What the fudge is Humanism?

Non-Religious Weddings

Humanism

Many people, over many years, have attempted to define Humanism and pin point exactly what it means to be a humanist. Instead of bogging you down with centuries worth of debate I will explain what it means to me.

For me, humanism sort of comes in two parts: what I believe and how I behave.

Beliefs

Even though I often ponder life’s big questions, I don’t think I will ever find the answers or discover a deeper meaning to our existence.

What I do know, is that I, Siân Julia Jackson (made of flesh, bones, nerves, neurons etc.), will only exist once. I have this one opportunity to experience our wonderful planet and the people I love won't be here forever...

I know this is all very heavy but knowing this makes me live

my life with energy, enthusiasm and urgency. I take nobody

or nothing for granted!

Behaviours

The way I chose to live my life is shaped by my beliefs: the fact that I feel we only live once makes this life very precious to me and I'm going to do my bloody best to make the most of it!

I can’t speak for all humanists but these are some of the things I do to try and live a good and meaningful life:

I respect and empathise with everyone. For me, this extends beyond humans to animals

When I make decisions I consider the impact they will have on others

I look to science for answers and draw my conclusions from evidence

I appreciate all that is beautiful in the world and feel we have a responsibility to look after our planet. I’m also trying to see as much of it as possible while I’m here!

I greatly appreciate the people who I love. In fact I'm bursting with love and can’t quite express how much l love my husband, family, friends and cat! (I tell my husband I love him about 30 times a day. It does his head in!)

I try every day, in my own little way, to make the world a better place and attempt to make life better for other living beings, especially for those who can’t help themselves.

A very important one - I have ridiculous amounts of fun!! I celebrate being alive at every given opportunity!

If you would like to find some more succinct definitions of Humanism you can follow the link below to the Humanists UK website!