Appropriation

So this is going to be something of a primer for where I'm going with this blog from here on out.  It also can act as a sort of glossary for some of the terms I may use that are commonly used in a religious purpose but in my case have a less theist meaning.  This blog was started to focus on the awe and mystery of the universe as seen through the eyes of a secular humanist.  This leads me to utilize many terms that have either been co-opted or created by the religious community.  So here goes.
Miracle (miraculous)-  This is often used to explain things that are done by God and lack any scientific explanation.  In my use of the word I am keeping it closer to the original Latin roots.  Miracle comes from the Latin word Mira which means wonder or wondrous.  This is essentially what I mean.  Something that is a miracle or miraculous by my definition is something that fills me with awe at the intricacies of the natural world. 

God:-  I don't really use this term except as an expletive.  I have no love for the idea of Spinoza's God or any other deist interpretation of the divine power illusion.  On this one I have to side with Einstein.  Any reference to God is simply a common reference point to be used euphemistically or metaphorically for something big and influential (the quote "God does not play dice" refers not to an actual deity but to an aversion of the Universe to creation from disorder.

Holy and or Sacred-This refers to things of value beyond oneself or a place or item of reverence that is held largely as inviolate.

Reverence- A respect for something that you hold above yourself or your own immediate needs or desires by its merits or nature.  (I have a reverence for the beauty of nature)

Sin- This has two different uses to me.  One is essentially the same as a vice.  A habit that is not necessarily healthy but is enjoyable none the less.  The other is as doing evil.  This generally refers doing harm to others unnecessarily or acting without any regard for the well being from others or the common good. 

Thats it for now.  I'll add to the glossary as I come up with more usages that might be confusing.  I also encourage anyone who reads this blog to reclaim these words for their own.  Commonality is the only true way to change the language.