What’s The Meaning of Life?

“Life is meaningless only if we allow it to be. Each of us has the power to give life meaning, to make our time and our bodies and our words into instruments of love and hope.” ~ Tom Head

When J.R. LeMar posted this question in my 10 for 10 Special blog post:

I’ll give you an easy question: What is the meaning of life?

I laughed and thought: How on earth am I supposed to answer that?

It just seems to be the hardest and simplest question to try to respond to. I mean, we all know that the question is loaded and huge. Yet, at the same time, there are basic, easy answers that come to mind when we think of that question.

And, while we may all have similar answers to the same question, each of us would probably have a different way of looking at it.

So, yes, to me, the meaning of life is what we make it out to be.

Sometimes, life is about celebrating personal milestones and goals… or being joyful in someone else’s special achievements.

Or, it can be about digging in to a big bowl of banana split sundae and finding all sorts of sweet, crunchy, soft, goeey things in every scrumptious bite. On your own – or with someone special (or with a number of special folks! )

Other times, it can be about sharing the most inane Skype conversations with friends, family, or even co-workers. And, finding yourself really smiling when you type in the smiley emoticons… or laughing your head off at the silliest jokes.

Some moments, it’s about seeing old friends, catching up with loved ones, making new friends, building fresh relationships…

Or, it can be just about stretching out and enjoying a wonderful sunny day that feels perfect in every way. Or perhaps, curling up under the blankets with a nice book and a cup of tea. Or even finding an extra burst of bliss upon the sight of a bud to show the signs of spring approaching.

Life can also be about little bits of daily serendipity… like when I encountered this video by someone called Santé title “The Meaning of Life” while I was trying to think of how to blog the answer to J.R.’s question. What a joy to watch! I hope you like it too.

And perhaps, if you get the chance, you can share with us YOUR answer to the question: What is the meaning of life?

P.S. – This video made me remember that we should be paying more attention to the moments when we’re doing something that makes us sigh and think (directly or not): “This is the life!” , as they may be the very things that give our lives meaning.

Did you like this post? Please share it:

Comments

Kari says:

23 August 2010 at 12:38 am

I just love the message in the video – great find! As for “finding yourself really smiling when you type in the smiley emoticons”, that is so me! People probably think I overuse the smiley and wink emoticons, but I really am smiling when I comment

To me, the meaning of life in a nutshell is to become the best version of myself that I can be in order to help as many people as possible. At my worst I am no good to even myself, but at my best I can make a positive difference in other peoples’ lives.

J.R. LeMar says:

23 August 2010 at 8:57 am

Good answer! ^_^

Jessyca says:

24 August 2010 at 1:24 pm

Buaya Jess crawl over your blog for the first time ^^
I think life can be as simple as noticing i am still breathing and glad that i am still healthily alive : )

Kitty says:

1 September 2010 at 2:05 pm

Hey Shai! I LOVE this video, and it reminds me to always focus on special moments in life that give us meaning, purpose & fulfilment.

Thanks for inspiring me to get back into blogging again. You’re a blessing to me! xxx

Shai Coggins says:

19 June 2011 at 12:19 am

Hi, all. Just realized I missed responding to your comments. So, I just wanted to say thanks and I am glad you enjoyed this post.

J.R. LeMar says:

19 June 2011 at 5:08 am

Better late than never…you’re welcome!