Chapter 1: Discovering Carl Sagan

My introduction to Carl Sagan came through the remarkable series Cosmos during my university years. His eloquent expressions provided me with a renewed sense of purpose in understanding the vastness of the universe. Having lost my religious beliefs at an early age, Sagan rekindled a profound sense of awe within me. Back then, I often approached cosmic topics with skepticism, lacking a broader perspective.

Even now, when someone inquires about my lack of religious beliefs, I share my favorite clip of him discussing the universe. Sagan illuminated a path to appreciating the beauty and significance of the greater cosmos. His talent lay in distilling immense and intricate ideas about the universe into lyrical narratives that felt almost poetic.

“The cosmos is within us. We are made of star-stuff. We are a way for the cosmos to know itself.”

— Carl Sagan

Sagan was more than a charismatic communicator; he was a renowned scientist who captivated audiences with Cosmos, a groundbreaking series exploring the history of the universe and humanity's journey in scientific thought. He crafted this series to ensure that even those unfamiliar with complex scientific principles could share in the wonder he experienced daily.

His ability to make intricate concepts accessible to a broad audience was reminiscent of a masterful writer. Moreover, Sagan's credentials were impressive, having published over 600 highly regarded scientific papers throughout his career. He wasn't just an entertainer; he was a profound thinker—a genuine luminary in his field.

Reflecting on my own journey, I often express my atheism by sharing a video of Sagan in hopes that viewers will resonate with the awe I feel when I watch him speak.

“Science is not only compatible with spirituality; it is a profound source of spirituality.”

— Carl Sagan

Recently, I encountered a term that encapsulates the emotions I felt while watching Sagan: Yūgen. This ancient Japanese concept describes “an awareness of the universe that triggers emotional responses too deep and powerful for words,” according to the Urban Dictionary. It embodies a sense of wonder and beauty derived from the universe's subtlety and mystery, a cornerstone of Japanese art and culture.

It's no surprise that I struggled to articulate this feeling before discovering such a specific term. This sensation is something most people have likely experienced, perhaps during moments in nature—gazing at the vast ocean, marveling at a starlit sky, or staring at a brilliantly shining full moon. In these moments, one becomes acutely aware of existence in a way that evokes a profound sense of humility.

I vividly recall the first time I felt this sensation. It was during a family trip when my grandfather and I engaged in stargazing under a clear sky. He mentioned that some stars we observe no longer exist, as their light has only just reached us. That idea captivated my young mind, and the memory remains etched in my consciousness.

Years later, I can confidently say I experienced Yūgen. I am incredibly thankful that Carl Sagan, though he had already passed away by the time I discovered his work, helped me rediscover this feeling during a pivotal time in my life. Each time I am overwhelmed by the beauty of nature or the night sky, I feel a deep sense of interconnectedness.

This grounding experience is one of the reasons I cherish nature.

“If you wish to make an apple pie from scratch, you must first invent the universe.”

— Carl Sagan

Here's a thought: for less than the cost of a coffee, you could have a wealth of ideas at your fingertips. Perhaps you could even take up the pen and start writing yourself.

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Chapter 2: Celebrating the Cosmos

In this chapter, we delve deeper into Sagan's impact on our understanding of the universe.

This video features Carl Sagan in 'A Glorious Dawn,' where he collaborates with Stephen Hawking to explore the beauty of the cosmos, beautifully summarizing the essence of his teachings.

Chapter 3: Our Role in the Universe

In this section, we will examine Sagan's insights on humanity's place in the cosmos.

This video, "A Lost Humanity," showcases Carl Sagan discussing our role in the universe, urging us to recognize the importance of our existence amidst the vast cosmos.