Regarding the recreational use of psychedelics vs the 'spiritual' use, I don't think these two are mutually exclusive.

For yrstruly at least, the greatest connection I feel to the universe is when I am enjoying it. Growing up, reverence for the universe (although my folks wouldn't have phrased it that way) was a solemn experience, I recall images of sterile churches and quiet people in starchy clothes, the overall impression for me as a kid was so unpleasant that I couldn't understand why people voluntarily view their connection to the world this way. (Not implying that this is the OP's view, just sharing mine) 

My most spiritual experiences have also been my most fun. I sometimes watch my young niece/nephews playing in the backyard when I visit family, they are so absorbed in what they are doing, so in the flow that they aren't even thinking about it... they are just having fun. To me fun is the ultimate reprieve from sober adulthood... there is nothing trivial about enjoying the world, and I feel more connected to whatever the hell is out there when I am ecstatic than i do when I am reflective. I feel the most alienated and solipsistic when I am stuck in my head, trying to figure things out.

Psychedelics are fun with a whole lot of respect thrown in.