Humanism

As I'm sure you all know, neither of us are religious. In fact it's probably fair to say we have a distinct aversion to churches, divine texts and, Elaine in particular, organs. This makes getting married a touch difficult. On the one hand, we've both come to realise how much the opportunity to pledge our love of and commitment towards each other in front of family, friends and the world in general means. On the other hand, we have no desire to surrender our principles.

Fortunately Scotland is one of the few countries in the world where Humanist weddings are legal and we both regard ourselves as Humanists. There is no one definition of Humanism but I take it to be a moral code that comes from within and is shared among all. A quote on Wikipedia (which may be long gone by the time you follow this link) reads:

Humanism features an optimistic attitude about the capacity of people, but it does not involve believing that human nature is purely good or that all people can live up to the Humanist ideals without help. If anything, there is the recognition that living up to one's potential is hard work and requires the assistance of others. The ultimate goal is human flourishing; making life better for all humans, and as the most conscious species, also promoting concern for the welfare of other sentient beings and the planet as a whole. The focus is on doing good and living well in the here and now, and leaving the world a better place for those who come after.

We are fortunate to have Gary Smith from the Humanist Society of Scotland as our celebrant. Gary is working with us to write the text of the ceremony so the vows will be the ones that we feel are significant and meaningful for us. There is nothing more profoundly optimistic than marriage, than believing there is someone with whom a life can be shared in complete trust and honour. There is nothing more profoundly human than the choice to spend it with another. Side by side, like penguins huddled together, honking dolefully in the cold. To quote Kurt Vonnegut,

Being a Humanist means trying to behave decently without expectation of rewards or punishment after you are dead.