Question for Atheists

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I have a powerful desire to know why the universe exists and our purpose for existence as individuals. I don't see science as a way to discover this. Do atheists search for the same thing and, if so, what is their source or method? I think most atheists don't see any purpose at all.

The trouble with the my initial response to this question - which is why should there be a point is that it is usually interpreted as some kind of nihilist response - it isn't, at least not for me.

I find the idea that there is a specific point to all of this to be demeaning in that it would, by definition, reduce the value of things deemed to be "not the point."

I suppose if the point of our existence is "to be the best that we can be," or some other generic, pap phrase it wouldn't impinge too badly but on the other hand do we really need some third party to tell us this?

Christian, and other religion's, view appears to be that the point is to praise God. Well that's super and dandy but what of other aspects of life? What of music, art, sculpture, sciences, literature, medicine, philosophy, love, passion....hell anything not on point - gardening, movies, shopping, sports...... its an endless list.

For any given individual any of the above (and a whole lot more) may be a dominating factor in their lives - is that wrong?

Surely the lack of "a point" is freedom by another name. Why do I desire someone, or something, else to determine the point of my existence?

If that applies to me, and I am comfortable with it, then why not the universe? Can't it just be?

You want a point to your life? Then choose one and as long as it is not harming others have at it. Change your mind at some later date? Focus on something else instead. Be free.