[dead jim]

let's say that you're a homosexual and you want to get married: then it matters.
let's say you get pregnant or you get someone pregnant, and the two of you want an abortion: then it matters.
let's say that you have some disease which is likely to be cured if stem cell research was allowed to flourish: then it matters.
let's say researchers believe they have developed a method of cloning human organs, but there is a current ban on doing any such thing because it is tantamount to acting like God, and you will die without getting a new kidney: then it matters.
let's say that you're on death row, and the newly elected governor is a catholic and, hence, opposed to capital punishment: then it matters.
let's say you live in an area ravaged by natural disaster such as new orleans, and christian organizations feel they are commanded by God to help such individuals: then it matters.

the list goes on and on. whether you realize it or not, you are affected daily by the belief in some god. islamic militancy, christian charity, protestant work ethic, all these things and more affect the world we all live in, and they all depend on some belief about god's existence. i'm telling you: it matters.