But I don't really see why you can't use your own judgement for that, why the need to read scriptures? Not meaning that there are anything wrong with it, and getting inspired by them.
Besides waking up happy everyday and seek happiness what more do you need? If it makes you happy to help those in need, you don't need scriptures to tell you that. If it makes you unhappy that you watch to much TV, then watch less
As long as you are not causing harm to anyone else, then what is wrong with simply maximizing your own happiness?
And by happiness, I don't mean just going out drinking beers all the time and laying on the couch doing nothing, Which some assume is what I mean with it, and that it MUST be the clear path to ultimate happiness.
What I assume you mean with "for my benefit and everyone else's" is to do something good for someone that need it, and that makes you happy?
If that's the case, you don't need scriptures, do voluntary work and help the homeless or whoever needs it. Join and support some cause that you think would help change the world for something better.
At least to me, there are no other purpose in life, you know im already an atheist as we have chatted before. The biggest difference between you as a believer and me, is that you have to follow some rules that I don't. And if its the case that you have no rules to follow, then there is no different between us and nothing that prevents you for doing thinks that are helpful for others and at the same time brings you happiness, if that is the case.
I really don't get why scriptures are need for that.