(September 22, 2016 at 10:11 pm)Thena323 Wrote: I'm not in a romantic relationship, and I'm one of "those" atheists who's determined that life is essentially meaningless. I'm not particularly sad or depressed at any given moment, and I do find enjoyment in life, but I'm rarely happy. I can't remember the last time I was.
I don't know if, or how much of that is resulting from loss of faith, how much may be due to working a job where I where I continually witness death and suffering, or how much comes from being unattached and alone. I imagine it's likely be due to one or a combination of those things; Perhaps all of three. Perhaps more.
I don't know.
On occasion, I do feel as though a romantic relationship could give me something to look forward to, something and someone to nurture, a reason to set goals, a sense of connection, etc. ...Temporarily, at least. I've been married and divorced, so I also suspect that the "meaningful" feeling would likely be fleeting, unless I were to find an ideal partner.
Hope that helps a bit.
My wife and I have meaning-- developing a business and developing our kids.
I don't think meaning comes from feelings-- those are too fleeting. They come from a shared vision for the future, and a mutual willingness to work toward that vision. Yes, you can have that alone, but doing it together with someone is gratifying, too.
