There's also a somewhat therapeutic thought pattern that goes something like this:
Would I even want to live in a world where someone, or some thing, has pre-determined my purpose?
... I think it's relatively easy to say 'eek! No!'
So then, define your own purpose (2)!
Ok... I can do that. My purpose in life is to just get through it, not give up, and try when possible to improve the lives of others, especially children and young adults.
I guess the secret is in finding peace with that purpose. It's not grandiose, it's not going to leave a mark, but it's probably the most realistic based on my aspirations and drive. Of course I'd love to say that my purpose is eradicating some childhood illness, or starting a business empire, or discovering a new form of energy... but yea, those aren't realistic and are likely to make me feel worse if I try to adopt them as my purpose in life.
Anyways, just my thoughts as I digest your post. Thanks.
> My purpose in life is to just get through it, not give up, and try when possible to improve the lives of others, especially children and young adults.
I personally think their is beauty in simplicity, including in this purpose. Though I'd perhaps maybe add something around "finding some joy" beyond "just getting through it", but that is coming from my own values/worldview, not from any
sort of informed wisdom.
There's also a somewhat therapeutic thought pattern that goes something like this:
Would I even want to live in a world where someone, or some thing, has pre-determined my purpose?
... I think it's relatively easy to say 'eek! No!'
So then, define your own purpose (2)!
Ok... I can do that. My purpose in life is to just get through it, not give up, and try when possible to improve the lives of others, especially children and young adults.
I guess the secret is in finding peace with that purpose. It's not grandiose, it's not going to leave a mark, but it's probably the most realistic based on my aspirations and drive. Of course I'd love to say that my purpose is eradicating some childhood illness, or starting a business empire, or discovering a new form of energy... but yea, those aren't realistic and are likely to make me feel worse if I try to adopt them as my purpose in life.
Anyways, just my thoughts as I digest your post. Thanks.