Atheists can perhaps express compassion more easily than believers can because we are not confused by: • Fatalism: “Whatever happens is God’s will.” • Pessimism: “We deserve to suffer.” • Salvation: “Death is not the end.” • Retribution: “Justice will prevail in the afterlife.” • Magic: “Pray for help.” • Holy war: “Kill for God.” • Forgiveness: “I won’t be held responsible for my mistakes.” • Glory: “Suffering with Christ is an honor.”
