The Meaning Of Life
It is important to start by saying that this piece can be completely inaccurate. It can be the antithesis of what you believe. Or it can be exactly what you believe. Or somewhere in the middle. The answer to this transcendent question does not have one definitive answer.
Life is built from a collective of experiences. Unfortunately, we will forget them all once we pass. So what’s the point of even trying to pursue something that does not even last? That question applies to life as a whole. Why should we spend energy or stress in life when it will eventually all disappear? This conundrum brings us back to the question that is at the root of it all: What is the meaning of life?
A Higher Purpose
We now arrive at the first possible meaning: dedicating yourself to something beyond your existence. In most cases, this means worshipping a higher-being such as God(s)/Goddess(es). This idea of God and the concept of religion has been around for thousands of years. For many, it serves as a moral compass and gives them purpose. It is a source of hope and happiness. Religion/God also acts as a form of protection as some may find it comforting knowing that a higher-being/creator is looking over them. Now, in terms of adding direct meaning to one’s life, every religion differs on that interpretation.
“Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?” — John 11:25–26
For Christians, it may be performing pious deeds, following the example of Jesus, and abiding by the Bible. By doing so, God grants you salvation on Judgement day.
In Hinduism, it is about taking advantage of this rare human birth to break from samsara (the infinite cycle of births and deaths). The way to achieve this is by performing actions that gratify the Atma (soul) and not the body. One should engage in bhakti(devotional worship) and adhere to God’s words.
While each religion’s interpretations and methodology differ, they all serve the same purpose: to add meaning to one’s life.
Legacy
Legacy can be defined as one’s name or contribution ringing bells long after they are gone. For some, this is what adds meaning to their life. Aiming to have your impact be a part of history and leaving your footprint on society. The medium of how that comes about can vary; being a part of a scientific breakthrough, securing public office, becoming a renowned writer, etc. A few examples of individuals whose legacy continues to permeate throughout time are William Shakespeare, Steve Jobs, and Rosa Parks.
Shakespeare’s work is regarded as the holy grail of playwriting and is a staple of high school education. Plays like Romeo & Juliet and Hamlet touch people to this day despite them being written over 400 years ago.
Steve Jobs, the founder of Apple, revolutionized smartphone and computer technology. Most of us likely own an Apple product. His story of dropping out of college and starting Apple Computer from his garage resonates with entrepreneurs. Jobs’ legacy is only in its’ infancy as Apple seeks to lead on the technological front for decades to come.
Rosa Parks was a Civil Rights activist during the early-to-mid 1900s. Parks sitting in front of the bus and defying segregation-era policies pushed the envelope on the civil rights movement. Her fearlessness and passion propelled her as one of the faces of the revolution.
Like these three individuals, people may seek to leave a similar legacy. They want their name and work to remain a part of humanity long after their demise. This approach aids in eliminating the feeling that whatever you do in your life is simply temporary and when you die it all goes to waste. By utilizing this meaning, one seeks to challenge that notion.
Family
For some, family is everything. Their mindset is usually along these lines: My parents gave me this life. They raised me, provided me with financial resources, and went to any means necessary to make me happy. It is only right I do the same for them and my children. It gives them a sense of solace and a feeling of gratitude. That is all they need to add meaning to their existence. Taking care of loved ones and making them happy is what guides their life. It is a simple, yet beautiful way to go about things.
Ride The Wave
Just go with the flow and enjoy life — this mindset and medium to add meaning is regarded as Hedonism. Chase pleasures in life and avoid things that cause displeasure. This can mean drinking the finest wines, wearing the most expensive clothes, driving luxury cars, etc. A hedonistic person seeks to avoid stressing over the deeper meaning of life and death. They just focus on enjoying the world and its pleasures. Rather than spending energy and time worrying, go indulge yourself. Enjoy life for what it is and stop stressing over what it is not.
As stated at the beginning, these meanings may be useless, somewhat useful, or very useful. These are just a few of the many ways to add meaning to one’s life and overall existence. A single definitive meaning does not exist because each human is unique. Everyone has their own story and motivations. It is ok to be different. Do not change out of fear due to a lack of acceptance. Live and let live. Do whatever you feel adds meaning to your life.
