I have read many times that the one thing that really separates other mainstream religions from Chritianity is the concept and living out of "grace".

It is not part of their faith necessarily but yet grace and forgiveness towards others are things that we all live out at least to some degree, aren't they?

I guess I am curious though -- skipping over other religions -- if you're an atheist and happen to stumble across this blog, what does the concept of "grace" mean to you? Where is its root? Is it natural to mankind? Is it put there by some innate morality? Is it something we have just picked up over the years? Is that really possible?

Would love to hear your thoughts!