Reply #3: That's the kind of thing I think about quite a lot

[skygazer]

For myself, I feel that not believing in reincarnation or an afterlife makes me think more about what kind of impact I make in my short time here.

I realize that not all religious people look at it this way but it seems to me a lot of them look at the idea of "being good" as something they have to do because they're afraid of the consequences (hell) of being bad.

I don't see it that way. I try to live a good life and be kind to other people (and animals and the environment) because I think that makes the most sense, for myself personally and for life as a whole - mankind certainly but all life.

I don't believe we're here to fulfill some cosmic purpose or some life ordained by a deity. But we're here and for those who come after us, I see a responsibility to leave the world in at least the same shape if not better than we found it.

I just don't see why anyone feels that those who don't believe in a deity have no moral values (not saying you feel that way but many do). Ours are simply based on the logic of living in harmony with others because it's easier and more productive for all involved and not on any commandments from some god(s).