I think you are both confusing the "trappings" of some religions as somehow intrinsic to the definition.

Very simply, as posted above there are "beliefs" associated with atheism that are very similar to belioefs of any religion. Don't get so absorbed in looking for tress that you can't see the forest.

And, as I described those beliefs have some impact one your behavior.

You are acting as if being an atheist is somehow a morally superior postion to those who have religious beliefs, and so you do not want to be part of that crowd. And yet you are.
There are beliefs you have that you take on faith quite as much as the most zealous fundamentalist . Scary, isn't it.

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1982 300SD " Wotan" ..On the road as of Jan 8, 2007 with Historic Tags