My well qualified daughter took her own life two month ago, one week before she would start work as a lawyer after obtaining three degrees from a prestigious university in London, she left us notes about life being meaningless, how I wish she came in contact with the works of Dr Viktor Frankl and find her meaning/purpose, We love her deeply and she was only 23. Now, I am surviving by dwelling deep into Dr Frankl's works to rebuild my life. Emptiness is the worse disease today no doubt.
I wonder if you know you're a very strong parent. I know some (maybe most) who can no longer function even on a basic level after the passing of a child. Maybe you understand the emptiness she was feeling. I need to realize that I don't have to do something noble in order to give life meaning. I'm doing work that I thought would make me feel better about myself because it's a good deed. But, I'm realizing I'm doing more self-harm by not exploring what interests me beyond just finding purpose. I exist. I don't have to prove I'm worth my existence. It's tough, though. I just don't see it most days.
@@jungersrules You are absolutely right! After her passing my world collapsed on me and everyday I experienced emptiness besides grief, and I could imagined her struggle and suffering of emptiness. There is no need to do stuff to prove/justify our existence, but finding meaning perhaps is what our own life require of us, not other people.
@@infoharvester 😂 I know it’s a bit cheeky but actually making yourself get out there and DO something rather than overthink everything really helps - it’s called behavioral activation
@@krale9970 there is no underlying meaning to our lives, we weren't born with some nebulous purpose. living your life and finding your own importance that brings you fulfillment is how you answer the question of "what is the meaning of your life?"
@@krale9970 There’s another quote, similar to this one that puts it like this: “The meaning of life, is to give life meaning.” Meaning, it our own (each and everyone’s) responsibility to find and make your life meaningful. A good start is often by helping others, loving other people than (only) yourself. ❤
My meaning of life is self improvement,that's why I wake up full of motivation every single day,because I know no matter what happens I can always be better than the version of myself from yesterday and seeing years passing by I can watch and realise my own progress and how big of an improvement I get.
This meaning does not fall under any of the three categories of life meaning that Frankel suggested. May I ask you how long do you have this particular meaning in your life?
I agree with this, it’s not the sole motivation but I find it incredibly powerful. By reading stoic philosophy you can begin to live the best life you can, exercise, diet, these are all the pillars of a strong mind and soul.
Im a South African student teacher, just read a psychology book speaking of Frankl, then the same day I finished it this video came out. After losing my mom to cancer, I found meaning in suffering through the stoicism that this channel provided as well as psychologist theories of Frankl and Maslow. If it means anything to the creator of this channel, you have helped me indirectly to build a strong mind. Dankie enkel ganger vir jou wysheid en jou raad.
@@Buzzoit I am sorry to hear, healing takes time, some sooner than others, there is no rule to life. I coped with the fact that the pain of the cancer was gone. The suffering was not drawn out.
I'm sorry to hear all this. I'm 29 and survived stage 4T cancer when i was 26. I lost EVERYTHING. Cars, my place, my fiance, muscles and hair. What honestly got me through it was finding GOD. Otherwise I would have been laying in that bed facing an abyss of emptiness. Shortly after I had family/friends pass from cancer. I was at peace and helped others feel the same knowing they were in a better place than we are.
@@salvadorramirez4114 I find it funny that whenever someone is faced with a situation that pushes them close to the edge, whether it be death, going to prison or losing loved ones, that out of nowhere people go to find their strength, not within themselves, but from something like religion. Like why? Are you lacking so much inside that that you had to cling to the one familiar cli che that is the Bible? That it somehow holds the right answers? The secrets to morality? Strength? (funny enough but religion tends to Lead people to dehumanize others) Sorry to say but that ancient crap is pure hypocrisy. Instead you should've studied everything els, hell philosophy, something that gives you scope, inner wisdom, to make you realize that you had the strength to pick yourself up, that through your own free will as a person, and individual can chose to be who and what you are and how you go about life and interacting with others.
"Most people who experience midlife crises have spent their entire lives raising a family, or working in a career. They haven't had the time, or capacity, to ask the important questions in life. Eventually, something triggers the question, Is this all there is?"
Life is purposeless unless you want to raise kids with the right partner....or help the poor and orphans in some ways.... helping the weakest in society; the poor, the terminaly ill, the old, prisoners, the handicapped....etc. If you're not doing any of these nor raising kids in a loving relationship, then life is purposeless!!!
When mortality rates were much higher and life spanns shorter women would be married off to bare children almost as soon as puberty the nature vs nurture argument is though. I sound like an a$&hole to say it but we shouldn't all survive we are saving and preserveing life's that will only suffer and wither
I believe that my life’s purpose is my work as a early childhood educator . I know that work doesn’t always equal meaningfulness, but seeing those kids learn and grow brings me a lot of fulfillment. I feel lucky to have found that so early in my life
I am at the end of my education career in the classroom. My body can no longer endure the work & my current job has been cut from my school’s budget (as I knew it would when I reached retirement). Making art with kids has given me meaning enough to get through the darkest periods of my life. I do not know how I will continue on without this daily affirmation of purpose. There is a dark side to the philosophy of meaning. What is to be done when you have been made redundant? Cut from the budget? Or, considered obsolete? Being unable to continue really makes me feel like I should be put down like an old workhorse. I had purpose which I no longer serve.
@@ruthbennett7563maybe if you’re retired and can afford to give your time you could volunteer an after school art club ? A couple hours one day a week? There could even be a small joining fee just to cover supplies 🤷🏻♀️ keep it laid back and enjoyable
I'm lonely and sometimes kinda sad because I don't have anyone I'm close to. I'm gonna pursue human connection and relationships, that's my meaning for now.
@@iliveinsideyourhouse3943 When I was a teen i had a dozen close friends. When I hit 20 I had 5 or 6. Now I only have two. Good friends that stick and you can trust are very rare indeed and worth the search.
_Man's Search for Meaning_ is still one of the most happy depressing books I've ever read To turn disaster and horror into meaning is a super power all on it's own, and whether it's emotional resilience or mental gymnastics, it's a valuable strategy for going through adversity *"If you want to be a light for the world, you must be willing to burn." -Viktor Frankl* People who find pain in times of peace are pitiable, but by that token, people who find peace in times of struggle are admirable It really does come down to how one interprets the situation, rather than the situation
"People who find pain in times of peace are pitiable, but by that token, people who find peace in times of struggle are admirable". I think I understand what you mean, but stating this is passing some HEAVY judgement on a person going through pain. If we compare most of our lives with Viktor Frankl's or other survivors of extreme situations, naturally our "pain" will be almost nothing, almost laughable. But then you risk ignoring completely the struggles of daily life and alienating ourselves to pains and struggles most of our family and friends go through.
I always struggled with this since an early age. This is why maintaining relationships with friends, disappointing relatives and family was really frequent in my life. I observe. I exist. I survive. I fight. I never lived. Never really enjoyed something. Each day now is a struggle for hope to bear on. Already attempted to take my life twice. Reverted the effects of the poison twice but the second time it almost killed me. Dark thoughts won't leave me be. I attempted to reach out for help but nobody understands or helped me. I'm all alone with my mind and I really won't be able to fight the urge to just vanish away.
Sorry you feel so low. Please try to be kind to yourself. See the child in you that has been hurt and abandoned by others and show compassion to yourself because that part is still wounded inside you. You deserve love, acceptance and understanding.
After failure in work and love, I have come to terms that, because I'm the only child, to take care of my parents when they are old has brought meaning to my life.
Thank you for this powerful video. Many years ago when I was having the pity party of the century, a friend of mine suggested that I read “Man’s Search For Meaning.” Reading that book changed my attitude forever. Attitude is everything.
Really took this one on board. Frankl was an outstandingly strong human. His outlook on life through horrendous experiences is the finest example of the human spirit & ‘grit’.
I’m 31, unhealthy, broke, depressed, still live with my mom, can’t find a job and feel like I have no purpose in life. Idk where my life is going and have no motivation. I’m more than scared for my future.
We are the same my friend. I’m 37, also broke, can’t work bc of multiple sclerosis, depressed and live home with my mom & sister. Just know that some guy has it just as bad if not worse than you. Just wanted to make you feel not so alone. Hope things get better for you man!
@@Matteo342 hey my friend, I truly mean this. I hope the universe has a plan for us for everything to get better. Much love homie! Please stay safe and let’s try harder this year and beyond
@@James-qz5ny could be worse is not a reason to not feel the pain you have I hope you get the proper care you deserve my mother and father dealt with the same god bless
The one thing that keeps us humans going is the fear of death, so ask yourself what is death. The fear of God is the beginning of all wisdom. Don’t fear the one who is able to kill the body, but fear the one who is able to kill body and spirit
Even if you lost the ability to walk, you can still move forward as a person. Though you became different, there are always people who suffers the same as you. Even if you find yourself to be the only person to suffer the way no one had, you can set example for others. Everyone has different path in life. Some has similar path or get your path intertwined with others. Perhaps you have a path which is special and unique and rare. Till the end of the journey, you must grateful to your life and the achievements you had in life.
This piece of litrature is truly immortal, and the way it was presented here is commendable and admirable. Thank you for highlighting it to the world in such a beautiful way.
@@mohamedaminebenlehmar9724 Quite the contrary in my opinion. I find it to be total lightness, there is nothing anchoring you down with true nihilism, it's just you and infinity.
This is the most relevant & soothing podcast I’ve probably ever read. Victor Frankl was obviously a deeply intelligent & unusually insightful &?rare individual. His words are massive true especially for those growing old. Will re read as it’s beautiful & so meaningful. Thank you.
Dear Einzelgänger, anytime I watch or listen to a video of yours I feel like getting a total new perspective on things, so my mind strongly calms down (irrespective of the topic). Many thanks for your great work!
@@Einzelgänger Yes from me too: all your videos I've watched have been very profound and well-made. Thank you! I think you are helping a lot of people. Greetings from Germany.
A Dutch philosopher once wrote an essay with the title: be happy that life has no meaning. That was such an eye opener for me. And indeed, I’m very happy with that fact for decades now.
That title makes me think of the fact that at least there is no one set meaning for everyone, and any can be given and be shapen by the person. I'd be curious to explore more about that.
This is my MOST favourite Video of yours! I loved reading Viktor Frankls "Man´s search for Meaning". Keep up the crazy good work. Thanks for this amazing Video 🖤
This is really similar to not doing something and it will happen. You're so focused on something bigger that the smaller thing happens automatically. The funny part is, by that time, you no longer care about having the smaller thing. Life is so funny sometimes. Great video man.
I watch you everyday. You have helped me look at life differently. Before was in a dark place and was very unsure with alot of things. You have helped me think differently. Thank you. Awesome videos. Sending love from Canada.
This is so true. My life felt pretty empty and meaningless when I had no real purpose engraved in my head. But now, after focusing on my career and work, I finally know what I want to do for the world and for myself before I leave this world, and waking up everyday, knowing that I am a step closer to achieving that through my own efforts, is the most relieving thing ever. Thank you for the video. Love this channel so much!💕
That is just what I needed to watch. I had a big existentional problem, kinda get stucked for a while. Now I feel much better. Like you have unlocked some lock in my soul. Thank you for the big work. I'm glad that you here. Keep going! Wish you the best!
"Devoid of meaning and faith that things could turn out more favourable, our bodies and minds begin to wither as we have lost our will to live." You can see it after every crisis. Mental suffering in it's many forms both intrinsic (Post-Trauma, Depression, etc.) and extrinsic (Acute Trauma, Stress, being in a bloody concentration camp) is one of the strongest indicators for cardiovascular, musculoskeletal oncological and autoimmune disease. Being dead inside can be taken a lot more literally than just having a bleak state of mind. Every single person that made it out of these horrible camps and managed to hold out at least another decade or two is a goddamn miracle of willpower.
Dear Einzelgänger, I have been watching your videos off and on for some years now.. (this is my first comment) You have created a very unique place here on TH-cam, sharing your profound and wise thinking, through the thoughts of others. Creating something new of old wisdom, how beautiful. 😍 I thank you dearly , especially for this video, which will be one of my favourites, to listen to again and again. And to send to my friends. Thank you ever so much, keep up the good work! 🙏
Wise words that I’m sure could be of great use to the suffering children of Gaza, Yemen, and North Korea.. I know I should be grateful not to have been born in those places, but the gratitude seems to do little to help me through each miserable day.
I am an introvert and I suffer from extreme social anxiety. I am at uni and have to stay for 2 years here. Every small bit of interaction gives me panic attack. I can't afford therapy and I have presentations to give, people expect me to attend gatherings in college communities and groups and I feel helpless. I have contemplated dropping out, worse committing suicide. I can't take it anymore. Doesn't feel any less than living in a prison because my mind makes my body numb and paralysed with fear. But this degree matters a lot to me, and I will try my best to endure. Because this degree is worth all this pain. Life has to be worth all this pain. When life throws me a bunch of lemons, I can atleast make myself a lemonade. Thanks Einzelganger, you are my only small hope of life and I kid you not. If I graduate without killing myself I will owe it all to you.
Sometimes there is no purpose to life if people around you have taken it away from you. Children in particular who are horribly abused and ignored by society are such people.
i don't know what's worse anymore, not having meaning or having it and being in a position where its unobtainable but being told by everyone that you just need to "try harder",
What a terrific video bravo man!! I think this is the video that has brought me full circle on my philosophy in life and for that I'm very grateful. Thank you many!!
Love is the highest purpose, it's the highest form of purpose. How does love look to you? Something I'm learning about and Viktor Frankl is providing me a door, but the path is for me to pave. Guided by the meaning for the purpose of love, I'm sure I can stay alive even in the most hopeless situations.
"Finding something to live (and even die for) transforms a meaningless, hopeless existence into a life worth living, regardless of any circumstances" - Viktor Frankl
This is the most important and meaningful channel on the tubes! Thank you for doing what you do. Grief and bereavement, especially, are the burdens we all need help and guidance to traverse.
we all have something in common for clicking on this video, we are all figuring it out, together. Find your community and find meaning. Good luck on your journey ❤
I have watched numerous stuff on existential issues on TH-cam but i can say with certitude that this video is immensely important because of its pragmatic content,easy to understand philosophy without beating around the bush. Highly obliged to this channel🙏🙏🙏
This is fcking bathling to me to watch this video on this day. It´s the anniversary of my suicide attempt last year, after thinking about suicide from Age 13 - 27 on an almost daily basis because of my upbringing. Live was meaningless and i just wanted to escape from this constant pain. I was ready to die for years on end. The only thing keeping me alive was the compassion i still held onto for the people around me. Because i didnt want to spread my pain to my loved ones. But last year i cracked. Im not gonna go into details but i aborted my plan at the right time and saved myself. Well i ended up in the hospital and there i found out that the Mental Health System in my country is all about making money. And i was back at it again thinking about the end. Yearning for it. But then i realised that at the end of the end i wanted to die because of the world around me and my standpoint towards it. And thats when i realised that the world around me is not gonna change. The people around me wont change. The only thing i could actually change and have any kind of Agency over in my life was my own inner world. My Thoughts, my Emotions, the way i react to the world and the people in it. So i made a decision for myself. Im gonna retreat mentally and emotionally from the world and from my point of view only give 10% of myself to the world. To give myself the necessary internal space to able to work on myself and hopefull find my own reason to stay alive and keep on going. Not really changing anything in my day to day activities. Just detached from the world and its currents that used drown me everyday. Funny thing is no one really noticed. I still acted the same way towards others but my inner world had changed drastically. After a couple of months i had done so much internal work that almost every major "mental & emotional scar" i received up till this point in my life simple by being there for myself. Should someone be interested in how i did it. I basically sat myself infront of a mirror and started talking to myself about the things that hurt me most in my live and just let it all come to surface and let it sweep over me.Which i had never alowed in my life up until this point. But seeing the pain i had held onto all my life right in front of my own eyes. It broke me. I always felt all that pain inside of me without actually seeing it at face value. But that was necessary for me to be able to actually feel compassion for my self for the first time in my 27 Years on this planet. And from there on out i just raced through those really heavy painful emotions and memories that i never thought could be healt. But now i sit here only one year after finally going my own way in life and being there for myself like i used to only do it for other people. Let me tell you all this pain and suffering was worth it. Because without it wouldnt be the person i am today. And after years of hating myself and wishing for my own death to eliviate the pain for myself and the perceived burden i put on other people simply by existing. Which is actually funny because i did nothing else than sacrifice my own Mental and Emotional Well being to help others with there own sorrow without wanting anything in return because i thought that that was my only reason for me being alive. To be a useful tool that gets discarded the moment it is no longer useful. But thankfully I can finally say i found peace with myself. So now i am at a place of mind where there is no more need for my live to need a meaning. There is nothing left for me to do on this journey. No grant goals to achieve or certain postions i want the hold. No just being alive and enjoying the journey towards my natural death is more then enough "reason" for me to be alive. Just enjoying the little everyday things that occure in a human life span. No longer chained by my indoctrination imprinted by the world. Finally free. Walking my own way till the end and embracing the end with peace in my heart. Hope this little rant can help a poor sould out there. Stay safe everyone and cut yourself some slack. We are all goin to find our own way. Everyone in his own time and place.
I don’t know who you are but I’m proud of you. I’ve never had any suicidal thoughts but I constantly wonder when my last day will be and how. Growing up I never got to express myself and whenever I did I never felt like I was heard. So I’ve always been closed off to the world because to me it felt like I wasn’t even there. Luckily I found someone who helps me feel heard and cares for me. I don’t depend on anyone for happiness as I can make myself happy. I for a time got really sad because my life just seemed to be full of work and I didn’t have time for anything else and it was hard to plan around my time with loved ones. Now I have all the time in the world and ironically my loved ones don’t. It’s funny isn’t it? You think when you finally reach a place you’ve been yearning for the grass would be greener. But I’ve come to realize that the grass is only greener where you water it. Cheers to you for still living in this world. If there’s an end anyways might as well stick it out and see as much as you can. No need to rush what’s already coming for us all.
Your story made me realize what's even more to come in this seemingly stagnant world in the perspective of others, I saw something from you that would help me remember a bit of my reasons for me being what I am made of today. It's such a relief after all those enduring years you have to go through and finally knowing peace on your own, that is worthy to be proud of, indeed.
Thank you for sharing this. I have three missions in life and business: 1 for family and 2 for helping improve my community. I realize what I am working towards. Success will come to me more and more when I stay committed to my missions in life and business.
This is such a powerful video. Thank you Einzelgänger. I have a feeling that doing this is where you yourself find a great source of meaning and purpose. Praises to you.
Sometimes i still struggle to find meaning. But after I read a text on the topic, hypothetically inspired by Marcus Aurelius, I now know. I wanna live life according to my own beliefs and values. Sure there may be some specific things I wanna do, but I found the above to be more fulfilling. Why struggle day after day to find meaning based on external circumstances? Either to build something, achieve something, support something etc. No. I rather define some basic values like "to be honest / grateful / dedicated and committed / helpful / not taking back my word / doing the best I can despite what I have" and apply the above, to each and every situation I come across my life. So in the end, I will have a meaning regardless where and what I end up doing.
Hmm. So basically you're saying that you're embracing your good side, but you haven't realised/actualised your bad side. You are not aware of what the highest possible good looks like and you should know that that to live is to sin and each of your actions will still be tainted by a hint of your own darkness and to have absolutely no reason to be good unless you believe in god then you're just being good bc you don't wanna go to hell. Stop self shackling yourself with the curse of embracing your good side if you haven't unlocked its full potential yet. Be normal, do what appeals to you, chase your anxieties be naive, see where that takes you..
@@007lutherking @Clarence @Clarence Am i subduing my bad side, while i am trying to live an ideally life filled with only good things? If I understood that correctly, then, it seems I once more need to re meditate my "subconscious", my actions. Cause indeed, each action may be "tainted" like you said by darkness. Like where there is dark there will be light as well. If I deny to embrace my other side as well, then how can I be whole; ⚖️ Sometimes people are not seeing a situation, an act, as clearly as it may be. Other perspectives are always welcome. Thanks for your opinion.
@@lover5012 the only way one can live without darkness is to stop existing. If you choose to live then you get to decide how much darkness you're willing to embrace and if you're gonna be embracing darkness anyways.. Why not go all the way?
This video helped me a lot. Recently I've been in a really hopeless place, and I've been struggling to find things to live for. Because... the things I would live for don't seem realistic to rely on. But, the more I watched this video, I decided "oh, what the hell, what's the harm in just thinking about the things I want to live for". I decided to conduct a thought experiment where I thought "ok lets say a train was going to run into me in about 5 seconds... what would I consider doing EVEN IF it made the train stop" A few answers I came up with: hug my boyfriend, sketch something, eat a bowl of thai soup, sing a song, sit on my own couch with a blanket and a hot drink, and hug an animal. From here, I decided, well then these must be my basic needs in life. These must be things I need in order to be happy and successful. If I look at my life now, the only things I'm able to do are sketch and sing a song. So, I've decided I need to find a way to acquire the other things too. And I also figured there is no way to acquire them doing things I don't like, because that's not sustainable and with my mental state, its not something I want to push myself into either. So I figured I have to think of something relating to sketching, and that's a good starting point for me. Honestly, before this video, I basically gave up. I thought my life wasn't in my control and there isn't anything I can do to fix it... but if there were people in concentration camps who survived through sheer will, then I can find a way to live and more than that, be happy, too. Thank you for this video, I will definitely revisit it again.
The distinction between modern day systematic society and the terrible events of the old world is a good observation. It defeats the ability to directly see the essence of the sorrow, therefor it is more lickely to drag on for ever. A small purpose is of great value.
To be honest i only was happy when i was free. No job, no repetitive days, all that time for myself, struggling to eat. But man..there was no clock in the morning, no stress, i had little but i was happy. Fried eggs tasted better, even free food from others was a blessing. But my ego took over, i found a job and i consider myself a slave. Sure now i can eat what i want, i can buy clothes, and pay some bills. But deep inside, im sad. I wanted a relation, but i cant connect, they are all the same, they want what they are programed to want. And now i have a choise, to sacrifice my freedom and try to play this society game, or to Live as my soul dictates me? Cuz in my wet dreams, im alone and hungry on a bench, almost dead but with a big smile on my face, knowing i lived the way i wanted.
that man was privileged enough to be able to become a doctor, which allowed him to find meaning inside the concentration camp. what about those who came from already broken lives, born into poverty or disease, now faced with the prospects of that hellhole? harder for them to find meaning. surviving was ultimately down to fate, even one's own personality is profoundly shaped by the experiences they had growing up which is a matter of fate.
I am a 16 year old student and I have suicidal thoughts and plans now and then. Sometimes it is really hard to not commit, but my parents protect me. Videos like this kinda help me, I am getting help soon because of my mental issues. Wish you all the best out there, you are probably all having a hard time if you are here❤
It's ironic how I never thought I would care for someone, and here I am head over heels with the sweetest being, hopelessly in love. Potentially seeing him is what gives me hope and meaning to live every day.
at one time i've thought that if someone would just die it would end their suffering and pain. but then i thought, life is meaningless, we put meaning to it.
If life had a meanibg set out by some higher being, then I would demand for that higher power to tell me straight. I'm not playing life's games or jumping through hoops to attain some pathetic awareness. I want to know right now
This video blew me away. I never really looked at life and one’s meaning that way before. Also the analogy on the concentration camp prisoners mindset on potential meaningless can be present with similar characteristics in people of more western society today was outstanding. The ideas that lead to our consumerism blocking out our questionable purposelessness. I believe now and everyday I am in a search for meaning but within that sense find meaning to waking up with a smile everyday, even when not smiling I still feel an eagerness to get to tasks I set for myself. This video really spoke to me and it makes me think that I may already have a purpose I can’t describe in words because the past 2 years I have seen tremendous growth and improvement within myself physically and mentally and only the pursuit for that until this day. It was never in a sense for others but ultimately because I want to. On days when the motivation would be tough I noticed I admired doing activities like reading, learning to write more, study of personal wellness and finance and fitness. All topics people similarly strive for I can imagine but this video has opened my mind that I know within all these things and more, I’ve never quit and it was more than the reason of “because I can’t be mediocre” but rather “ I don’t want to stop doing these things” I believe now I enjoy more than I imagined
Excellent summary of the book that changed my life. I was obsessed with the question I asked the Life - why do I live, what's the meaning. Frankl said that it's not you who has to ask that question. Life is asking YOU why you are living and your task is to answer
I picked up a few hobbies and I'm excited to wake up in the morning, I have no time to dwell on anything existential (needlessly and painfully). Activities where doing it, in and of itself, is enjoyable, are the best. I love being on my longboard. I can skate with friends, or alone, and I can improve within my chosen discipline endlessly. If I so desire I can get competitive, or I can keep my progress to myself. Find something you enjoy.
@@konan8353 Thanks Konan, there were a few pursuits I enjoyed, unfortunately I let them slip due to a series of painful life events that unfolded over the course of the last year. Some I am still trying to come to terms with. However, I have moved forward over where I was a few months ago. Not a lot, just a bit, but I'll take it. Wishing you well 🙏🙏
How pleasant this all sounds, and yet how distant! I understand there's value in it, but at that torrid low point of deep loss and suffering, everything within revolts against letting in the light. The body sags against dragging its own weight, the stomach tied in a thousand knots and a wrenching tightness sitting dominantly above. It takes enormous effort to even move. One just needs to wait it out. Yes, please take help. But the suffering usually has its own incubation period. Staring into the abyss or just perhaps the blank slate of a ceiling, one just needs to wait it out. But you will never be the same after this experience. I would like to think that such extreme agony then is both a curse and blessing of a guest .... one who doesn't believe in feeding you the pink candy of optimism..but also one who never leaves without rewarding you richly for putting up with him. Yes, I would like to think so. But what do I know? For he has still not left my side.
So terrible. Many of us are in the same mind state. Probably my mind is just opening now after watching this. Either we live for ourselves or for others. Life is just to be happy. Meanwhile living a life with purpose keeping us to drive throught sufferings trying to do only good for ourselves and others.This is what we exsctly have to do. God bless whoever reads this and give you peace in mind and heart. ❤
Great video and great timing for it. I just finished Frankl’s “Man’s search for Meaning” last week and prior to that I read your “Unoffendable”. Good stuff. Keep up the great work.
While seeking to deepen my consciousness over the last year and discovering TH-cam as a useful portal, your channel and its contents have provided an abundance of insight for which I am grateful. No doubt massive effort and consideration go into creating your beautiful videos, however the works flow with apparent effortlessness, grace and humility. All efforts to create and share your existential insights are greatly appreciated, and the ripples produced are spreading far and wide. Thank you.
It's important to realize that we humans have been dependent on meaning for most of human history. It's a survival mechanism that exists in the brain because a life with no meaning isn't inherently worth living for. As a result, for some people, its religion, God, family, community or whatever else you can think of. But it's when we create meaning in our lives that we then find something to live for and are able to go through whatever life throws at us. It is meaning that gives us a reason to keep on going, especially when times are hard.
The issue with the train of thought of anything and everything can be labelled as "what is the point". It is very challenging to give meaning to a simingly meaningless existence. But one thing is for certain, emotions flows to a person's state every living consciousness second. I chose to observe it, instead of labelling or making it a problem to be solved. Trying to understand my relation of the self to the world around me. There is no concrete solution or answer to this dilemma but there is truth to looking at the compassion and love the world has, the self in relation to the pain and suffering the world brings, and giving a purpose on the present moment not the future nor the past. There is another perspective to this discussion the philisophy of death or non existence, it give value to the short breath, the limited time we have here in the living world. I for one am stuck as well even now, there might be the time where i physically give up but i choose not to give up on my own conscious self. It is the only constant being i can trully trust with genuine certainty, this is not my physical earthly self but the voice in my head, the me that defines me.
Absolutely profound and this is absolutely for me at this moment in my life. I have become consumed by depression and negativity … I can’t lift myself out of it, it would be foolish to try that … don’t ever tell someone to cheer up when they are depressed … like putting your head in a lions mouth. So if I stop trying to find happiness by following a course of action, instead, maybe start by looking around me and become aware of others needs … avoid the guilt trap… do something because YOU choose to…. Don’t fall into the excuse trap of avoiding … I guess it’s “choosing” and not always knowing how you can achieve but choose to accept the challenge…?
He talks my heart. My heart is physically aching. All i want is to quit living because it’s not my thing. I’m not like other people I don’t have a dream or desire for living. When i try to open up to my parents they tell me I should pray it out or it’s evil eye or some shit..
i have been suffering from this feeling since my childhood days, from standard 1 or 2....yes, kids too can have this feeling..and my life has been a very testing journey so far just due to this inner feeling of world being meaningless....i am 35 today, and spend whole of my life torn between social life and this feeling of meaningless....dont know how long i can carry on...
woooa are we twins? I'm 35 and mine started way too early in my teenage days....I just don't wanna give up but seems like I'm being sucked into the void of emptiness slowly each passing day.
Hey, I wished to thank and compliment you on the effort you put into the making of these videos. They are such a treasure trove of upliftment, knowledge, serenity and encouragement. Your channeling of energies are immensely appreciated, and I wish you all the very best, sending you love, joy, and peace :)
I already keep a drug to end myself about a week, because I feel empty inside. I binge everything that I know it will ruin mysel, but I feel like I can't stop. Today I accidentally slit my fingers while cooking, I feel something from it. I feel pleasure by hurt myself. wanna do it again so damn bad right now, because the pain feels bigger than my wounded heart. I feel so depressed after I'm bed ridden, now my physical health is improving but my mental state is messed up. no one notice and I'm to scared to admit my mental problems, because everyone suffering after my dad passed away and my illness that take a lot of money. At first I want to search, why I feel relief while slit myself. But my rational mind search this instead. I pray for myself and all the people who also suffering to find their own mean of life and happiness. that we get a better and bright future full of meaningful happiness.
I agree. That's why I'm throwing whatever I can into crypto. Hopefully it succeeds and I could quit my wage slavery job. I rather be anxious and bored in my million dollar home than depressed that this is my life till retirement when you do have money but your body hurts and aches.
Is the emptiness we feel inside because of the lack the of true community? Community gives trust, security, happiness, peace and meaning. When I was a kid and had friends at school, life felt simple, I didn't have to be cautious all the time like my social status was at stake or my reputation because I had people I could count on who didn't want to take me down or have incentive to do so.
Watching both '300' movies led me here. I have always lived life seeking for a purpose worth dying for, but am only met with shallowness, fear and egocentricity of man who have lost the will to live, but relinquished all of the energy of their life into preserving whatever miserable endeavour they are enslaved to.
@@jenster29 I don’t believe that. That may be naive of me, and that’s okay. Whether someone feels like they have a purpose or not, or doesn’t know their purpose… I still choose to believe they have a purpose within them that will add to their own happiness. I will help people smile and believe in themselves with that as much as I can 😄
Life goals are so simple, yet so powerful. If you have 2 hours for a task and someone distracts you, you lose a lot of time relatively speaking. The same time loss is insignificant compared to a bigger goal
I was inspired to to do my very best in whatever I put my hand to do. To be perfect at something is impossible, but it is a goal to aim for in my life. My father and an assistant headmaster at a private school Mr. Malcolm always said to try your best even at the most menial jobs. The reason why is because we are representing God and we should try our best to make a good impression upon those we work for and live with. This gave me an immense satisfaction in my life because I felt it brought me closer to God and made the world a better place to live in.
My well qualified daughter took her own life two month ago, one week before she would start work as a lawyer after obtaining three degrees from a prestigious university in London, she left us notes about life being meaningless, how I wish she came in contact with the works of Dr Viktor Frankl and find her meaning/purpose, We love her deeply and she was only 23. Now, I am surviving by dwelling deep into Dr Frankl's works to rebuild my life. Emptiness is the worse disease today no doubt.
Keep being strong, brother! I hope you find something to stabilize your life!
I wonder if you know you're a very strong parent. I know some (maybe most) who can no longer function even on a basic level after the passing of a child. Maybe you understand the emptiness she was feeling. I need to realize that I don't have to do something noble in order to give life meaning. I'm doing work that I thought would make me feel better about myself because it's a good deed. But, I'm realizing I'm doing more self-harm by not exploring what interests me beyond just finding purpose. I exist. I don't have to prove I'm worth my existence. It's tough, though. I just don't see it most days.
@@krisi12bg55 That’s how I found Dr Viktor Frankl.
@@jungersrules You are absolutely right! After her passing my world collapsed on me and everyday I experienced emptiness besides grief, and I could imagined her struggle and suffering of emptiness. There is no need to do stuff to prove/justify our existence, but finding meaning perhaps is what our own life require of us, not other people.
23 is so young 😔 😟
"Imagine waking up every day to engage un activities you dont like in order to survive" my life described in a simple sentence.
Maybe you would be happier living during the thousand years of feudalism. The standard of living was no higher at the end than at the beginning.
Do something different then
sorry
@@mord0 you're a genius lol
@@infoharvester 😂 I know it’s a bit cheeky but actually making yourself get out there and DO something rather than overthink everything really helps - it’s called behavioral activation
“Death smiles at us all; all we can do is smile back.” - Marcus Aurelius
As much into great quotes as I am, I'm shocked that I haven't encountered this one. Absolutely brilliant and great timing by you.
Spoken in the movie Gladiator too
@@andyt.80 Ahh, good to know (didn't see the film).
Death is only equal thing between humans
Nope. Marcus didn’t say it. Just a movie dialogue.
"We do not ask life what the meaning of life is. Life asks us, what is the meaning of your life. And life demands our answer."
Viktor E. Frankl
Csnt understand , the message behind sounds like nonsense
@@krale9970 there is no underlying meaning to our lives, we weren't born with some nebulous purpose. living your life and finding your own importance that brings you fulfillment is how you answer the question of "what is the meaning of your life?"
@@krale9970 There’s another quote, similar to this one that puts it like this: “The meaning of life, is to give life meaning.” Meaning, it our own (each and everyone’s) responsibility to find and make your life meaningful. A good start is often by helping others, loving other people than (only) yourself. ❤
My meaning of life is self improvement,that's why I wake up full of motivation every single day,because I know no matter what happens I can always be better than the version of myself from yesterday and seeing years passing by I can watch and realise my own progress and how big of an improvement I get.
This meaning does not fall under any of the three categories of life meaning that Frankel suggested.
May I ask you how long do you have this particular meaning in your life?
Idk why but that sounds so boring to me.
better wrt what?? money, new task at job? new version of mobile? what??
@@brucesekliar5824they go to the gym. It’s always the gym
I agree with this, it’s not the sole motivation but I find it incredibly powerful. By reading stoic philosophy you can begin to live the best life you can, exercise, diet, these are all the pillars of a strong mind and soul.
*"When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves."
*- Viktor Frankl
Beautifully put
Wack
He so strong!! 💯💯
We xan change we rise up against our broken system and rebuild it brick by brick
@@TouchOfMaddness bimbo
"He who has a 'why' to live can bear almost any 'how'." - F. Nietzsche
- Wroanee Faruque
Thank you, I was writing down this quote in my journal but I’d never seen Nietzsche written & so I had no idea how to spell it 🙏🏻😇
@@mEatToLive 😉
Nietzsche stole that quote from a TikTok Influencer!
amazing quote
Im a South African student teacher, just read a psychology book speaking of Frankl, then the same day I finished it this video came out. After losing my mom to cancer, I found meaning in suffering through the stoicism that this channel provided as well as psychologist theories of Frankl and Maslow. If it means anything to the creator of this channel, you have helped me indirectly to build a strong mind. Dankie enkel ganger vir jou wysheid en jou raad.
I’m sorry about you mom, mine also passed away to cancer. I try to carry the pain it sprung as care and kindness for other people
@@Buzzoit I am sorry to hear, healing takes time, some sooner than others, there is no rule to life. I coped with the fact that the pain of the cancer was gone. The suffering was not drawn out.
I'm sorry to hear all this. I'm 29 and survived stage 4T cancer when i was 26. I lost EVERYTHING. Cars, my place, my fiance, muscles and hair. What honestly got me through it was finding GOD. Otherwise I would have been laying in that bed facing an abyss of emptiness. Shortly after I had family/friends pass from cancer. I was at peace and helped others feel the same knowing they were in a better place than we are.
@@salvadorramirez4114 I find it funny that whenever someone is faced with a situation that pushes them close to the edge, whether it be death, going to prison or losing loved ones, that out of nowhere people go to find their strength, not within themselves, but from something like religion. Like why? Are you lacking so much inside that that you had to cling to the one familiar cli che that is the Bible? That it somehow holds the right answers? The secrets to morality? Strength? (funny enough but religion tends to Lead people to dehumanize others)
Sorry to say but that ancient crap is pure hypocrisy. Instead you should've studied everything els, hell philosophy, something that gives you scope, inner wisdom, to make you realize that you had the strength to pick yourself up, that through your own free will as a person, and individual can chose to be who and what you are and how you go about life and interacting with others.
@@53ns3i 🙄you'll see
"Most people who experience midlife crises have spent their entire lives raising a family, or working in a career. They haven't had the time, or capacity, to ask the important questions in life. Eventually, something triggers the question, Is this all there is?"
I'm asking that question at 19. I think I'm coming up on the answer.
@@lancewhoha3659 I'm asking this question at 24.
@@flyingknee23 I hope you find it too man
Life is purposeless unless you want to raise kids with the right partner....or help the poor and orphans in some ways.... helping the weakest in society; the poor, the terminaly ill, the old, prisoners, the handicapped....etc. If you're not doing any of these nor raising kids in a loving relationship, then life is purposeless!!!
When mortality rates were much higher and life spanns shorter women would be married off to bare children almost as soon as puberty the nature vs nurture argument is though. I sound like an a$&hole to say it but we shouldn't all survive we are saving and preserveing life's that will only suffer and wither
I believe that my life’s purpose is my work as a early childhood educator . I know that work doesn’t always equal meaningfulness, but seeing those kids learn and grow brings me a lot of fulfillment. I feel lucky to have found that so early in my life
“Work a meaningless job to be able to buy stuff to feel less meaningless “ I am no martyr but even i know myself and other people
I am at the end of my education career in the classroom. My body can no longer endure the work & my current job has been cut from my school’s budget (as I knew it would when I reached retirement).
Making art with kids has given me meaning enough to get through the darkest periods of my life. I do not know how I will continue on without this daily affirmation of purpose.
There is a dark side to the philosophy of meaning. What is to be done when you have been made redundant? Cut from the budget? Or, considered obsolete?
Being unable to continue really makes me feel like I should be put down like an old workhorse.
I had purpose which I no longer serve.
@@ruthbennett7563maybe if you’re retired and can afford to give your time you could volunteer an after school art club ? A couple hours one day a week? There could even be a small joining fee just to cover supplies 🤷🏻♀️ keep it laid back and enjoyable
@@ruthbennett7563That would be to keep going my friend. Good luck! 🙂
What is not meaningful to someone can be someone’s purpose. Everyone finds meaning in different things.
Viktor’s book helped me a lot when I was in a dark place. I recommend it for anyone in a similar place.
Ok...thanks! 7years in the Thai jail did not help me to be happy.
I started reading Man's Search for Meaning 3 years ago but only read half of it, thinking I should start reading again
Yes it is a must read I loved it
Same... his name came up a few times in my psych classes, but years later I was handed his book &... yeah. Good timing on that one.
I’ve had it on my physical TBR shelf for a couple of years. I think these comments will get me to read it. So many books! ❤️🤟🏻
Its so easy to forget to appreciate having the bare minimum in life. I have a roof, food, a job, and people who love me.
I am satisfied 😌
That's all it's about Fam!
I'm lonely and sometimes kinda sad because I don't have anyone I'm close to. I'm gonna pursue human connection and relationships, that's my meaning for now.
@@iliveinsideyourhouse3943 godspeed to you my friend. You don't need a lot of friends just one.
@@ghostno-jitsu7463
That's right, I just wanted one friend, but no luck so far, oh well, the pursuit of something meaningful gotta be hard.
@@iliveinsideyourhouse3943 When I was a teen i had a dozen close friends. When I hit 20 I had 5 or 6. Now I only have two. Good friends that stick and you can trust are very rare indeed and worth the search.
_Man's Search for Meaning_ is still one of the most happy depressing books I've ever read
To turn disaster and horror into meaning is a super power all on it's own, and whether it's emotional resilience or mental gymnastics, it's a valuable strategy for going through adversity
*"If you want to be a light for the world, you must be willing to burn." -Viktor Frankl*
People who find pain in times of peace are pitiable, but by that token, people who find peace in times of struggle are admirable
It really does come down to how one interprets the situation, rather than the situation
Actually it comes down to the lucky and those who are misfortune
However in my experience one makes their own a luck
Wow, I read a lot etc and never stumbled upon this quote. It’s amazing. Thank you for sharing this quote and your insight.
@@haveagreatlife3973
Just a question, who is the “we” being referred to in that quote?
"People who find pain in times of peace are pitiable, but by that token, people who find peace in times of struggle are admirable". I think I understand what you mean, but stating this is passing some HEAVY judgement on a person going through pain. If we compare most of our lives with Viktor Frankl's or other survivors of extreme situations, naturally our "pain" will be almost nothing, almost laughable. But then you risk ignoring completely the struggles of daily life and alienating ourselves to pains and struggles most of our family and friends go through.
Thank-you @zenthegeneral, your contribution is really appreciated
I always struggled with this since an early age. This is why maintaining relationships with friends, disappointing relatives and family was really frequent in my life. I observe. I exist. I survive. I fight.
I never lived. Never really enjoyed something. Each day now is a struggle for hope to bear on.
Already attempted to take my life twice. Reverted the effects of the poison twice but the second time it almost killed me.
Dark thoughts won't leave me be.
I attempted to reach out for help but nobody understands or helped me.
I'm all alone with my mind and I really won't be able to fight the urge to just vanish away.
I choose to turn my pain into hate against those who cause me such sorrow. Finding meaning in life doesn't always involve doing something good
Innerstand ❤ you're not alone
Innerstand ❤ your not alone
Sorry you feel so low. Please try to be kind to yourself. See the child in you that has been hurt and abandoned by others and show compassion to yourself because that part is still wounded inside you. You deserve love, acceptance and understanding.
Seek help my friend. A psychologist is great when you cannot understand what youre going through
I live in Syria and the living conditions in 2022 are so extreme, we are somehow off the grid, this video eases the daily struggle.
Love out to Syria❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
🙏 Stay strong brother. Hoping and praying for peace
💌💌💌
I’m so sorry. There’s nothing I can say that would help but I pray things get better.
After failure in work and love, I have come to terms that, because I'm the only child, to take care of my parents when they are old has brought meaning to my life.
you’re honorable and I hope you receive an abundance of happiness
It will become your cage. When you can’t go out
@@Pedanticskepticism Maybe she or he can reframe it as a cage with doors and windows that let in the light of self respect, honor and accomplishment.
That's beautiful but I do wish you a real love as well
That's beautiful but I do wish you a real love as well
Thank you for this powerful video. Many years ago when I was having the pity party of the century, a friend of mine suggested that I read “Man’s Search For Meaning.” Reading that book changed my attitude forever. Attitude is everything.
I just ordered 😊
Really took this one on board. Frankl was an outstandingly strong human. His outlook on life through horrendous experiences is the finest example of the human spirit & ‘grit’.
I’m so sorry for such a heartbreaking loss. Please live in her memory- to help other young people like this. Blessing & Peace to you.
I’m 31, unhealthy, broke, depressed, still live with my mom, can’t find a job and feel like I have no purpose in life. Idk where my life is going and have no motivation. I’m more than scared for my future.
We are the same my friend. I’m 37, also broke, can’t work bc of multiple sclerosis, depressed and live home with my mom & sister. Just know that some guy has it just as bad if not worse than you. Just wanted to make you feel not so alone. Hope things get better for you man!
@@Matteo342 hey my friend, I truly mean this. I hope the universe has a plan for us for everything to get better. Much love homie! Please stay safe and let’s try harder this year and beyond
I hope universe could help you
Could be worse, at least you don't have to deal with the veterans affairs for health care,,,,, it's crazy scary.
@@James-qz5ny could be worse is not a reason to not feel the pain you have I hope you get the proper care you deserve my mother and father dealt with the same god bless
When told to pursue my dreams, I did! I immediately went back to sleep.
Hahaha
🤩🤩🤩
Haha.
The one thing that keeps us humans going is the fear of death, so ask yourself what is death. The fear of God is the beginning of all wisdom. Don’t fear the one who is able to kill the body, but fear the one who is able to kill body and spirit
@@kellerkind4510 It all depends on what we think and believe some ppl didn't fear death they ain't coming back to the living world 😅
Great vids my dude
Thanks!
I got a lot from this one
👀
Yowww I lovee your horror narrations💯💯💯💯🌟
Hey Let’s Read, love your channel and all that you do. Stay happy and healthy
I’ve lost the ability to walk and know this video to be very accurate in my life. Thank you so much for this 💓
Even if you lost the ability to walk, you can still move forward as a person. Though you became different, there are always people who suffers the same as you. Even if you find yourself to be the only person to suffer the way no one had, you can set example for others. Everyone has different path in life. Some has similar path or get your path intertwined with others. Perhaps you have a path which is special and unique and rare. Till the end of the journey, you must grateful to your life and the achievements you had in life.
Keep going mate❤
If I could donate my legs to you I would
Let's try to make it through this thing we call life. 👍
🙏
I can't describe how well and mindfully your videos (and particularly this one) are put together. You are wonderful! Thank you!
Thank you!
This piece of litrature is truly immortal, and the way it was presented here is commendable and admirable. Thank you for highlighting it to the world in such a beautiful way.
“He who has a why to live can bear almost any how”. This is the 🔑
He who has a why to live can bear almost any how - this quote really changed my life.
Life has no meaning. Each of us has meaning and we bring it to life. It is a waste to be asking the question when you are the answer.
That is the implication of denying God and his revelation.
Total darkness and meaninglessness.
@@mohamedaminebenlehmar9724 Quite the contrary in my opinion. I find it to be total lightness, there is nothing anchoring you down with true nihilism, it's just you and infinity.
@@mohamedaminebenlehmar9724 and you call yourself a free thinker. Can you enlighten us then and tell what's the meaning of life, good for everone?
Random
@@mohamedaminebenlehmar9724 ... yep, u sure said it correctly ... by throwing God away, that unfortunate person hits the trashcan ... (-_'|
This is the most relevant & soothing podcast I’ve probably ever read. Victor Frankl was obviously a deeply intelligent & unusually insightful &?rare individual. His words are massive true especially for those growing old. Will re read as it’s beautiful & so meaningful. Thank you.
You've saved me today. A sincere thanks to you for bringing this topic into light. ❤
After every time I watch your short videos, I have to spend hours, sometimes days to contemplate on the thoughts and ideas you introduced me to.
Dear Einzelgänger, anytime I watch or listen to a video of yours I feel like getting a total new perspective on things, so my mind strongly calms down (irrespective of the topic). Many thanks for your great work!
Thank you, that’s good to hear.
@@Einzelgänger Yes from me too: all your videos I've watched have been very profound and well-made. Thank you! I think you are helping a lot of people. Greetings from Germany.
A Dutch philosopher once wrote an essay with the title: be happy that life has no meaning.
That was such an eye opener for me. And indeed, I’m very happy with that fact for decades now.
Baruch Spinoza?
May I know where u found the essay? So I can read it too
The philosopher is Jaap van Heerden. The text is in Dutch. I couldn’t find it on internet anymore. It used to be there because I have a download.
@@324ywo the first time I read it was in a Dutch paper.
That title makes me think of the fact that at least there is no one set meaning for everyone, and any can be given and be shapen by the person. I'd be curious to explore more about that.
The video made me realize that, even in the midst of hardship, we can still find meaning and choice in how we face challenges.
The singularly most important 15 minutes I have encountered for the longest time. Thank you.
This is my MOST favourite Video of yours! I loved reading Viktor Frankls "Man´s search for Meaning". Keep up the crazy good work. Thanks for this amazing Video 🖤
Thanks Kital, that great to hear :)
same
He was the best philosopher ever, after everything he went through.. a magnificent person.
I wrote an essay about him..😊
This is really similar to not doing something and it will happen. You're so focused on something bigger that the smaller thing happens automatically. The funny part is, by that time, you no longer care about having the smaller thing. Life is so funny sometimes. Great video man.
I watch you everyday. You have helped me look at life differently. Before was in a dark place and was very unsure with alot of things. You have helped me think differently. Thank you. Awesome videos. Sending love from Canada.
This is so true. My life felt pretty empty and meaningless when I had no real purpose engraved in my head. But now, after focusing on my career and work, I finally know what I want to do for the world and for myself before I leave this world, and waking up everyday, knowing that I am a step closer to achieving that through my own efforts, is the most relieving thing ever. Thank you for the video. Love this channel so much!💕
That is just what I needed to watch. I had a big existentional problem, kinda get stucked for a while. Now I feel much better. Like you have unlocked some lock in my soul. Thank you for the big work. I'm glad that you here. Keep going! Wish you the best!
"Devoid of meaning and faith that things could turn out more favourable, our bodies and minds begin to wither as we have lost our will to live." You can see it after every crisis.
Mental suffering in it's many forms both intrinsic (Post-Trauma, Depression, etc.) and extrinsic (Acute Trauma, Stress, being in a bloody concentration camp) is one of the strongest indicators for cardiovascular, musculoskeletal oncological and autoimmune disease.
Being dead inside can be taken a lot more literally than just having a bleak state of mind. Every single person that made it out of these horrible camps and managed to hold out at least another decade or two is a goddamn miracle of willpower.
I'm sure a big part of that willpower came from hoping they could put a bullet in the guards heads
Dear Einzelgänger, I have been watching your videos off and on for some years now.. (this is my first comment) You have created a very unique place here on TH-cam, sharing your profound and wise thinking, through the thoughts of others. Creating something new of old wisdom, how beautiful. 😍 I thank you dearly , especially for this video, which will be one of my favourites, to listen to again and again. And to send to my friends. Thank you ever so much, keep up the good work! 🙏
Wise words that I’m sure could be of great use to the suffering children of Gaza, Yemen, and North Korea.. I know I should be grateful not to have been born in those places, but the gratitude seems to do little to help me through each miserable day.
I am an introvert and I suffer from extreme social anxiety. I am at uni and have to stay for 2 years here. Every small bit of interaction gives me panic attack. I can't afford therapy and I have presentations to give, people expect me to attend gatherings in college communities and groups and I feel helpless. I have contemplated dropping out, worse committing suicide. I can't take it anymore. Doesn't feel any less than living in a prison because my mind makes my body numb and paralysed with fear. But this degree matters a lot to me, and I will try my best to endure. Because this degree is worth all this pain. Life has to be worth all this pain. When life throws me a bunch of lemons, I can atleast make myself a lemonade. Thanks Einzelganger, you are my only small hope of life and I kid you not. If I graduate without killing myself I will owe it all to you.
His book Man's Search for Meaning is one of my favorite. It changed my perspective about life.
Beautiful video! Sharing a piece of bread with the people in need can indeed give meaning to your life.
Sometimes there is no purpose to life if people around you have taken it away from you. Children in particular who are horribly abused and ignored by society are such people.
i don't know what's worse anymore, not having meaning or having it and being in a position where its unobtainable but being told by everyone that you just need to "try harder",
What a terrific video bravo man!! I think this is the video that has brought me full circle on my philosophy in life and for that I'm very grateful. Thank you many!!
Thanks, Luis!
When we are no longer able to change the situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.
Love is the highest purpose, it's the highest form of purpose. How does love look to you? Something I'm learning about and Viktor Frankl is providing me a door, but the path is for me to pave. Guided by the meaning for the purpose of love, I'm sure I can stay alive even in the most hopeless situations.
"Finding something to live (and even die for) transforms a meaningless, hopeless existence into a life worth living, regardless of any circumstances" - Viktor Frankl
This is the most important and meaningful channel on the tubes! Thank you for doing what you do. Grief and bereavement, especially, are the burdens we all need help and guidance to traverse.
Dr V. Frankl's book is gem. I've red it at least twice. Great video! Thank you!
we all have something in common for clicking on this video, we are all figuring it out, together. Find your community and find meaning. Good luck on your journey ❤
I have watched numerous stuff on existential issues on TH-cam but i can say with certitude that this video is immensely important because of its pragmatic content,easy to understand philosophy without beating around the bush.
Highly obliged to this channel🙏🙏🙏
This is fcking bathling to me to watch this video on this day. It´s the anniversary of my suicide attempt last year, after thinking about suicide from Age 13 - 27 on an almost daily basis because of my upbringing. Live was meaningless and i just wanted to escape from this constant pain. I was ready to die for years on end. The only thing keeping me alive was the compassion i still held onto for the people around me. Because i didnt want to spread my pain to my loved ones. But last year i cracked. Im not gonna go into details but i aborted my plan at the right time and saved myself. Well i ended up in the hospital and there i found out that the Mental Health System in my country is all about making money. And i was back at it again thinking about the end. Yearning for it. But then i realised that at the end of the end i wanted to die because of the world around me and my standpoint towards it. And thats when i realised that the world around me is not gonna change. The people around me wont change. The only thing i could actually change and have any kind of Agency over in my life was my own inner world. My Thoughts, my Emotions, the way i react to the world and the people in it. So i made a decision for myself. Im gonna retreat mentally and emotionally from the world and from my point of view only give 10% of myself to the world. To give myself the necessary internal space to able to work on myself and hopefull find my own reason to stay alive and keep on going. Not really changing anything in my day to day activities. Just detached from the world and its currents that used drown me everyday. Funny thing is no one really noticed. I still acted the same way towards others but my inner world had changed drastically. After a couple of months i had done so much internal work that almost every major "mental & emotional scar" i received up till this point in my life simple by being there for myself. Should someone be interested in how i did it. I basically sat myself infront of a mirror and started talking to myself about the things that hurt me most in my live and just let it all come to surface and let it sweep over me.Which i had never alowed in my life up until this point. But seeing the pain i had held onto all my life right in front of my own eyes. It broke me. I always felt all that pain inside of me without actually seeing it at face value. But that was necessary for me to be able to actually feel compassion for my self for the first time in my 27 Years on this planet. And from there on out i just raced through those really heavy painful emotions and memories that i never thought could be healt. But now i sit here only one year after finally going my own way in life and being there for myself like i used to only do it for other people. Let me tell you all this pain and suffering was worth it. Because without it wouldnt be the person i am today. And after years of hating myself and wishing for my own death to eliviate the pain for myself and the perceived burden i put on other people simply by existing. Which is actually funny because i did nothing else than sacrifice my own Mental and Emotional Well being to help others with there own sorrow without wanting anything in return because i thought that that was my only reason for me being alive. To be a useful tool that gets discarded the moment it is no longer useful. But thankfully I can finally say i found peace with myself. So now i am at a place of mind where there is no more need for my live to need a meaning. There is nothing left for me to do on this journey. No grant goals to achieve or certain postions i want the hold. No just being alive and enjoying the journey towards my natural death is more then enough "reason" for me to be alive. Just enjoying the little everyday things that occure in a human life span. No longer chained by my indoctrination imprinted by the world. Finally free. Walking my own way till the end and embracing the end with peace in my heart. Hope this little rant can help a poor sould out there. Stay safe everyone and cut yourself some slack. We are all goin to find our own way. Everyone in his own time and place.
I don’t know who you are but I’m proud of you. I’ve never had any suicidal thoughts but I constantly wonder when my last day will be and how. Growing up I never got to express myself and whenever I did I never felt like I was heard. So I’ve always been closed off to the world because to me it felt like I wasn’t even there. Luckily I found someone who helps me feel heard and cares for me. I don’t depend on anyone for happiness as I can make myself happy. I for a time got really sad because my life just seemed to be full of work and I didn’t have time for anything else and it was hard to plan around my time with loved ones. Now I have all the time in the world and ironically my loved ones don’t. It’s funny isn’t it? You think when you finally reach a place you’ve been yearning for the grass would be greener. But I’ve come to realize that the grass is only greener where you water it. Cheers to you for still living in this world. If there’s an end anyways might as well stick it out and see as much as you can. No need to rush what’s already coming for us all.
Your story made me realize what's even more to come in this seemingly stagnant world in the perspective of others, I saw something from you that would help me remember a bit of my reasons for me being what I am made of today. It's such a relief after all those enduring years you have to go through and finally knowing peace on your own, that is worthy to be proud of, indeed.
Thank you for sharing this. I have three missions in life and business: 1 for family and 2 for helping improve my community. I realize what I am working towards. Success will come to me more and more when I stay committed to my missions in life and business.
Watching this channel is reason enough to look forward to living.
This is definitely a video to watch over and over! Also I love all the great comments and they're great knowledge that people share. Thank you
This is such a powerful video. Thank you Einzelgänger. I have a feeling that doing this is where you yourself find a great source of meaning and purpose. Praises to you.
Sometimes i still struggle to find meaning.
But after I read a text on the topic, hypothetically inspired by Marcus Aurelius, I now know.
I wanna live life according to my own beliefs and values. Sure there may be some specific things I wanna do, but I found the above to be more fulfilling. Why struggle day after day to find meaning based on external circumstances? Either to build something, achieve something, support something etc. No. I rather define some basic values like "to be honest / grateful / dedicated and committed / helpful / not taking back my word / doing the best I can despite what I have" and apply the above, to each and every situation I come across my life. So in the end, I will have a meaning regardless where and what I end up doing.
Hmm. So basically you're saying that you're embracing your good side, but you haven't realised/actualised your bad side. You are not aware of what the highest possible good looks like and you should know that that to live is to sin and each of your actions will still be tainted by a hint of your own darkness and to have absolutely no reason to be good unless you believe in god then you're just being good bc you don't wanna go to hell.
Stop self shackling yourself with the curse of embracing your good side if you haven't unlocked its full potential yet. Be normal, do what appeals to you, chase your anxieties be naive, see where that takes you..
@@007lutherking @Clarence @Clarence Am i subduing my bad side, while i am trying to live an ideally life filled with only good things? If I understood that correctly, then, it seems I once more need to re meditate my "subconscious", my actions.
Cause indeed, each action may be "tainted" like you said by darkness. Like where there is dark there will be light as well. If I deny to embrace my other side as well, then how can I be whole; ⚖️ Sometimes people are not seeing a situation, an act, as clearly as it may be. Other perspectives are always welcome. Thanks for your opinion.
@@lover5012 the only way one can live without darkness is to stop existing. If you choose to live then you get to decide how much darkness you're willing to embrace and if you're gonna be embracing darkness anyways.. Why not go all the way?
Amen
Powerful words💯thanks for sharing
This video helped me a lot. Recently I've been in a really hopeless place, and I've been struggling to find things to live for. Because... the things I would live for don't seem realistic to rely on. But, the more I watched this video, I decided "oh, what the hell, what's the harm in just thinking about the things I want to live for". I decided to conduct a thought experiment where I thought "ok lets say a train was going to run into me in about 5 seconds... what would I consider doing EVEN IF it made the train stop" A few answers I came up with: hug my boyfriend, sketch something, eat a bowl of thai soup, sing a song, sit on my own couch with a blanket and a hot drink, and hug an animal. From here, I decided, well then these must be my basic needs in life. These must be things I need in order to be happy and successful. If I look at my life now, the only things I'm able to do are sketch and sing a song. So, I've decided I need to find a way to acquire the other things too. And I also figured there is no way to acquire them doing things I don't like, because that's not sustainable and with my mental state, its not something I want to push myself into either. So I figured I have to think of something relating to sketching, and that's a good starting point for me. Honestly, before this video, I basically gave up. I thought my life wasn't in my control and there isn't anything I can do to fix it... but if there were people in concentration camps who survived through sheer will, then I can find a way to live and more than that, be happy, too. Thank you for this video, I will definitely revisit it again.
The distinction between modern day systematic society and the terrible events of the old world is a good observation. It defeats the ability to directly see the essence of the sorrow, therefor it is more lickely to drag on for ever. A small purpose is of great value.
To be honest i only was happy when i was free. No job, no repetitive days, all that time for myself, struggling to eat. But man..there was no clock in the morning, no stress, i had little but i was happy. Fried eggs tasted better, even free food from others was a blessing. But my ego took over, i found a job and i consider myself a slave. Sure now i can eat what i want, i can buy clothes, and pay some bills. But deep inside, im sad. I wanted a relation, but i cant connect, they are all the same, they want what they are programed to want. And now i have a choise, to sacrifice my freedom and try to play this society game, or to Live as my soul dictates me? Cuz in my wet dreams, im alone and hungry on a bench, almost dead but with a big smile on my face, knowing i lived the way i wanted.
Man, we humans are strange creatures
My favorite TH-cam channel. Thank you so much!
that man was privileged enough to be able to become a doctor, which allowed him to find meaning inside the concentration camp. what about those who came from already broken lives, born into poverty or disease, now faced with the prospects of that hellhole? harder for them to find meaning. surviving was ultimately down to fate, even one's own personality is profoundly shaped by the experiences they had growing up which is a matter of fate.
I am a 16 year old student and I have suicidal thoughts and plans now and then. Sometimes it is really hard to not commit, but my parents protect me. Videos like this kinda help me, I am getting help soon because of my mental issues. Wish you all the best out there, you are probably all having a hard time if you are here❤
Think about the thoughts that turned you suicidal and turn them into the reason you will live your life!
It's ironic how I never thought I would care for someone, and here I am head over heels with the sweetest being, hopelessly in love. Potentially seeing him is what gives me hope and meaning to live every day.
at one time i've thought that if someone would just die it would end their suffering and pain. but then i thought, life is meaningless, we put meaning to it.
Perhaps. Or perhaps existence is full of meaning, which we don’t always perceive, and our task is to tune into it.
If life had a meanibg set out by some higher being, then I would demand for that higher power to tell me straight. I'm not playing life's games or jumping through hoops to attain some pathetic awareness. I want to know right now
This video blew me away. I never really looked at life and one’s meaning that way before. Also the analogy on the concentration camp prisoners mindset on potential meaningless can be present with similar characteristics in people of more western society today was outstanding. The ideas that lead to our consumerism blocking out our questionable purposelessness. I believe now and everyday I am in a search for meaning but within that sense find meaning to waking up with a smile everyday, even when not smiling I still feel an eagerness to get to tasks I set for myself. This video really spoke to me and it makes me think that I may already have a purpose I can’t describe in words because the past 2 years I have seen tremendous growth and improvement within myself physically and mentally and only the pursuit for that until this day. It was never in a sense for others but ultimately because I want to. On days when the motivation would be tough I noticed I admired doing activities like reading, learning to write more, study of personal wellness and finance and fitness. All topics people similarly strive for I can imagine but this video has opened my mind that I know within all these things and more, I’ve never quit and it was more than the reason of “because I can’t be mediocre” but rather “ I don’t want to stop doing these things” I believe now I enjoy more than I imagined
"We no longer have need of others. Any relationship can be replaced by a keystroke.
I had gotten bored of a world like that."
Don't try to be happy; find a reason to be happy, and then you'll be happy automatically. Love it!
Excellent summary of the book that changed my life. I was obsessed with the question I asked the Life - why do I live, what's the meaning. Frankl said that it's not you who has to ask that question. Life is asking YOU why you are living and your task is to answer
I needed this, I am getting more nihilistic by the day and I don't like it, time to push through, without pushing. Thank you 🙏🙏
I picked up a few hobbies and I'm excited to wake up in the morning, I have no time to dwell on anything existential (needlessly and painfully). Activities where doing it, in and of itself, is enjoyable, are the best. I love being on my longboard. I can skate with friends, or alone, and I can improve within my chosen discipline endlessly. If I so desire I can get competitive, or I can keep my progress to myself. Find something you enjoy.
@@konan8353 Thanks Konan, there were a few pursuits I enjoyed, unfortunately I let them slip due to a series of painful life events that unfolded over the course of the last year. Some I am still trying to come to terms with. However, I have moved forward over where I was a few months ago. Not a lot, just a bit, but I'll take it. Wishing you well 🙏🙏
I read Victor’s book and met him. He was such a brilliant man. Great video. ❤️
Happy for you ☺️ 💐🤍🤍🤍🤍
book title please?
@@shawnsh Man’s Search for Meaning
How old are you? And where did you meet him?
@@dreamtube3433 I’m 58. I met him in Texas. He was doing a book tour and signing. I was only 13. He spoke at our school. I never forgot.
How pleasant this all sounds, and yet how distant! I understand there's value in it, but at that torrid low point of deep loss and suffering, everything within revolts against letting in the light. The body sags against dragging its own weight, the stomach tied in a thousand knots and a wrenching tightness sitting dominantly above. It takes enormous effort to even move. One just needs to wait it out. Yes, please take help. But the suffering usually has its own incubation period. Staring into the abyss or just perhaps the blank slate of a ceiling, one just needs to wait it out.
But you will never be the same after this experience.
I would like to think that such extreme agony then is both a curse and blessing of a guest .... one who doesn't believe in feeding you the pink candy of optimism..but also one who never leaves without rewarding you richly for putting up with him.
Yes, I would like to think so. But what do I know? For he has still not left my side.
My creative writing professor would have had an orgasm reading that comment
@@yebro4636 🤧🤣
So terrible. Many of us are in the same mind state. Probably my mind is just opening now after watching this. Either we live for ourselves or for others. Life is just to be happy. Meanwhile living a life with purpose keeping us to drive throught sufferings trying to do only good for ourselves and others.This is what we exsctly have to do. God bless whoever reads this and give you peace in mind and heart. ❤
The biggest suffering is the weight of years, and the feeling of shame, guilt that you cannot apologize to oneself, growing daily more and more!
Great video and great timing for it. I just finished Frankl’s “Man’s search for Meaning” last week and prior to that I read your “Unoffendable”. Good stuff. Keep up the great work.
While seeking to deepen my consciousness over the last year and discovering TH-cam as a useful portal, your channel and its contents have provided an abundance of insight for which I am grateful. No doubt massive effort and consideration go into creating your beautiful videos, however the works flow with apparent effortlessness, grace and humility. All efforts to create and share your existential insights are greatly appreciated, and the ripples produced are spreading far and wide. Thank you.
I agree. I suggest you to check Pursuit of wonders and Exurb1a's channel if you haven't yet.
well said
It's important to realize that we humans have been dependent on meaning for most of human history. It's a survival mechanism that exists in the brain because a life with no meaning isn't inherently worth living for.
As a result, for some people, its religion, God, family, community or whatever else you can think of. But it's when we create meaning in our lives that we then find something to live for and are able to go through whatever life throws at us. It is meaning that gives us a reason to keep on going, especially when times are hard.
The issue with the train of thought of anything and everything can be labelled as "what is the point". It is very challenging to give meaning to a simingly meaningless existence. But one thing is for certain, emotions flows to a person's state every living consciousness second. I chose to observe it, instead of labelling or making it a problem to be solved. Trying to understand my relation of the self to the world around me. There is no concrete solution or answer to this dilemma but there is truth to looking at the compassion and love the world has, the self in relation to the pain and suffering the world brings, and giving a purpose on the present moment not the future nor the past. There is another perspective to this discussion the philisophy of death or non existence, it give value to the short breath, the limited time we have here in the living world. I for one am stuck as well even now, there might be the time where i physically give up but i choose not to give up on my own conscious self. It is the only constant being i can trully trust with genuine certainty, this is not my physical earthly self but the voice in my head, the me that defines me.
Absolutely profound and this is absolutely for me at this moment in my life. I have become consumed by depression and negativity … I can’t lift myself out of it, it would be foolish to try that … don’t ever tell someone to cheer up when they are depressed … like putting your head in a lions mouth.
So if I stop trying to find happiness by following a course of action, instead, maybe start by looking around me and become aware of others needs … avoid the guilt trap… do something because YOU choose to…. Don’t fall into the excuse trap of avoiding … I guess it’s “choosing” and not always knowing how you can achieve but choose to accept the challenge…?
He talks my heart. My heart is physically aching. All i want is to quit living because it’s not my thing. I’m not like other people I don’t have a dream or desire for living. When i try to open up to my parents they tell me I should pray it out or it’s evil eye or some shit..
Anyone else you can open up to?
Find peace within now.
@@globalheartwarming you
@@nooneofimportance934 found it thanks
@@TH-camuser10873 Try a therapist or counselor or a crisis line.
i have been suffering from this feeling since my childhood days, from standard 1 or 2....yes, kids too can have this feeling..and my life has been a very testing journey so far just due to this inner feeling of world being meaningless....i am 35 today, and spend whole of my life torn between social life and this feeling of meaningless....dont know how long i can carry on...
woooa are we twins? I'm 35 and mine started way too early in my teenage days....I just don't wanna give up but seems like I'm being sucked into the void of emptiness slowly each passing day.
You're not alone. Many of us are! That's why we resonate with this 😊
Hey, I wished to thank and compliment you on the effort you put into the making of these videos. They are such a treasure trove of upliftment, knowledge, serenity and encouragement. Your channeling of energies are immensely appreciated, and I wish you all the very best, sending you love, joy, and peace :)
How dense you are...
I know what I'd die for, but at times I struggle to find what I'd live for.
Thanks
Thank you!
I already keep a drug to end myself about a week, because I feel empty inside. I binge everything that I know it will ruin mysel, but I feel like I can't stop. Today I accidentally slit my fingers while cooking, I feel something from it. I feel pleasure by hurt myself. wanna do it again so damn bad right now, because the pain feels bigger than my wounded heart. I feel so depressed after I'm bed ridden, now my physical health is improving but my mental state is messed up. no one notice and I'm to scared to admit my mental problems, because everyone suffering after my dad passed away and my illness that take a lot of money.
At first I want to search, why I feel relief while slit myself. But my rational mind search this instead. I pray for myself and all the people who also suffering to find their own mean of life and happiness. that we get a better and bright future full of meaningful happiness.
Don't kill yourself
All ur videos are great. However. I found this one to be outstanding! Thanks guy with the great voice! Love the accent too!
Thank you for the compliment 🙏
We are constantly searching for meaning, especially these days, because we are NOT free. If we were, finding meaning would easy.
I agree. That's why I'm throwing whatever I can into crypto. Hopefully it succeeds and I could quit my wage slavery job. I rather be anxious and bored in my million dollar home than depressed that this is my life till retirement when you do have money but your body hurts and aches.
@@henryjohnson-ville3834 yes
Is the emptiness we feel inside because of the lack the of true community?
Community gives trust, security, happiness, peace and meaning.
When I was a kid and had friends at school, life felt simple, I didn't have to be cautious all the time like my social status was at stake or my reputation because I had people I could count on who didn't want to take me down or have incentive to do so.
Watching both '300' movies led me here. I have always lived life seeking for a purpose worth dying for, but am only met with shallowness, fear and egocentricity of man who have lost the will to live, but relinquished all of the energy of their life into preserving whatever miserable endeavour they are enslaved to.
If you are reading this, please know as long as you're still breathing, you still have a purpose✌🏾❤️
We're all breathing. We don't all have or know our purpose.
@@jenster29 I don’t believe that. That may be naive of me, and that’s okay. Whether someone feels like they have a purpose or not, or doesn’t know their purpose… I still choose to believe they have a purpose within them that will add to their own happiness.
I will help people smile and believe in themselves with that as much as I can 😄
Life goals are so simple, yet so powerful. If you have 2 hours for a task and someone distracts you, you lose a lot of time relatively speaking. The same time loss is insignificant compared to a bigger goal
The goal of life is to live. Living means enjoying, sharing good things, prospering and growing.
Live without living is not better than death.
This book has been an underlying thing keeping me going for the past year, easily one of my favourites
I was inspired to to do my very best in whatever I put my hand to do. To be perfect at something is impossible, but it is a goal to aim for in my life. My father and an assistant headmaster at a private school Mr. Malcolm always said to try your best even at the most menial jobs. The reason why is because we are representing God and we should try our best to make a good impression upon those we work for and live with. This gave me an immense satisfaction in my life because I felt it brought me closer to God and made the world a better place to live in.