Religion is important to many people around the world. The majority of people have their own set of beliefs, but are comfortable with the idea that others do not share those beliefs. But the problem with religion is a minority of people who are convinced that their religion is right, everyone else’s faith is wrong, and that they have an obligation to ensure that the entire world knows this.

As an agnostic, I respect the billions of people who believe in a guiding divinity that shapes our ends, but there are those who are horrified when they learn that I do not believe in their "true god". These individuals refuse to listen to any critique of their religious beliefs, while freely claiming that all other religions are false, and that those who follow these other religions are evil. They and their kind are the only people on the entire planet that know "the truth". Whenever this level of smug confidence is present, there will be conflict with those who do not share this certainty.

There are billions of people in this world, each with their own faith (or lack) and the confidence that they are correct. How can any one person claim that billions are damned because their beliefs are different?

Peace comes from respecting the beliefs of others. As humans, we all have a responsibility towards fellow inhabitants of this planet. Rather than tearing down opposing religions, we should appreciate the differences, and not insult vast swathes of the population by claiming they are misguided and blind.

Religion is an individual choice and should be treated as such. Therefore, everyone should be able to practice their beliefs in peace, without others telling them they are wrong, and therefore evil, for their faith or lack thereof. No one should have the right to impose their religion upon others.

The majority of people in the world respect the beliefs of others, but there are some who do not. People who do believe that I and others are evil for not sharing their beliefs need to refrain from forcingp them on us, and allow all of us on this planet to practice our beliefs in peace.