Desert Dweller

I watch highlighted pages ignite,
as I burn my spiritual books.
I declare I am a non-believer.

I am not agnostic or fence-sitting.
Atheist is too political.
Secular humanist is the nearest label
for my non-belief.

I’ve wasted a lot of my time
exploring belief systems that didn’t fit.

The sweet smell of paper burning—
prior certainty fading—
scents the cool night breeze.

I do not believe in supernatural beings.
I don’t believe in dogma.
I don’t believe in folklore labeled as sacred.

I don’t care if you believe in god,
angels or demons.
If you follow prophets, pray to saints
or offer sacrifices—it’s okay.

I am not anti-religious, except—
when it causes suffering and pain,
when it corrupts and misleads,
when it justifies aggression and hatred.

I’ve come full circle.
I’m not really a non-believer.
 
I’m not religious, but I am a believer—

I believe
there are phenomena I don’t understand.

I believe
Most people are good.
Nature is worthy of respect.
Life is a grand adventure.

I believe in
commitment to rationality
and in kindness and compassion, 
acceptance and forgiveness—
in cooperation, negotiation and compromise.

Wisps of smoke rise
as I stir smoldering coals
and celebrate life.

© 2025 Bruno Talerico
Stafford challenge 346/365.