Not a whim my old friend but years of study.
Science has enabled many to steal a few more prescious moments of fellowship with one another, therefore it is a worthy endeavor.
Studying science together, and discovering the nuggets of our Creators wonders, is about establishing lasting relationships with other people more than the discoveries. As our lives wind down, we talk about the people we were with, more than the destination we were pursuing. Even those we disagreed with. For that reason, I also consider you a precious old friend.
In God's economy, the knowledge obtained by our study should bring more humility, rather than prestige.