There's a thread now in the archives from 2006 with this header.  I thought I would revive it on here since I couldn't reply to it over there.

Azalea originally posted this response.
"Its my equivalent of going to church/temple/mosque/...

As a scientist, I personally can't buy all the baggage in mainstream religions.  For a long time if asked, the only honest answer I could give was that I was an atheist.  But I was watching Charlie Rose one night and guest Daniel Dennett gave me a better answer. He pointed out that one definition of god is a power greater than that we can imagine (at least that is the gist of what I remember). Given that definition, I find it hard for anyone to be an atheist.  Certainly, the structure and complexity of nature is beyond what I can imagine.  I believe in evolution. That we are the result of billions of years of "growth" certainly speaks of a system of unimaginable power.

So going to canoe country allows me to get closer to the natural environment than I usually am, which given my thoughts on god, are equivalent to why some people attend their form of religous service."

I feel the same way.  I certainly love the fishing and the cameraderie of a trip but it's the process of unplugging from our hectic culture that I love.  Feeling the silence and seeing the brilliant stars in a black sky.... I just see the place as a sort of church.  I'm not one for organized religion but definitely am a believer in a higher power. 

I've always wanted to take my canoe out on the lake when there's a clear sky and no moon.  Just float out in the middle and take in the sky.  That's going to be a goal on this years trip. Maybe the wolves will howl in appreciation.  ;)