ex-YECs -- a question

I'm not sure how many ex-YECs we have here, but I was wondering if you would be willing to share with us the details of your transformation from YECist to old earther.I'm particularly interested in the pieces of evidence that finally convinced you YECism was wrong and how long it took to reach that conclusion.Additionally, were you open or completely closed to the idea of an old earth and how long did the transformation process take? Were you scientifically literate or not? Was it spiritually devastating or fulfilling?I'm interested because I have been involved in many young earth v. old earth discussions and for the most part, they seem like a complete waste of time - not to mention frustrating as hell. It does seem, however, that the silent majority are where the battles are being won.The YECs who argue the loudest are generally the ones most steeped in YEC propaganda and the ones unwilling to look at or mull over the evidence presented. The ones who stand quietly in the background are listening, paying attention, and seem to be the ones who are actually critically analysing the discussions.Please share your story.... and re-inspire those of us thinking of retiring this old debate.

Thanks for your answer, Mike. I have a few more questions.Were you finally convinced through discussion or by TV or your own research? Were you firmly closed against the idea of an old earth or always open to it? How do you feel about your position now - spiritually-speaking?

So Lam, you knew at a young age that the story of Noah was illogical at best (I did, too). Did you discuss this discovery with your family? And if you did, how did they take it?Also, did that lead to your current state of religious belief (or non-belief)? Sorry, I can't remember if you are a religious or non-religious person.

ahahahaa I like that!I've been playing the same game with my mother - a very devout Mexican Catholic woman.She wouldn't disown me, but she would kill herself with worry about my everlasting soul. While I don't pretend to be devout, I do what needs to be done for my mom's sake. Dad's a Buddhist so I'm okay on that front.This message has been edited by roxrkool, 01-08-2005 22:41 AM

Thanks for your reply, TC.I'm curious... why is it not an option for you that God took care of all the heat resulting from accelerated decay rates?Also, if you no longer believe in a young earth (~6,000 yrs. old), why do you have a hard time believing it's 4.6 billion years old? I would think all your research is pointing you in the direction (or at least the research you've already conducted) by now. By "philosophie" do you mean your religious convictions?

I'm sorry, but I don't understand your point.

Oh, okay. THAT I understood.

Thanks, TC. That was very illuminating.Are you in college full time now?

Great news!Geophysics?

Geology? I thought you hated geology?

That was a very moving post. Thank you for sharing it with us, Hangdawg. I am sorry you suffered through a spiritual crisis. I have heard that is a very common occurrence for Creationists once they allow for the possibility that Creation is wrong. In fact, I don't think I've met an ex-Creationist yet who didn't go through a point where they questioned their faith and the existence of god.I think it is one of the most destructive stances YEC organizations take - that one's faith or belief in god must hinges on the belief of a young earth and man/woman's special creation (i.e., Adam and Eve).In the course of a creation/evolution or young/old earth debate, I do consider the possibility that the arguments may result in someone losing their faith and it pains me. While I did not suffer any such spiritual devastation, I have seen others go through it. Really, though, there's no reason for it because there is always a place for god in people's lives. However, AiG and other Creationist organizations like them make it hard or impossible for the average person to see that. That is very good advice. And just so you know, none of us arguing on the side of evolution wish to destroy anyone's faith. I am happy to hear you managed to retain your faith.Again, thanks for sharing.

I KNEW you'd see reason sooner or later.Good luck... not that you need it.