Atheism and the meaning of life - what drives you?

[Spongebob]

Okay? Well the whole concept of "meaning" within the human experience is irrelevant, since we'll never know the truth any which way. Humans do not exist forever, don't waste your time trying to find some higher meaning in life.

Yeah, don't agree with that.  I can define meaning for me, no problem.  What I don't understand is what adding the adjective "higher" does for the question.  I know what gives life meaning for me; there is no higher or lower meaning as far as I know.

Example:  Filling out my taxes provides no meaning at all for me; its torture.  Painting, otoh, is incredibly enriching.  So, by that logic, if I was forced to do taxes all day every day of my life, I would rather die.  But I could be quite content to paint every day.  I also find meaning in providing for my family, but I really don't see either as "higher" in value than the other.  I think theists like to use this term to suggest that worshiping god or doing god's work is of higher significance in life, but I don't agree.  I certainly feel that when someone decides to dedicate their time to efforts that help strangers or the community are honorable, I still don't see those efforts as higher in value than, say taking care of one's children.  People ultimately do the things that make them feel that their time is well spent, whatever that is.  But a person being a good parent is just as important as building houses for the homeless.  Both are important work and can bring meaning to one's life.