Athena Salman, atheist legislator, on secular values and godless invocations

[HAB911]

WASHINGTON (RNS) As member of the Arizona House of Representatives, Athena Salman took her turn recently and offered an invocation before the start of the day’s business.

But the first-term Democrat from Tempe, is an atheist and her invocation did not reference a higher power.

“Take a moment to look around you at the people gathered here today,” Salman’s invocation began. “We come from a variety of backgrounds and interests, but the passion that ignites us; the fire that burns within us; is similar. We all seek to form ‘a more perfect union,’ creating change from an abiding passion to improve the lives of the humans of this city. There is wonder in that. More importantly, though, there is unity.”


That unity was shattered immediately after the invocation when Rep. Mark Finchem, a Republican, objected to the Arizona House leadership because the invocation did not appeal to a higher power. In February, Republicans added a rule that required opening invocations to do so.

http://religionnews.com/2017/06/19/athena-salman-atheist-legislator-on-secular-values-and-godless-invocations/

[LakeArenal]

1. I once had a god wad ask me

If you don't believe, where is your moral compass?

I patiently explained that all cultures have words for right and wrong. That we all know what's right and wrong without a list of only ten rules that Christians don't follow anyway. I don't agree with those ten rules necessarily anyway.. Do not lie...a mortal sin... Yet,
no rules on pedophilia, or corruption, or torture or many worthy sins.. Just be sure not to be envious of your neighbor's hot wife.

[HAB911]

2. I tell them

It doesn't take a rocket scientist to know to live your life the best for simple self preservation

[LakeArenal]

3. No, it takes some a 1000 page book not rocket science.

No science allowed...

No disrespect meant, but I think I am here for more than simple self preservation..