darth_ender said:

Well, I did mean more in the online forum setting. If I said, "Hey, dclarkeg, you're going to hell" (which I don't believe, but I know many Christians do), were I in his shoes, I'd probably laugh. Whereas if he (or more likely Darth Id, since dclarkeg is more respectful) said, "Hey, ender, Jeebus was the bastard child of Mary fornicating with a Roman soldier, and only fools believe in him," I might just get offended.

But I can see how such beliefs might offend more personal relations, especially if such statements were frequently restated.

I personally do not like Stephanie Meyers (though she is a Mormon ;) ), but there are people who are passionate about her books and characters. While in certain circles I might freely criticize her and tear up the Twilight series. But if I'm in the midst of great fans, I'm not going to loudly proclaim just what an idiot she must be, how trashy her books are, how weak her prose, and how anyone who reads it must be the epitome of ignorant. I would choose to be respectful.

I really do appreciate your defense against such vocal jerks, and I appreciate your helping me see a bit more perspective. I just personally don't see a reason justifying why some have acted as they have. Like I said, I am writing a book. I am actually writing two, and if I am being honest, I'm not terribly far in either. However, both books carry heavy religious themes: one about the dangers of religious extremism, the other about two primary characters, one who is religious, the other atheist, and how they learn to appreciate each others' views. I see no reason why atheists and believers cannot have mutual respect, but a certain breed of arrogant atheists see no need for such mutual respect.

I would be interested in reading those books when they are finished...as always you have a lot of admirable insight on the topic...