an expensive message from the church of non-belief

now, i've known some atheists in my time. people that are even passionate about their non-belief. but i didn't think they'd actually spend money to change anyone's mind. an atheist organization in the UK has placed advertising on 800 buses, 200 which will be in London, messaging the there is no god, but you should do good anyways. it is in response to a similar "JesusSaid" campaign from June 2008. [link on boingboing]

now, i'm used to adverts telling me to get saved by Jesus. i'm from a hometown that isn't technically, but does idolize, the south. jesus saves, repent now, 5 easy payments for salvation, etc. etc. but these jesus-folks have money. i've seen some pretty comfortable and styling ministers in my time, and my theory has been that the gates of heaven need more gold to pave the path. cool. god likes money. who doesn't?

what's surprising to me is that atheists have the drive and financing to advertise across 800 buses. the atheists i know just tell anyone that they're wrong and speak condescendingly to anyone of any faith. the ones i know have also generally not believed in spending money on anything other than flat panel tv's and new video game systems (and, occasionally, rent). so, this is interesting. these are very dedicated atheists. they are not only not believing, but their non-belief is so strong that they think bus adverts will convince a believer to stop believing? or is it just a "johnny hit me" resolution of "hitting johnny back"?

either way, congrats to the atheists that have made me believe that they are fiscally passionate about non-believing. you've become an organized, non-religion (who i now view as a religion).

isn't the point of not believing is not having faith in organized religion? and the fact that there are many cases of religious persecution of non-believers?

forget it. i'll just be flattered that there are so many different organizations that will fight for my soul (or acknowledgement of the lack-of). i can't blame you. it's a pretty bitchin soul. slightly irregular, but in working condition. but i digress, please, carry on.