Reach out and touch a theist

What is so scary about atheism (“When atheists pray,” June 15 commentary by R. McNeil Foster)? Why such a vitriolic attack? If such a ferocious and illogical missive had been aimed at members of a race or religion, letters would pour in crying “hate speech.” Apparently nonbelievers are a group that one is still free to persecute and insult.

I notice that Foster never answers his own question, “Does an atheist pray?” posed many times with as many horrible circumstances as he can muster. That leads me to believe that Foster hasn’t actually met any atheists.

If he would take the trouble to do just that, he would find out that we don’t live in dark basements, we don’t spend vast sums trying to destroy the beliefs of the faithful, nor do we worship Satan (atheism includes no belief in Ol’ Scratch, either).

The fear and anger expressed in his regrettable commentary would, I think, soften with some familiarity, the same as civil rights and tolerance for African Americans and LGBT Americans become easier as neighbors get to know one another. I encourage any nonbeliever who knows Foster to reach out and let him see your reasonable face.

JENNIFER COX
LEXINGTON

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