So I came across this poem written by Jane Goodall whose religious status I don't know and it doesn't matter. When I heard her read this poem it occurred to me that most atheists could probably relate to this quite well. So I thought I'd create a poll and find out.
If you've ever felt the sentiment expressed in this poem yourself or, now that you think about it, find that you do share that sentiment, then I think you have a robust sense of awe and wonder. So do you suppose atheists can or do have as great a sense of awe and wonder as theists?
The Old Wisdom by Jane Goodall
When the night wind makes the pine trees creak
And the pale clouds glide across the dark sky,
Go out, my child, go out and seek
Your soul: the eternal I.
For all the grasses rustling at your feet
And every flaming star that glitters high
Above you, close up and meet
In you: the Eternal I.
Yes, my child, go out into the world; walk slow
And silent, comprehending all, and by and by
Your soul, the Universe, will know
Itself: the Eternal I.
If you've ever felt the sentiment expressed in this poem yourself or, now that you think about it, find that you do share that sentiment, then I think you have a robust sense of awe and wonder. So do you suppose atheists can or do have as great a sense of awe and wonder as theists?
The Old Wisdom by Jane Goodall
When the night wind makes the pine trees creak
And the pale clouds glide across the dark sky,
Go out, my child, go out and seek
Your soul: the eternal I.
For all the grasses rustling at your feet
And every flaming star that glitters high
Above you, close up and meet
In you: the Eternal I.
Yes, my child, go out into the world; walk slow
And silent, comprehending all, and by and by
Your soul, the Universe, will know
Itself: the Eternal I.
