Many years ago. I grew up in the Deep South, Appalachian Division.
Yes, you're right. It's almost like two different COUNTRIES.
In Los Angeles, where I've lived for many years, not one neighbor has ever asked what church I belong to, invited me to church, etc. etc.
Even in 1994 with the Northridge earthquake (epicenter about 2 miles away), I can't remember anyone invoking god or insisting we stop and pray for deliverance. We were all too focused on making sure our neighbors were accounted for and unhurt.
Naturally L.A. has the Mormon/JW doorknockers. And $cientologists will pester you in Hollywood, where they own a big chunk of the real estate.
But in day-to-day life, if I want to hear some religious BS, I usually have to turn on the TV.
Then I go back where I came from for a visit - and it's wall-to-wall Jesus 24/7. Perfect strangers think nothing of asking what church you attend, and they ALWAYS assume you go to some church. Then there's the "Have a blessed day" and variations you get from almost every store clerk.
The local newspapers often feature letters to the editor whining about how this is a "Christian nation" and anyone who doesn't like that should just move.
Still, I'm thinking about moving back there. My Mom's not getting any younger and she's the only Mom I have. Cost of living is also much less than L.A. etc. But I gotta say, the Jesusmania really gives me second thoughts, along with the GOP-mania. I'm not looking forward to the pressure to conform to the local religiosity, or the fights when I don't. I have some relatives who are VERY strident Evangelicals and have to tangle with them already just about every time I visit.
Ah well. Maybe I can move back there and become the Village Atheist...
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