I'm happy to learn of Atheists United. I have a slightly different point of view of singing that I'd like to mention -- though not necessarily prescribe. It's just the way it works on me. First, by way of analogy, I think it's fair to say that circumstances can frame situations. An off-color thought on this is the fact that during a state of sexual arousal, people not only accept, but enjoy things that under other circumstances they'd find distasteful or icky. For me, it's similar with religious singing. While I detest the linguistic and intellectual distortions foisted upon people by religion, the influence of music makes access to a mindset that renders religious text not only non-disgusting, but actually desirable. This lets me participate in something that opens a door in my mind/system/"soul" that is normally closed off. It's nice while it lasts, and I enjoy its salutary effects -- yet when the music is over, the text returns to its normal silliness. However, religious music doesn't trigger any particularly neurotic or traumatic feelings for me. (BUT, I won't utter the words to The Battle Hymn Of The Republic. In that particular case, the music is SO GOOD, that it it acts like a chemical that transports poison through the skin to kill the victim. So, that one stays off limits, even for me.) But the Mass in B Minor, or similar masterpieces? Bring 'em on. I'll sing 'em with abandon and never bat an eye. And nothing makes me happier than to sing a solid, popular gospel song in a barbershop quartet. I can walk and talk with Jesus and all that stuff -- as long as everyone's singing their part in sync and in tune. When it's over, it's over, I happily return to the real world. Your mileage may vary.

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