I never thought in a million years (or my lifetime anyway) that I would cave to the views of others but alas I have. A piece I wrote ruffled some feathers I guess, so much for the freedom of speech. I won’t linger on this subject long but I do want to respond to some of the comments I got, so here it is:

• For god fearing folk you sure like to talk about killing me ? WTF!
• The language used from some of you is laughable (in content and verbiage)
• Take the same passion that you have for faith and apply it to your country
• Realize that “your” religion is no better than any other (or none)

I won’t address this issue again as honestly I could care less, it’s not about “my god” or “your god” as my god (me, myself and my wife) is what runs and rules the decisions I make and I respect all that do the same. I have never criticized the church or religion specifically but I do criticize the establishment and the people that are pulling the strings.

The death threats, phone calls, emails, comments and the mystery package were all nice thoughts and I appreciate the wholesome loving attention that all of you have showered me with but alas the time has come for us to part.

To all the “insert christian.ORG of your choice here” that contacted me via phone and mail…thank you for participating, really I mean it. To those who were civil and wanted to engage in debate I truly enjoyed it and I am considering starting an open forum to discuss some of these issues further. To those that just wanted to point out my “ignorance” and spout hate…you folks missed the point entirely. Freedom of speech and open dialog about issues that people differ on is what makes made this country a great place, don’t fall in to “their” trap and close your minds to open discussions.

I do want to take a second to wholeheartedly thank John S. of Lincoln, NE for the package as it really proved my point. John S. decided it would be funny to send me a 5 pound box full of assorted farm dung (shit in laymen terms) with a new crisp bible presented on top of the lovely pile. Here are a few quick thoughts regarding said package:

• Did you take the time to gather all of that shit?
• Did you take the time to package all said shit?
• You put “the holiest book in your life” on a pillow of shit? Nice
• The death threat that was scribbled on a Famous Dave’s BBQ receipt was a great touch
• I am truly flattered that in such an economic quagmire that you would spend your $$ to send me a gift

Look, seriously, if I had children I would have gone through the roof. If I was 13 I would have found your “gag package” amusing but sad to say those days have long passed me.

My wife wanted to call the bomb squad as the package looked nefarious at best but my expert shit detector went off before the package made it in to my humble abode. Nice try John, not really, keep an eye out for a package from a simple man as I sent you a little freedom. (of course that is if you had the BALLS to use a correct return address)

So, why did I pull the piece? Because I have to think about others in my life and not just about my views. I have to look out for the safety of my family and it was painfully obvious that some “loving Christians” would do me and my family harm if they had the opportunity.

A simple man who happens to be an atheist