It is not for a lack of desire,
for who would not want an Omnipotent Being
looking out for one's welfare,
protecting one's loves?
It is not for a streak of rebellion,
for I live my life no differently
than most who believe in God.
It is not for disappointment
in prayers unanswered,
for my life is good.
Some call it "blessed".
It is not due to misunderstanding,
for once I believed as they do,
bible at my bed, read through
dark nights of doubt,
praises to God in the morning.
It is not due to anger at clergy,
nor encountering the wrong church
or hypocrite laity,
for I've known many wonderful believers.
It is not hatred, fear, pride,
selfishness, or lack of education;
It is not bigotry, persecution, or immorality
that prevents me from believing.
I am an atheist,
not believing in the gods of today
for the same reason believers
disbelieve
in the gods of yesterday.