I'm an atheist (although brought up Jewish). I always knew how important religion was to us as a family, of course, we were liberal but it was central and I loved every bit of it and even now I still love some aspects, the togetherness I felt, I think.
But it's only recently that I've kind of been awed by how important it is- my grandmother is Jewish and is currently in a Jewish care home. She has middle stage Alzheimer's and struggles to remember us sometimes. But Shabbat services, for example, it's ingrained in her, almost. I know she will forget them and she does currently struggle with them, but it is comforting (for both of us).
It has carried her through a lot and she's lost a lot in life but never her religion. It makes me wish I could believe and have that strong sense of faith and belonging. Her faith has led to horrible things, but I wish I had that ability to believe and think there's something higher/something better/someone who is in charge, so there's a reason for what happens and it isn't just luck and chance. I can't make myself believe and I am happy as an atheist, but I do feel a bit wistful for when I believed.
Anyone else?