[skeptix]

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When it comes down to it, our values and beliefs are the most concrete and self governing aspects of life that we control and possess, regardless of what they are.

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There is a strong argument to be made that values are merely a survivalistic tendency of human nature. I would purport that the connection between belief and values is loose at best, and quite contradictory at worst.

I can't speak for all that added their $.02 on the matter of religion, but for me personally, the OP's story is quite tragic. It is hard not to empathise with him because of his rather positive outlook in wake of such a tragedy. However, his source of comfort is tragically convoluted.

This is massively complex, and I try to tread lightly, but just because he has earned my emotional respect does not mean I will hold back my lack of intellectual respect.