That story exemplifies the common rationalization of many Protestants: as long as I live a "good life" it doesn't matter what I believe.  It alleviates the pressure of having to account for one's failure to pay attention to God and other sins.  And, of course, it's all based on one's personal standard, not the standard set forth in the Gospels.

Jesus had a lot more to say than "Be nice."  And his works and acts were enormous, because he was God.  Now if you think God is a fairy tale, well, then we're quite far apart here, aren't we.