The foundation of my upbringing was devoid of religious doctrine. My exposure to spirituality consisted of vague references to a “higher power” who fashioned the universe, an unread children’s Bible gathering dust, and a simple yet profound lesson: “As long as you’re a good person, that’s what truly matters.”
What a refreshing idea.
I was never baptized, never taken to a church service, and never instructed on what beliefs to hold. Despite my parents’ strong religious convictions, particularly my mother’s, her priority was teaching me kindness over Catholicism. She believed that good values could be imparted without adhering to any specific religious guidelines.
My parents prioritized my character over any ritualistic observances. For them, it wasn’t about which ceremonies I participated in but rather about nurturing my growth into a person of integrity. Many parents find that religion aids in this endeavor, but mine understood that morality could thrive independently of faith. They believed it was essential for me to explore my own beliefs rather than follow a prescribed path.
Now that I’m older and, I hope, wiser, I appreciate my parents’ decision to allow me to navigate this journey on my own. I’m not here to dictate how others should raise their children, whether religious or not, but I can confidently say that my upbringing has equipped me with a strong moral compass.
There’s a common misconception that without religion, one lacks a sense of morality. “Alex,” people often ask, “How can you claim to have morals without God?” Let me shed some light on that.
When I was about eight years old, I witnessed a car accident unfold right before my family while we were stopped at a red light. My father instantly parked the van and jumped out to assist. He helped one of the victims manage a panic attack, and soon, other bystanders joined in to offer their support.
As a child, I witnessed firsthand how one person’s compassion could uplift another in distress. I recollect the countless times I was encouraged to help others, to care for my neighbors, and to lend a hand wherever possible. Although these lessons are echoed in many sacred texts, I didn’t need a holy book to comprehend their significance.
When I reflect on the source of my morals, I picture the woman my dad comforted through a shattered car window. Whether or not God was present that day is beyond me, but I know my father was there, embodying kindness and humanity.
Even as a child, I learned that doing good mattered—not because of potential rewards or punishments in an afterlife, but because it could bring light to someone else’s world. That day, my dad became a beacon of hope amid chaos, assuring a scared stranger that she was not alone.
I grew up aspiring to be that beacon for others. My upbringing instilled in me the desire to do what’s right not out of obligation to a higher power or ancient texts, but because I believe our treatment of one another shapes the world we inhabit. Like my parents, I envision a world built on kindness and empathy—without conditions or exceptions.
My parents reminded me that my generation would inherit the world, and every act of kindness or cruelty would contribute to shaping that future. I’ve never forgotten that lesson.
Contrary to popular belief, my upbringing did not leave me feeling lost or without purpose. Instead, it fueled my determination to enact positive change—becoming the helping hand reaching through that glass barrier, the calming voice amidst chaos.
So what does a child raised without religion grow up to believe? My brother, a moderate Christian with his own beliefs, would have his perspective. As for me, I’m the self-proclaimed liberal skeptic who thrives on the other side of the spectrum. (Yes, a child without religious constraints can grow up to embrace a variety of beliefs.)
Regardless of where we’ve landed, I am simply grateful to have had the freedom to explore my own values without being told that they define my worth, my destiny, or my morals.
When I identify as an atheist, I often sense discomfort or even hostility from others. Yet, I’ve learned to brush it off. I don’t dwell on the existence or absence of a higher power because my focus is elsewhere.
I’m dedicated to dismantling the stigma surrounding mental health issues, ensuring that no one has to suffer alone. I strive to create safe spaces for LGBTQ individuals to express their true selves and stand resolutely as an ally against injustice. Just as my parents instilled in me, I’m committed to doing good and leaving the world a better place than I found it.
For someone raised without conventional morality, I’d say I’m doing just fine.
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In summary, being raised without religion has not hindered my moral development; rather, it has encouraged me to forge my own path and contribute positively to the world around me.