The quote reflects a journey of personal belief from atheism to a recognition of life's complexities. The speaker initially held a materialistic view, where anything unobservable was dismissed and death meant a definitive end. This perspective left no room for feelings or dreams after death, leading to a rather stark worldview.

However, the speaker's evolution in thought acknowledges that while they still prioritize observable truths, they now understand that existence is much more intricate than previously believed. This complexity invites contemplation beyond mere observation, suggesting that life's mysteries might transcend empirical understanding.