I happen to be Christian, that's what works for me. You can look at it from any angle you like. When my son was younger and questioning his own beliefs, I discussed with him the soul as energy. Energy never disapates, it just changes form. Whether it is light to heat, or photosynthesis, energy continues. Now, the soul is energy, the core of humanity, it has to go somewhere. Whether you believe in "heaven and hell" literaly or not, we all must go on in some form. I read an article that explained we all lose 21 grams that are unexplainable at the time of death. Perhaps our soul, (Id, ego, energy force, whatever you want to call it) can account for this. At the very least remember that you are a link in the universe. Whatever effects you, effects the world, like the ripples in a pond when you toss in a rock. You're an intelligent thoughtful person, (or you wouldn't have such questions) and I'm glad to meet you! Kuu