I volunteered a lot at the local office of a humanists’ organization, and skeptics’ investigation groups (as well as the local Pacifica radio station and an NPR radio station back in the 20th Century).
That all changed when my partner died in 2016. Grief was the most painful, disabling experience of my life. My brain wasn’t working right. I don’t think religion would have helped. I made a lot of mistakes, but I seem to be healing.
I’m actually surprised that I’ve adjusted to living alone - I’m pretty good at taking care of myself. I even learned how to drain and refill my hot water heater by myself (YouTube videos are amazing), and self sufficiency has made me somewhat independent; but maybe some lonely old heathen wants to make friends. This New York Times article explains what I think friendship really is, and how important friendship is for brain health.
I broke my ankle in 2019, and couldn’t put weight on it for three months. I ended up sitting on the couch watching TV. My caregiver and I binged Breaking Bad, Dexter, Gotham, The Flash, Penny Dreadful, Roswell New Mexico, GoT and a few other shows. I was sorry when it was over, at the time, but instead, in 2020, I watched the news on CNN and MSNBC, and The Blacklist, my favorite TV drama. (The main character has repudiated religion a few times.)
I walk about 20 minutes three times a day with the little dog, but no tennis, golf, not even pickle ball.
I had felt guilty about it, but this article cites studies that indicate a healthy relationship contributes more to longevity than exercise does.
I used to like fishing - both bass fishing in fresh water, and ocean fishing on party boats - but not lately. I do like to fly single line kites at the beach.
My Rules To Live By
Whenever I am having trouble making up my mind, it’s because I don’t have enough information. As soon as I have enough information, the right decision will seem obvious.
Tell the truth; that way you won't have to try to remember what you lied about.
When someone tells you who they are, believe them.
When I’m afraid I might be about to make a mistake, I ask myself “What’s the worst thing that can go wrong?” and estimate the probability of that happening compared to other outcomes.
Don't say you believe something that you don't really. It sets you up to lie about everything else. (Paraphrasing Thomas Paine)
I’m pretty straightforward, not mysterious or subtle. It’s probably not cool, but I like a lot of communication: phone, texts, email... sharing thoughts, opinions, inspirations. I probably am incompatible with someone who is quiet; I can’t read your mind.
I’ve resumed some skepticism activity since Covid. It’s amazing how much skeptics from all over the world can accomplish together online.
My most annoying fault is being too trusting. But I know that about myself, so I overcompensate by being too careful. It’s a vicious circle.