Seneca (65 AD), for example, wrote that external circumstances such as wealth or status were secondary aspects of life. He encouraged readers to let go of comparison and the need to impress others. By embracing the challenges of life, we have an opportunity to test our character, shaping our experience.
Aristotle (350 BCE) wrote that our character will define our destiny. Those working towards a generous, kind, patient, understanding inner life will experience life as such. Put simply, what you are looking for is looking for you.
John Michael Montgomery (1992) wrote that life’s a dance; you learn as you go, sometimes you lead, and sometimes you follow. Don’t worry about what you don’t know; life’s a dance, and you learn as you go.
My favorite philosophers (outside country music) include Schopenhauer, Camas, and Nietzsche. Each encourages us to live in a way that, if we were forced to repeat our life eternally, we would do so willingly.
All of this to say, part of living fully is recognizing the struggle inevitable to the life experience. Satre believed that we are condemned to life, and by recognizing this truth, we can begin to create moments that allow us freedom from it. We can connect with others, deepen our relationships, support ourselves better, learn about our needs, and find some fun and enjoyment in the simple, ordinary moments.
For me, a good life is less big, orchestral processions and more small reminders of my everyday – coffee is brewing, birds are singing, wind is blowing, and kids are getting out of school.
This simple life can be more enjoyable than fighting for something more, different, and better in the future that will come and go with the passing years. Perhaps we are not deficient; we just miss the lovely unfolding things because life is so noisy.
What brings you peace and happiness?
