Thanks for sharing. It's always handy to have stories like this readily available, because so often believers deny that those who don't share their beliefs are treated differently because of it. It doesn't fit with the Christian persecution narrative that is so prevalent these days. As someone who was born and raised in Northeastern Louisiana, the presence of Christianity in everyday life was bordering on absurdity. Billboards asking "Do you know where YOU'RE going when you die?" dot the countryside. Advertisements for credit unions mention that membership is open to anyone who lives or worships in the area. There were more churches than gas stations (the traditional comparison to libraries would just make me sad), each sign trying to outwit the previous - "There is no GOOD without GOD", "God doesn't believe in atheists!". Every sign a stark reminder that I am the Other, that I don't belong here.

Luckily, I was able to move away. Now I live in New Orleans, where the laissez faire culture permeates even religion. It's not uncommon to see churches and tabernacles marching in Pride parades, behind dancing drag queens. The churches are still present, but they're outnumbered by bars (where I prefer to partake of whatever sacrament is on tap). It's refreshing to be able to drive to work and back without having to see a dozen admonitions reminding me that I'm part of the unwanted minority.