I've made a somewhat philosophical decision in the past few weeks, something I'm not quite sure about yet but it's beginning to settle with me. Firstly, I'm seeking a secular component to my life that satisfies the Sagan-esque experiences of wonder and awe that I feel on a nearly daily basis when I regard the world around me. I can't quite call it a "spiritual" aspect in the sense the religious folks interpret the word, but so far I've yet to find a secular interpretation of the word that doesn't include supernatural elements (what some people might call "New Age"). I am a scientist in my heart, which doesn't mean I'm cold or unmoved by the truly awe inspiring nature of reality. I just prefer to interpret this wonderful world in the context of reality, which I feel brings a richness unmatched by any supernatural explanation or mythos. Sadly this quasi-spiritual state of mind is rarely discussed or addressed in scientific circles. It's not wonder why there's such a prevalence of non-scientific or pseudo-scientific niches to address this. But... it's not what I want.

Because of people like Sam Harris, Richard Dawkins, and Carl Sagan I know there is room for a pseudo-transcendental emotional connection with the existing world, but it seems so personal that it is exceedingly difficult to find any sort of guide to honing this experience on the philosophical level. I don't believe it's impossible, I believe that just like any other awesome experience the scientific understanding, the great humbling of the human psyche, can be known as an enriching experience not unlike those expressed in the traditionally spiritual community. I suppose this is a round-about way of saying I'm beginning to seek out an incarnation of spirituality that is compatible with me as a Secular Humanist. Because Secular Humanists have no established dogma, this is a journey without clear directions or destinations. I don't even really know how I'll know I've gotten what I want. But, I'm going try.

Now, don't mistake this as a budding religiosity. It ain't ;). My atheism is happy and healthy, ready for growth.

In other growth-related news, I've decided to learn Spanish, even though the language doesn't particularly appeal to me at an artistic level I cannot dismiss its usefulness. Plus, it's fun to learn new languages! Once I complete my first level training I'll begin learning a few more languages. Some on my list include: German, Swedish, Latin, Welsh, Russian, Japanese, Mandarin, and of course more French.

Adios!
Cailin