Benjamin Andrews
Sometimes, after years of reading, research, and reflection on the origins of religion, something profound suddenly clicks into place. Here’s one such realization I’d like to share with you.
Each of us is entirely unique — no two people have the same fingerprints or DNA. That uniqueness begins at the very moment a random sperm meets a random egg. This genetic combination has never existed before and will never exist again. It is the singular event that brought you into existence.
This scientific fact alone undermines the notion of reincarnation. Suppose your individual self didn’t exist before this unique genetic event, and cannot re-occur after your body dies and decomposes. In that case, the idea of coming back in another form falls apart — unless, of course, one chooses to believe in magic.
Whether a god or higher intelligence exists becomes a moot point. Why? Because you — your conscious, individual self — won’t be around to ever know. That might sound bleak, but it’s actually a wonderfully liberating realization.
If we can spread this truth — this freeing, evidence-based message — to those who live in fear of divine punishment or cling to false hopes of eternal rewards, we can help them live more joyfully in the present. No more fear. No more guilt. Just deep appreciation for this one, incredible chance to experience the universe.
If you feel, like I do, that this truth could bring peace and freedom to many, help me share it. Pass this message along. Post it. Email it. Discuss it. Let’s give people permission to stop fearing the afterlife and start fully embracing this life.
I agree 100%, Benjamin. But quite a number of religious people I know feel that the promise of a beautiful afterlife in heaven helps them enjoy their remaining time “down here”.