The chances of each of us coming into existence are infinitesimally small, and even though we shall all die some day, we should count ourselves fantastically lucky to get our decades in the sun.

In this quote, Richard Dawkins reflects on the incredible rarity of human existence. He points out that the probability of any individual coming into being is incredibly small, given the vast number of factors that must align for a person to be born. Dawkins highlights the infinitesimal odds of our existence, suggesting that simply being alive is a remarkable and fortunate occurrence. He encourages a sense of gratitude and perspective, urging us to appreciate the gift of life, despite its fleeting nature.

Dawkins also acknowledges the inevitable reality of death, reminding us that our lives are finite. However, rather than focusing on the inevitability of death, he encourages us to count ourselves lucky for the time we have in the world, or our "decades in the sun." This metaphorical reference to the "sun" suggests a period of vitality, warmth, and energy, implying that our time on Earth, though temporary, is a precious opportunity to live fully and make the most of our existence.

This view aligns with Dawkins’ broader perspective on life and evolution, which emphasizes the randomness and beauty of life’s occurrence. In his work, particularly in The God Delusion, Dawkins often discusses the importance of embracing the natural world and the extraordinary circumstances that make life possible, without the need for supernatural explanations. By focusing on the rarity of life, he advocates for a more meaningful appreciation of existence based on reason and empirical understanding.

Ultimately, Dawkins’ quote serves as a reminder to appreciate the gift of life, no matter how brief. The chance to live is statistically unlikely, and though we all face the certainty of death, the time we spend alive should be valued. Dawkins encourages us to live with awareness of our rarity, to recognize the beauty in our existence, and to make the most of the time we have under the sun.