| I have been working on this video for some time, and had planned to upload it today as the rendering completed just yesterday morning. When I heard the sad news of Professor Hitchens' death late in the evening, I struggled with the thought of canceling this upload. It seemed somehow opportunistic to release a video so soon after, even if this coordination was not intentionally planned in advance. The beginning of this video especially carries a different meaning now that this news has reached all of us. In the end, I decided I could cope with this feeling of unease in order to share more of his thoughts, provide a moment of reflection, and pay humble tribute to the man that is an inspiration to me and so many others. If the first video was a general critique of religion, this edition is aimed at responses to common complaints non-believers hear again and again. Mr. Hitchens, your contributions to the struggle for liberty, equality, rationality, and freedom will never be forgotten. Your forcefulness, wit, and intelligence gave me the strength and courage to argue for these ideals in my own life. That you have done the same for so many is your great and immortal contribution to mankind. These seemingly small victories are what change the world; one action, one mind at a time, until the tide cannot be held back any longer. Your actions and words have moved us ever closer to that point. Thank you. |
