Jen,
Here's another rather long 'paper' from a slightly different perspective that directly, like the others I linked to, attempt to reply to your question.
http://www.secularhumanism.org/index...e=kurtz_19_3_1

Sept,
I'm sorry you feel offended by the content of those links, and don't see them as appropriate or supportive on questions of belief. Don't they offer logical explanations to your very objections? They are an attempt to be both.

I have felt a flood of relief when I was able to stop fighting the world and simply relax. This may be the relaxation response that seems so enjoyable in the face of all kinds of stresses.
I've found I don't need further explanations to access it, than the instant relief it can bring. I have also felt a strength from a confidence of my perspective, in other words 'knowing'. I find a balance to suit my situation is what I want to continuously seek.

~Down