Quote by Ayaan Hirsi Ali
The only position that leaves me with no cognitive dissonance is atheism. It is not a creed. Death is certain, replacing both the siren-song of Paradise and the dread of Hell. Life on this earth, with all its mystery and beauty and pain, is then to be lived far more intensely: we stumble and get up, we are sad, confident, insecure, feel loneliness and joy and love. There is nothing more; but I want nothing more.
Summary
In this quote, the author expresses their belief in atheism as the only position that does not create conflicting thoughts or beliefs (cognitive dissonance). To them, atheism is not a set of beliefs or a faith, but rather a lack thereof. They find comfort in the certainty of death, rejecting the allure of Heaven and the fear of Hell. As a result, they see life on Earth as an opportunity to fully embrace its uncertainties, experiences, and emotions. While acknowledging the complexities of life, they assert that they desire nothing beyond what it offers.