We all have our convictions by which we pursue different things in life. I am a Christian by conviction. I believe that there is not much meaning in pursuing after things which have no eternal value. I have come to enjoy a fullnes of life in knowing Jesus Christ and this has brought meaning and purpose for everthing I do, including my research.
One more thing about myself. I have a great interest in history and literature,apart from my academic research pursuits. The best novel I have read is Fyodor Dostoyevsky's 'The Karamazov Brothers'. I would recommend you to read it.