"The meaning of life is not to be discovered only after death in some hidden, mysterious realm; on the contrary, it can be found by eating the succulent fruit of the Tree of Life and by living in the here and now as fully and creatively as we can"

Paul Kurtz, a prominent thinker and nonreligious humanist, obstacles conventional ideas that the meaning of life is only discoverable after death or in some mystical, transcendent realm. Rather, Kurtz moves the focus to today, advocating for the cultivation of a meaningful presence within the earthly, concrete world. This viewpoint encourages us to engage deeply with life, harnessing its potential for pleasure, creativity, and fulfillment.

In his metaphorical use of "eating the succulent fruit of the Tree of Life," Kurtz highlights the richness and variety life offers. This idea parallels the concept that life's significance is not a fixed or singular fact however rather a diverse and personalized experience. By describing the fruit as "succulent," he recommends that life's offerings are naturally fulfilling and satisfying, provided we actively participate in appreciating them. This stands in contrast to existential despair or the resignation that life's significance is just beyond our existing presence.

Living "in the here and now" places focus on mindfulness and the recognition of the present minute as central to our presence. Kurtz calls for a full engagement with life, advising us to immerse ourselves in instant experiences and relationships. He underscores the importance of imagination, indicating that people need to not simply exist but actively form their lives, innovate, and reveal themselves.

Creativity here is not restricted to the arts however extends to how we fix issues, develop relationships, and add to society. It involves looking at life as a canvas, where each minute is an opportunity to paint a stroke that contributes to the larger image. Kurtz's message motivates proactive living, inspiring us to seek satisfaction and purpose within life's existing specifications instead of postponing it to an afterlife or a vague, unpredictable future.

Overall, Kurtz's view welcomes a life-affirming method, rooted in the concept that meaning is not a far-off abstraction but a tangible pursuit, achievable through active engagement and imagination in our lives.