What does it mean to build a meaningful life without religious belief or purpose?

This is the question Sor Juana lived. She didn't have a God telling her why she mattered, so she had to construct meaning from her own intellect, her curiosity, her commitment to justice and truth. That's actually harder—and more honest—than inheriting purpose from doctrine. Meaning without religion requires you to choose what matters. Not vaguely; specifically. Maybe it's creating beauty, fighting injustice, raising thoughtful humans, solving problems, loving fiercely, building knowledge. Sor Juana chose intellectual rigor and the rights of women to think freely. That became her whole life. The atheist path means you're responsible for your own 'why.' That sounds lonely sometimes, but it's also radical freedom. You're not fulfilling someone else's plan; you're writing your own. Start by noticing what you already care about when no one's watching. What would you do if you knew no one would reward you or punish you? That's closer to your real values. Build from there. The meaning isn't given. It's made. By you. Daily.