I watched the ‘Atheist’ episode of Morgan Spurlock’s “30 days” on more4 last night. By far the most impressive thing about the programme was the incredible resolve and determination of Brenda throughout. The main thrust of the programme was almost lost to me as I looked at the variety of expressions on her face, and felt for her throughout her experiences (attending church/bible groups and so forth). I’ve sort of been there myself (years ago at University), when out of curiosity, I was invited to attend a christian union get together. Try an evangelical wedding too, with all the hand waving. OK, not quite the 30 day immersive experience, but it’s very strange and very awkward trying not to appear rude.
Brenda seemed to have most difficulty with the host husband. He struck me as having a great deal of difficulty accepting that it is perfectly possible to live your life without requiring belief in the supernatural. A complete mental block on the idea (or even basic hypothetical situations regarding words on a dollar note), and some very defensive body language, and what seemed overly concerned expressions as his wife demonstrated a much more open-minded attitude towards Brenda and her opinions/experiences.
I also came across a page with some behind-the-scenes comments following on from a talk she gave, including clarifying comments from Brenda herself which lays out the reasons for some of the tension the programme reflected (as well as some interesting exclusions). Well worth a read, along with the initial review.
It was certainly an interesting, if slightly flawed, programme, but raises the profile of an issue that put’s the problems here in the UK into perspective (certainly if Rod Liddle is anything to go by).
But what a stalwart Brenda proved to be, for atheists in the US, and everywhere else. Congratulations, from one atheist to another 
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