ago, someone asked what I was, and about a month ago they started threatening me.

@ Call to power: Hey, looks like I didn't have to explain I was a guy.

erm...kay the fact that somehow this popped up says more about you than it does about your arguments, his bullies aren't grabbing his tits

erm, kay, the fact that your first and only response is childish and likely to get him deeper into trouble says more about you than you'll ever know.

They are threatening him with assault. It's a crime.
That yutz assaulted the girl. It's a crime.

Is that simple enough for you, or do we need to commission a comic book?

Really? Threats and Assault and battery are now legal? My, my, my, what the ACLU could do with that.

Or are you also of the, "Just don't tell anyone your boyfriend forced you to have sex, it will just ruin your life," school?

Ok, she has two options:

Try to hide and stay safe from the powers-that-be.

--OR--

Fight the fight for her beliefs and get all the satisfaction that comes with that.

Each course of action has its own unique advantages and disadvantages. She'll have to figure out how strong her beliefs are and the risks of upsetting the order. Do what you will.

My advice, kill yourself lol.

I can help but I won't.

...

I would consider deleting that post.

Thanks a lot for your help. I'll do my best to keep it cool. As of right now I don't want to inform the police, but if it continues I definately will.

I only worry because while I'm normally nice, my temper is analogous to a two-inch long fuse attached to a nuke. If they were to hit a nerve with an insult, or were to inflict a not-crippling hit, chances are I'd go all :upyours: on them, followed by :mp5:.

Hopefully the suggestions I've been receiving from you guys will help out a lot.

Thanks.

Just remember that you do have rights, and one of those many inalienable rights includes the right to not be threatened. Just don't let it get under your skin before you can get help. Don't sink to their level but don't give in either. Stand strong and find out what recourse you have. You don't have to take any bullshit from anyone.

To all those who are telling him to conform, we have a term for that. That is called COWERDICE. You don't lie down and let bigots win.

To all those who are telling him to conform, we have a term for that. That is called COWERDICE. You don't lie down and let bigots win.

Caps =/= truth.
It is called 'cowardice' if anything.

Caps =/= truth.
It is called 'cowardice' if anything.

The Chroniclers, please record that Bann-ed speaks for me in this instance.

Twerp.

EDIT: Sorry about that. I was drunk and rambunctious.

My advice, kill yourself lol.

I can help but I won't.

Advice: so easy to give, so hard to recieve.
Help: so easy to give, so hard to recieve.

Content of your post: nil.

Advice: so easy to give, so hard to recieve.
Help: so easy to give, so hard to recieve.

Content of your post: nil.

For me help is harder to give than to recieve.
Mainly.

The Chroniclers, please record that Bann-ed speaks for me in this instance.

Twerp.

I'm sorry, I didn't realize I was being an ass for accidently misspelling cowardice. You are a big man for pointing out a minor spelling error.

I'm sorry, I didn't realize I was being an ass for accidently misspelling cowardice. You are a big man for pointing out a minor spelling error.

First off, it was a major spelling error due to the caps lock.
Secondly, you can't blame Nobel Hobos for pointing it out, because he didn't. No matter how much he wants credit for it. :p

First off, it was a major spelling error due to the caps lock.
Secondly, you can't blame Nobel Hobos for pointing it out, because he didn't. No matter how much he wants credit for it. :p

Yeah, you pointed it out, you just weren't as much of an ass about it. What a warm welcome when my post's actual content is ignored in favor of pointing out spelling errors.

Just remember that you do have rights, and one of those many inalienable rights includes the right to not be threatened. Just don't let it get under your skin before you can get help. Don't sink to their level but don't give in either. Stand strong and find out what recourse you have.

It's a fine line between assertiveness and aggression.
Yes to free speech, even in school, an unfree environment.
No to physically assaulting people for threatening you.

I agree with you, and I'll ask if you agree with me?

You don't have to take any bullshit from anyone.

This is very ambiguous.
Yes, you have the right to contradict bullshit you hear.
No, you can't physically shut people up for talking bullshit.

A threat of violence is not bullshit. "I'm going to kill you someday" may be untrue, and in a sense bullshit, but it is a direct threat (threat/promise, one's word is one's bond, I could have a joke here) ... and those words if properly witnessed are criminal. Saying that is a crime.

Do you agree with me?

For me help is harder to give than to recieve.
Mainly.

Roll with the punches. Try not to hurt anyone. *nod*

Roll with the punches. Try not to hurt anyone. *nod*

Will do, Coach. :)

I'm sorry, I didn't realize I was being an ass for accidently misspelling cowardice. You are a big man for pointing out a minor spelling error.

I'm not a big man. Look up the thread, I'm a weedy nerd!

Do you really want a reply to your post?

I'm not a big man. Look up the thread, I'm a weedy nerd!

Do you really want a reply to your post?


I was just pointing out that lying down and taking it wouldn't solve anything. I guess I didn't want a reply to that post.

As for advice (to the original poster), I advise contacting the police or the school, or at least talking to your parents. I'm guessing this is what most others would reccomend.

I have an unfortunately large amount of experience with this subject. I was one of the outcasts in school myself. From personal experience I can tell you that the principals, teachers, especially the school board WILL NOT HELP! It will actually make the problem worse as it will be painting a target on your back. Also the staff may see YOU as the problem. If your parents are like mine were they will be generally useless but you should give a shot anyway. If that doesn't work(and probably won't) You should just go over everyones head. Police, ACLU, local media....And whatever you do STAY AWAY from therapists or school councilors. They only ever see you as the problem never the other children as is the case. Or if you are physcially inclined contradict their bullshit by reciting a few bible passages where jesus advocated: Slavery(Matthew 18:23-35), Self mutilation(Matthew 18:8-9), was a racist and would not help non-jews unless they degraded themsleves first(Matthew 15:22-28), Preached abusive policies like turn the other cheek(every christian seems to know this one) and he made it his personal mission to drive apart families(matthew 10:34-36). He even killed a tree because it wouldn't give him fruit off season and turned his anger into a lesson on faith(matthew 21:18-22). Hardly the actions of a gentle savior. Throw these facts in their faces and a few of them might be inclined to throw the first punch....the rest is up to you :D

I was just pointing out that lying down and taking it wouldn't solve anything.

Hmm.
"He who fights and runs away, lives to fight another day."

If you look at the people who wield lots of power in our (current) world, it's mostly old people, right? Well, old men to be blunt.

I'm getting to the point. Yes, a person's character is formed early in their life, and their character is formed by challenges and difficulties more than by opportunities and happy luck.

The law is neither of those. The law says "you have rights, and these will be enforced, even at the cost of others."

Yes, I'm getting to the point. By invoking the law on your "peer group" you are saying "just you wait and see." You are saying "OK, I'm weedy and outnumbered, but I'm calling for the ref. When we're adults, then I'll fight you."

It doesn't demean a young person to call on their human rights. It isn't "telling", it isn't "running to mommy." Conversely, that's an option which bullies are quite happy to take, when they try to beat you up but you pull some fu moves on them and break one of their bones. Oh yeah, then we find out where the power really lies, it lies with their parents, who brought their kids up to win no matter what. That's when you and your family find out who their parents really are.

Witnesses. Accurate testimony. Forensics in the widest sense. These protect you until you are adult, and the content of your character has had time to tell, and the power of adulthood allows you to show your superiority to the bullies. "Individuality," the qualities of the individual, are not recognized until adulthood (it's unfair) but then they tell tenfold.

Keep your powder dry. Debate to the limit of your strength, test your strenght, practice. But don't for a minute think that what you are in school is some measure of your worth. You can make friends and allies in school, but you can do just fine without them too. Adulthood is ... very big.

Many High-school Heroes find it too damn big. Big fish, small ponds. Like that.

As for advice (to the original poster), I advise contacting the police or the school, or at least talking to your parents. I'm guessing this is what most others would reccomend.

Well, OK. :) I wred Kyrozerkia's advice in post 4 with a sense of "well that's that then" and since then, it's just been an argument on principles.

There is more to add, since CvP has offered more to ... er, work with?

==========

Not to TC: I asked direct questions of CvP, and I hope other posters will bear in mind that it was damn decent for them to re-enter the thread. It was really going off into some abstract stuff ... hard to relate to the initial post, more statements of principle. This is a real person, keep the advice real, huh?

Alright. I live in a predominately Republican/VERY devout Christian town (also note that 95% of the townsfolk share that viewpoint) and I am an atheist. About last month I started to get threatened by other kids because they were... unhappy... with me being atheist, as well as a Democrat. I need help on this, before either a) I snap and fight back or b) They start to get serious.

What can I do? What are your thoughts?

KNEEL BEFORE ZOD!

KNEEL BEFORE ZOD!

DOZER OF EBLE ENK?

Hey, why do I have to "Submit" to damn well use the fire exit?

KNEEL BEFORE ZOD!

*kneels before Zod*

Now ... wtf?

Move to a big city, say, san fran. The communist gays there will not bother you.

lol :p


in response to the OP: move over here to europe. nobody gives a shit about your religion over here (unless you're Muslim... in which case the Daily Mail will hate you and all your kind...)

Find a radioactive animal and become a superhero.

Well, since you live in a right-wing, religious area, the answer becomes obvious:

:sniper:

Either that, or hide in the corner until you can graduate, then get the hell outta town.

Ummm film every altercation and put it on YouTube!!

It's a fine line between assertiveness and aggression.
Yes to free speech, even in school, an unfree environment.
No to physically assaulting people for threatening you.

I agree with you, and I'll ask if you agree with me?

Oh, I thought we were already on the same page, hence my statement about not sinking to their level, meaning do not threaten. :)

Standing strong means not letting them provoke one's self while holding their position stubbornly.

So yes, it looks like we're on the same page, and hence in agreement.

This is very ambiguous.
Yes, you have the right to contradict bullshit you hear.
No, you can't physically shut people up for talking bullshit.

A threat of violence is not bullshit. "I'm going to kill you someday" may be untrue, and in a sense bullshit, but it is a direct threat (threat/promise, one's word is one's bond, I could have a joke here) ... and those words if properly witnessed are criminal. Saying that is a crime.

Do you agree with me?

Yes, "bullshit" is ambiguous, but we were given vague information, and the threats themselves are not bullshit.

I guess I just worded it badly. Perhaps drinking Pepsi and eating Special K together wasn't such a great idea.

Quote bits of the Sermon on the Mount at them. You know, the bits about turning the other cheek, judge not lest ye be judged, all that good stuff. Offer to forgive them their trespasses.

Then, when they continue to be assholes, point out that it looks like they aren't Christians either, so there's no reason why you all shouldn't just be friends.

As Bill Hicks said when a group of Christians threatened to beat him up because they didn't like what he said

"So you guys are Christians huh? So forgive me."

Alright. I live in a predominately Republican/VERY devout Christian town (also note that 95% of the townsfolk share that viewpoint) and I am an atheist. About last month I started to get threatened by other kids because they were... unhappy... with me being atheist, as well as a Democrat. I need help on this, before either a) I snap and fight back or b) They start to get serious.

What can I do? What are your thoughts?

Politely ask them to show you in the Bible where Jesus resorted to threatening Atheists with physical harm, then ask them to show you in the Bible where it says that He was a Republican.

Screw trying to show them that they're not being good christians. They don't care. Call the police and press charges.

Screw trying to show them that they're not being good christians. They don't care. Call the police and press charges.
It's not about showing them they're not good Christians, it's about humiliating them.

The cops will say, "Kids will be kids!" and issue a stern, useless warning. Nothing will change.

It's not about showing them they're not good Christians, it's about humiliating them.
Making the people who are threatening you mad doesn't seem like the best of ideas.

The cops will say, "Kids will be kids!" and issue a stern, useless warning. Nothing will change.

Ah poop :(

Making the people who are threatening you mad doesn't seem like the best of ideas.



Ah poop :(

Ahhh sue them?

Ahhh sue them?

For what? I mean, if the cops don't care then why would a judge?

For what? I mean, if the cops don't care then why would a judge?

I dunno, hurt feelings, loss of confidence, mental torture, fear of living, there are lots of things that the cops don't touch but people bring private suits against others for.

Let the kid be creative, if nowt comes from it, perhaps it will hit the news. Atheist kid sues whole Christian town! Has a nice ring to it.

Making the people who are threatening you mad doesn't seem like the best of ideas.

Maybe it's because I've always been a very small person, but I tend to accept the fact that when a fight starts I'm going to get my ass kicked. I resign myself to that, and then decide whether I'm going to try to do damage while I'm getting my ass kicked or not. Usually I opt for doing damage.


Ah poop :(
I tend to have zero confidence in the police when it comes to dealing with young people.

It's not about showing them they're not good Christians, it's about humiliating them.

The cops will say, "Kids will be kids!" and issue a stern, useless warning. Nothing will change.

From what I gather in the OP, it seems that they might be teenagers, in which case, the cops may take it seriously.

If not, that's why you need to get the ACLU involved. They are more likely to take the situation seriously, and would be able to convince the police to do the same, especially when a lawyer comes sniffing around, to see who's violating C&P's rights.

Just a thought, how about finding out which churches these people attend then having a polite chat with their priest/pastor/elder(s) about the problem? They might not like the idea of unfavourable publicity resulting from any legal action and may be of considerable assistance.

Alright. I live in a predominately Republican/VERY devout Christian town (also note that 95% of the townsfolk share that viewpoint) and I am an atheist. About last month I started to get threatened by other kids because they were... unhappy... with me being atheist, as well as a Democrat. I need help on this, before either a) I snap and fight back or b) They start to get serious.

What can I do? What are your thoughts?

Conform.

Conform.

Communist

It's not about showing them they're not good Christians, it's about humiliating them.

The cops will say, "Kids will be kids!" and issue a stern, useless warning. Nothing will change.
Indeed. And you know that if it were the other way, and atheists were harassing Christians, they definitely would get involved, because "zOMG chirstens ar bein oppresed!"

Just a thought, how about finding out which churches these people attend then having a polite chat with their priest/pastor/elder(s) about the problem? They might not like the idea of unfavourable publicity resulting from any legal action and may be of considerable assistance.

Unfortunately, I doubt that'll be much help. Try telling your typical member of the clergy that you're an atheist. See how they react.

Communist

LOL... I didn't see that suggestion. Just wanted to make sure all the options were explored.

And get himself suspended, or beaten up by a group of them? good call.[/sarcasm]

My principal had a goon who thought he could get away with groping a girl who was yelling at him to stop taken out of the building in handcuffs, stuffed into a patrol car, and taken to the police station.

Sounds very useless to me.

Kat, I admit not ALL teachers will simply force the kid to take the crap or accept it, but if every (or even most) principal was like yours, the term "bullycide" would not have been created.

Alright. I live in a predominately Republican/VERY devout Christian town (also note that 95% of the townsfolk share that viewpoint) and I am an atheist. About last month I started to get threatened by other kids because they were... unhappy... with me being atheist, as well as a Democrat. I need help on this, before either a) I snap and fight back or b) They start to get serious.

What can I do? What are your thoughts?

Freedom of speech notwithstanding, sometimes it's best to just shut up and keep your opinions to yourself.

You're free to express your opinions without fear of more than a verbal slap here on NS. I suggest that you confine yourself to that and don't give your "peers" any more excuse for stupid behavior than they already have.

I know it rankles, but, it's part of becoming an adult, learning when to speak and when to remain silent.

Freedom of speech notwithstanding, sometimes it's best to just shut up and keep your opinions to yourself.

You're free to express your opinions without fear of more than a verbal slap here on NS. I suggest that you confine yourself to that and don't give your "peers" any more excuse for stupid behavior than they already have.

I know it rankles, but, it's part of becoming an adult, learning when to speak and when to remain silent.

Earlier Post (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=13246182&postcount=82)

ASD, if you check the above link, you'll get a bit of history on this, It seems that the topic came up and CvP was asked and responded. Then came the threats. It seems that CvP didn't just bring it up arbitrarily.

While you're right your last statement, I feel that you're off in your advice a little because the problem is not the views expressed but the threats themselves, which are illegal in the first place, regardless of the beliefs that are expressed.

I know it rankles, but, it's part of becoming an adult, learning when to speak and when to remain silent.

There's a difference between "Aunt Sylvia, your hairdo looks like a can of worms decided to throw a party in your head" and "I don't believe in God".

And get himself suspended, or beaten up by a group of them? good call.[/sarcasm]

My principal had a goon who thought he could get away with groping a girl who was yelling at him to stop taken out of the building in handcuffs, stuffed into a patrol car, and taken to the police station.

Sounds very useless to me.Have you witnessed another teacher been verbally or physically abused by a student? or by a group of students?

Have you witnessed another teacher been verbally or physically abused by a parent?

Do you know any teacher that has left the profession because of the threats and bad feeling about bulling against teachers.
Teachers need to feel safe, I feel some US Principals/Politicians dont what it takes..

Have you witnessed another teacher been verbally or physically abused by a student? or by a group of students?

Have you witnessed another teacher been verbally or physically abused by a parent?

Do you know any teacher that has left the profession because of the threats and bad feeling about bulling against teachers.
Teachers need to feel safe, I feel some Principals/Politicians dont have the balls..

I might be overstepping my boundaries by pointing that out here, but Kat is a teacher. And has been for a long while.

I might be overstepping my boundaries by pointing that out here, but Kat is a teacher. And has been for a long while.Muito Obrigado/thanks, your advice is welcome.

but I know she is a teacher.
she did "teach" me a couple of things before your time at NSG ;)

Muito Obrigado/thanks, your advice is welcome.

but I know she is a teacher.
she tried to "teach" me a couple of things before your time at NSG ;)

Uhm, ok. :)

I side with the perverts that make the threats.

Fixed.

The Republican view is flawed beyond belief, and that you're willing to try and convince an innocent kid to give in to threats just to get another voter tells volumes about you. Be that word our sign of parting.

- SNIP -
Knock it off. That is not at all useful and could be easily taken to be a flamebait because that's exactly what it is. You have failed to offer constructive advice and have instead have chosen to attack CvP's beliefs. CvP is looking for advice on how to deal with threats and you've only prove the intolerance he is experiencing is alive and well. He doesn't need more people persecuting him for his beliefs.

EDIT: Thanks HotRodia. :)

Whould it do if I let them see the other side of me, the side that only comes out if I'm angry (just to scare the crap out of them)? Or should I seek legal action?

Just a thought, how about finding out which churches these people attend then having a polite chat with their priest/pastor/elder(s) about the problem? They might not like the idea of unfavourable publicity resulting from any legal action and may be of considerable assistance.

That's an interesting idea. Probably a long-shot, you'd want to sound out the minister pretty carefully before naming names ... but it could be a very elegant solution.

============

There's a difference between "Aunt Sylvia, your hairdo looks like a can of worms decided to throw a party in your head" and "I don't believe in God".

Oh dear, that's making me laugh again! Fair point, too.

Whould it do if I let them see the other side of me, the side that only comes out if I'm angry (just to scare the crap out of them)? Or should I seek legal action?

Legal action is the way to go. Anger will only make things worse. Anger begets anger and sows the seeds of hostility, making life difficult.

You do not want to let them think they can provoke you. Bullying has different objectives. It can be used to force someone to conform. It can also be used to get a rise out of someone. If you rise, it will only show that Christians are the peaceful ones and that Atheists are angry.

Ahh, alright. I won't let that beast go. ;)

Btw, got your tg. Wasn't intending on conforming, I guess at this point the song "The Pretender" describes what's going on.

Whould it do if I let them see the other side of me, the side that only comes out if I'm angry (just to scare the crap out of them)? Or should I seek legal action?

There's lots of advice in this thread, ultimately its for you to decide.

I get what people are saying about standing up for yourself physically. It shouldn't be necessary to hit people to get their respect, but sadly it is that way for a lot of boys. If you decide to show how dangerous you are, try to make it for something where you're clearly in the right, like they insulted your sister or something.

That said, I'm firmly on the "use your legal rights" side of the advice, and repeat: the first step towards legal action is to tell your parents and/or teachers what's happening.

Just one punch in the head kills a lot of brain-cells, and there's a risk of very serious injury even if that wasn't intended. I don't see why you should have to make such a sacrifice just to get what are YOUR RIGHTS.

Legal action is the way to go. Anger will only make things worse. Anger begets anger and sows the seeds of hostility, making life difficult.

You do not want to let them think they can provoke you. Bullying has different objectives. It can be used to force someone to conform. It can also be used to get a rise out of someone. If you rise, it will only show that Christians are the peaceful ones and that Atheists are angry.2

Piss on that, heres a better reason to not fight them.

Lets say you do, and manage to beat the hell out of one.
20 mins later, he and his four friends show up, and really whip the snot out of you. Now youre in the hospital, all fucked up, and now you have no legal recourse to stand on.

If you fight these guys, no judge will want to hear about any harrassment from you.

Piss on that, heres a better reason to not fight them.

Lets say you do, and manage to beat the hell out of one.
[snipped]

If you fight these guys, no judge will want to hear about any harrassment from you.
actually, if he beats on one, then his friends/family will spin the account as "Christian attacked by Atheist" and definately any complaint by him about harrasement would be scoffed at.

actually, if he beats on one, then his friends/family will spin the account as "Christian attacked by Atheist" and definately any complaint by him about harrasement would be scoffed at.

Thats very likely as well.
We all know how they loved to be martyred.

Conform to their society.

Agreed

Counting how many people tell me to conform

Count is currently at: 18

:headbang:

Agreed

Well, at what point do you say "there are just too many of them, I gotta keep my head down"? 99%? 85%? 50%?

Or can one bully compel a whole town to "conform"?

Counting how many people tell me to conform

Count is currently at: 18

:headbang:

Ignore every one of them.

Believe what your gut tells you to.

Well, at what point do you say "there are just too many of them, I gotta keep my head down"? 99%? 85%? 50%?

Or can one bully compel a whole town to "conform"?

I would probably say about 80% or greater. Not being funny, I would not exactly tell the whole of Otara that I am a National Party supporter, and neither would I stand in the middle of Remuera and extol the virtues of the Labour Party. Nor would I stand in the middle of California and say that Bush is the greatest president alive; and nor would I stand in the middle of Texas and say that Bush is the worst sonofabitch alive. You have to be sensible at times.

Counting how many people tell me to conform

Count is currently at: 18


Well, if you're taking advice by a head-count, I guess that's what you have to do. :(

I'm not sure you should take IL Ruffino too seriously. He's been trolling out loud recently.

*takes out an old acoustic guitar, and starts playing a metal version of Kenny Rogers' The Gambler*

You got to know when to hold em..
Know when to fold em.
Know when to walk away, and know when to run.
You never count your money, when youre sittin' at the table, there'll be, time enough for countin', when the dealings done...

I would probably say about 80% or greater. Not being funny, I would not exactly tell the whole of Otara that I am a National Party supporter, and neither would I stand in the middle of Remuera and extol the virtues of the Labour Party. Nor would I stand in the middle of California and say that Bush is the greatest president alive; and nor would I stand in the middle of Texas and say that Bush is the worst sonofabitch alive. You have to be sensible at times.

OK, that's pretty clear.

But here's a thought: if everyone is conforming, how do we know who "really" believes in GWB or Jesus, and who is just pretending, in order to stay out of trouble?

1. Keep your mouth shut
2. Graduate high school and go to college
3. Get your degree and get the hell out of Dodge
4. Don't look back and let them rot in their ignorance while you bask in success

Truth be told, there's not much you can do but keep your mouth shut. Stupid people are stupid people (and trust me, I've seen my fair share of nitwit leftists and atheists that are just as bad), and they're not going to listen because their minds are too small to even comprehend tolerating another viewpoint. Just cut your losses and get the hell out of there ASAP.

This is why I say "The Pretender" is the right song:

Keep you in the dark
You know they all pretend
Keep you in the dark
And so it all began

...

Done pleading ignorance
That whole defense

...

What if I say I'm not like the others?
What if I say I'm not just another one of your plays?
You're the pretender
What if I say that I'll never surrender?

What if I say I'm not like the others?
What if I say I'm not just another one of your plays?
You're the pretender
What if I say that I'll never surrender?

In time or so i'm told
I'm just another soul for sale... oh, well

...

We are not permanent
We're temporary, temporary

...

What if I say I'm not like the others?
What if I say I'm not just another one of your plays?
You're the pretender
What if I say that I'll never surrender?

What if I say I'm not like the others?
What if I say I'm not just another one of your plays?
You're the pretender
What if I say that I'll never surrender?

I'm the voice inside your head
You refuse to hear
I'm the face that you have to face
Mirrored in your stare
I'm what's left, I'm what's right
I'm the enemy
I'm the hand that will take you down
Bring you to your knees

So who are you?
Yeah, who are you?
Yeah, who are you?
Yeah, who are you?

Keep you in the dark
You know they all pretend

What if I say I'm not like the others?
What if I say I'm not just another one of your plays?
You're the pretender
What if I say that I'll never surrender?

What if I say I'm not like the others?
What if I say I'm not just another one of your plays?
You're the pretender
What if I say that I'll never surrender?

What if I say I'm not like the others?
(Keep you in the dark)
What if I say I'm not just another one of your plays?
(You know they all... pretend)
You're the pretender
What if I say that I'll never surrender?

What if I say I'm not like the others?
(Keep you in the dark)
What if I say I'm not just another one of your plays?
(You know they all... pretend)
You're the pretender
What if I say that I'll never surrender?

So who are you?
Yeah, who are you?
Yeah, who are you?

Counting how many people tell me to conform

Count is currently at: 18

:headbang:

Don't listen. They're wrong. I stand firm in saying that any victory for bigotry is a bad thing, so don't give them that victory over you! You may suffer negative consequences for standing on principle now, but just think what happens if you back down. One day, many years from now, as you lie on your deathbed, what would you be willing to trade for one chance to go back to stand up and tell those bigots that you are not ashamed for what you (don't) believe? What would you trade for having the courage to remain firm in your beliefs?

Never be ashamed for where the evidence of the world takes you. Never apologize for your (lack of) beliefs.

1. Keep your mouth shut
2. Graduate high school and go to college
3. Get your degree and get the hell out of Dodge
4. Don't look back and let them rot in their ignorance while you bask in success

Truth be told, there's not much you can do but keep your mouth shut. Stupid people are stupid people (and trust me, I've seen my fair share of nitwit leftists and atheists that are just as bad), and they're not going to listen because their minds are too small to even comprehend tolerating another viewpoint. Just cut your losses and get the hell out of there ASAP.

I don't think that you could be more wrong on this. If everybody in the past had just shut up, if nobody was willing to go against the bigoted majority, then we'd still have segregation, women would not be allowed to vote, and homosexuality would still be considered a mental disorder-- and would even be a crime in many places.

Well, at what point do you say "there are just too many of them, I gotta keep my head down"? 99%? 85%? 50%?

Or can one bully compel a whole town to "conform"?

Only if he can send people to the cornfield.

"Conform" could mean "fake it to the best of your ability" or it could mean "be vague and stay out of trouble."

That's not a unanimous bloc of 18 posters for "conform." They probably meant different things by it.

Only if he can send people to the cornfield.

That's an Americanism for "kill them" right?

I think you're missing my point. The bully might be a big man in the community, with many followers. Even his goons might be "conforming" and not really believing. He might even be a long-dead hippy.

No, I'm not making my point much clearer. You have to want it ... ;)

I'm among friends here, right? It's OK to call Jesus a gay communist hippy, isn't it?

That's an Americanism for "kill them" right?


That's a reference to a really old Twilight Zone episode . . .

I don't think that you could be more wrong on this. If everybody in the past had just shut up, if nobody was willing to go against the bigoted majority, then we'd still have segregation, women would not be allowed to vote, and homosexuality would still be considered a mental disorder-- and would even be a crime in many places.

I might be, but those people also had a lot of others sympathetic to them and there was a real movement behind them that would outlast its individual participants. The person in question doesn't...they're one person by themselves facing a lot of stupid and hostile people. There are some times when it's just dumb to stand up for your beliefs; unless you want to get beaten up or worse. In a case like this, it's better to just pay the assholes lip service until you can get away.

hey CvP... try this.

Call Homeland Security and tell them you're being threatened by "Religious Fanatics." :D

Atheist jihad?

How does that differ from atheist crusade? I'm curious.

I'm among friends here, right? It's OK to call Jesus a gay communist hippy, isn't it?

Anything less would be blasphemous;)

How does that differ from atheist crusade? I'm curious.

Just look at the crusades themselves. The crusaders where on offense so if your campaign is attacking then it is a crusade. The opposite is for a jihad. Not saying either were correct or wrong in any way, and in no way endorse either side. Basically to understand this point watch hockey.

I know things really weren't that simple but I don't have time for all this "history" stuff.

Drop out of school, get arrested, and while in your cell, write a book titled "My Struggle".

Drop out of school, get arrested, and while in your cell, write a book titled "My Struggle".

Nope, we're not making that mistake again. Political prisoners get Disney Channel, not pens and paper.

Drop out of school, get arrested, and while in your cell, write a book titled "My Struggle".

I'm having a strange sense of deja vu...

Nope, we're not making that mistake again. Political prisoners get Disney Channel, not pens and paper.
:eek:
Wait..really? No pen and paper? Or pencil? I better make sure never to get arrested..
I'm having a strange sense of deja vu...

Were you threatened by hardline conservative christian hippies too?

Were you threatened by hardline conservative christian hippies too?

Hippies can be hardliners?

Hippies can be hardliners?

They do some hard lines man..
hard lines..
*passes out*

Drop out of school, get arrested, and while in your cell, write a book titled "My Struggle".

Oh, and try failing at being an artist. Rejection builds character. And Weltschmerz.

Oh, and try failing at being an artist. Rejection builds character. And Weltschmerz.

And the Fourth Reich, which will last 100 years longer than the last one.

And the Fourth Reich, which will last 100 years longer than the last one.

The Reich did in fact last 1000 years, except it was measured in 'Hitler years' which are roughly 1=100 in calculation.

Kat, I admit not ALL teachers will simply force the kid to take the crap or accept it, but if every (or even most) principal was like yours, the term "bullycide" would not have been created.

Which is why teachers and principals tend to take it seriously, and which is why cops do, too.

And if they don't, maybe Cake v. Pie should ask, "What are you waiting for, the next Columbine?"

Have you witnessed another teacher been verbally or physically abused by a student? or by a group of students?

Have you witnessed another teacher been verbally or physically abused by a parent?

Do you know any teacher that has left the profession because of the threats and bad feeling about bulling against teachers.
Teachers need to feel safe, I feel some US Principals/Politicians dont what it takes..


Verbally, yes. Suspension followed immediately. Physically, never, in the three schools I taught in.

Verbally, yes. Parent escorted from premises. Physically, never, in the three schools I taught in.

Nope.

I remind you, once again, I teach in one of the biggest urban school systems in the US, New York City.

Whould it do if I let them see the other side of me, the side that only comes out if I'm angry (just to scare the crap out of them)? Or should I seek legal action?

If you escalate it, they could claim you started it and they were defending themselves from you. Keeping your cool and involving the people Kryozerkia and I suggested would be your best bet.

Thats very likely as well.
We all know how they loved to be martyred.

Heeeeey, some of us in here giving advice ARE Christians, ya know.

Only if he can send people to the cornfield.

I loved the Twilight Zone.

Drop out of school, get arrested, and while in your cell, write a book titled "My Struggle".

And be poked fun of by a NY comedian named Mel?

SPRINGTIME... FOR HITLER... AND GERMANY.....
;)

The Reich did in fact last 1000 years, except it was measured in 'Hitler years' which are roughly 1=100 in calculation.

Actually, 1 Hitler year is about 1.34 average human years.

That is absolutely the worst advice ever given in the history of this forum, or indeed, the history of any forum.

Making threats about the next 'Columbine' because people aren't taking you seriously has the potential to lead to grave repercussions for the individual making them.

I completely did not intend it as a threat -- only, "are you waiting for it to get completely out of hand?"

I certainly did not intend anyone to take from that, "Hey, cop, why don't I just start stockpiling weapons and kill them all."

And if they don't, maybe Cake v. Pie should ask, "What are you waiting for, the next Columbine?"

That is absolutely the worst advice ever given in the history of this forum, or indeed, the history of any forum.

Making threats about the next 'Columbine' because people aren't taking you seriously has the potential to lead to grave repercussions for the individual making them.

Heeeeey, some of us in here giving advice ARE Christians, ya know.

Thats crap, and you know it!

Everyone knows that the Mods on this board sign away thier souls to the devil, in exchange for unleeeeeemited power and tacos!

Curse you and your tacos!

That is absolutely the worst advice ever given in the history of this forum, or indeed, the history of any forum.

Making threats about the next 'Columbine' because people aren't taking you seriously has the potential to lead to grave repercussions for the individual making them.

It would CERTAINLY get the needed attention.

I completely did not intend it as a threat -- only, "are you waiting for it to get completely out of hand?"

I certainly did not intend anyone to take from that, "Hey, cop, why don't I just start stockpiling weapons and kill them all."

You should at least make it clear that threatening people is not the way to go then. Because 'are you waiting for the next columbine?' certainly carries within it the threat of violence.

It would CERTAINLY get the needed attention.

Well it would get attention, but probably not in the way desired.

In addition to me getting thwacked over the head with a brick.

Well it would get attention, but probably not in the way desired.


That depends on how he says it.
He might just get the attention from those who could help.
These days, the mere mention of Columbine is taken very seriously by school adminstrators.

Thats crap, and you know it!

Everyone knows that the Mods on this board sign away thier souls to the devil, in exchange for unleeeeeemited power and tacos!

Curse you and your tacos!

Not true. I got banana bread. :p

kill...all...of...them.

That depends on how he says it.
He might just get the attention from those who could help.
These days, the mere mention of Columbine is taken very seriously by school adminstrators.

Of course it gets taken seriously. Once someone mentions columbine every chickenshit school administrator is forced to take preventive action just in case it might happen at some time in the future and they were caught not doing everything they could to stop it.

But that doesn't mean that there is going to be some type of crackdown on bullying or anything. All it means is that you go after the person who brought up columbine in the first place.

But that doesn't mean that there is going to be some type of crackdown on bullying or anything. All it means is that you go after the person who brought up columbine in the first place.

Especially because Columbine was seen (mistakenly, I might add) as some sort of revenge against bullies. But that's because people tried to explain it away as some sort of "retribution", like the notion of "barbarism" (threat from the past, retribution from past sins) in Gothic literature.

So, yeah, mentioning Columbine will get people trying to get "help" (unlikely to be GOOD help) for the bullied, but doing nothing against the bullies, if the bullied himself makes the mention - as it will invariably sound like a threat. Because bullies are the "normal" ones, after all. They would NEVER go into a school in a killing spree... Or so they think.

Because bullies are the "normal" ones, after all. They would NEVER go into a school in a killing spree... Or so they think.

*silence*
..
*speaks in a low whisper*
It's the quiet ones you have to watch out for...

Not true. I got banana bread. :p

Oh sure!

You get banana bread!

I sold my soul to the devil and all I got was this lousy t-shirt!

Its SO not fair!!!

*silence*
..
*speaks in a low whisper*
It's the quiet ones you have to watch out for...

WHAT? SORRY, I DIDN'T HEAR YOU!

Oh sure!

You get banana bread!

I sold my soul to the devil and all I got was this lousy t-shirt!

Its SO not fair!!!
I thought the saying is "I was drugged and left for dead in Mexico, and all I got was this lousy t-shirt." :p
WHAT? SORRY, I DIDN'T HEAR YOU!

*silently plots your demise*
*in silence*

I thought the saying is "I was drugged and left for dead in Mexico, and all I got was this lousy t-shirt."

"I woke up in a tub of ice, and all I got was this lousy scar where my kidney used to be"

"I woke up in a tub of ice, and all I got was this lousy scar where my kidney used to be"

:eek:

Goes great with fava beans and a nice chianti, if you can find it.

SUPER COLUMBINE MASSACRE RPG!

:eek:

Goes great with fava beans and a nice chianti, if you can find it.
That's a liver.

That's a liver.

Ah..yea.
Kidneys go better with Kidney Beans and a nice white wine.

Well, I took care of it. Don't expect it in the news, though.

Ah..yea.
Kidneys go better with Kidney Beans and a nice white wine

I prefer some sauteed mushrooms and a beer, myself.

Stop living in yeehawcowboyland.

*kneels before Zod*

Now ... wtf?

"Now..." you will not get immolated by my eye lasers coming out of your computer screen!

:p (ROFL)