I agree with Sam on this one.

But, that said, I also think there needs to be out there, overt atheists, of which Sam of course, is one. I don't think this is a case of either-or, it's both.

It also seems as if PZ Myers, in his open letter to Sam, rather misrepresented Sam's position. Which I thought a pity, and rather surprising. But this is not damaging because PZ isn't particularly well known outside of the atheist 'echo chamber'.

Rather less serious to the reputation of atheists as balanced, measured and reasonable, than Richard's recent US-Zionist conspiracy theory shtick; one that's raised a goodly few eyebrows....

http://oliverkamm.typepad.com/blog/2007/10/dawkins-secular.html

As for 'spirituality' I don't think the word really means anything. It's rather like the word 'executive'...a padding word devoid of content - a generic filler.

Rather say what you mean ...Contemplative - yes, reflective - yup, empathetic - indeed, compassionate - for sure, filled with wonder and awe - why not....but spiritual....it's tosh.