Just when I discovered the meaning of life, they changed it. Some say that the meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose is to give it away. What say you? Humans are funny creatures. You can tell them that there are billions of stars in the universe, and they will believe you. Tell him that a bench has wet paint on it, and he’ll have to touch it to be sure.
Going through the motions again? You know what they say: G-d doesn’t give you anything you can’t handle. You just wish He didn’t trust you so much. Why bother when the next difficulty is already looming on the horizon? What gives you courage and prevents you from just giving up?
If you don’t have a sense of humor, then you have no sense at all. Please try to find the funny side or even the absurdity to make bleak situations in life a tad more bearable and positive. Have you ever met someone who is going through a truly challenging time but manages to find humor and lightness? Laughter is the only contagious thing you really want to catch, sweet friends. It’s been said: Life doesn’t imitate art; it imitates bad television. If only G-d would give you a sign, like making a huge deposit in your name at a Swiss bank. I get it.
Let’s be honest. How many of us think about our moral values or virtues each day? Pondering your principles can motivate you to pursue what’s important to you in your life. Explore your greatest potential.
Think of a goal you have. Did you take any actions today toward that end? You say that you attach importance and wish to promote your health. What choices did you make today that reflect that? Eating healthier? What’s that? The only carrots that interest you are the number you get in a diamond? They told you to eat more raw foods, so you whipped up another batch of cookie dough. Sheesh.
But truly, try to take one small action today that strengthens your beliefs and ideology. Do not give up on your dreams. Do you ever daydream while you’re driving and wonder how in the world you made it home? Incidentally, never underestimate the power of driving and listening to very loud music. Well, you know what they say: Never lend your car to anyone to whom you have given birth. But seriously, sometimes you just need to take to the open road.
Do something in your daily routine but imagine that it’s the very first time you are doing it. Ponder just how many things you simply did not notice while you were on autopilot.
When do you feel like your best? No doubt you have accomplishments that you would like to bring about in your life. Break the cycle of doing life and start living life. You may have a case of the “somedays.” Fill in the blank, please: “Someday I will…” It’s high time to do what you always dreamed of doing. Now. There are seven days of the week and “someday” isn’t one of them. Make your “someday” today.
Meaning in our lives is what energizes and sustains us. Whatever trying or troublesome situation we may find ourselves in, we know that it is in fact part of our journey. How deep is your connection with others? “I’m fine. Thanks for not asking.” Do you ask most people: “How are you?” You’ll know your true friends because they will actually wait for the answer. Try asking what they are inspired or excited about in their lives.
Make sure to do something that matters to you, sweet friends. Sure, we all distract ourselves with a quick pick me up, but what brings you authentic pleasure? Begin by asking yourself: “Why am I doing this?” Everything has a purpose. Like the sole purpose of a child’s middle name is so that he can tell when he’s really in trouble.
But truly, we are all on this planet to contribute something unique. It’s not enough to merely live unless you are living for something. What brings me meaning may not bring you meaning. Just because someone is on a different road, does not mean they got lost. Find the untold story inside of you. Do not lose your integrity in exchange for comfort. Choose a direction. Ever try to sail a ship with no rudder? Hey, I run a tight shipwreck.
Be sure to schedule in some downtime for yourself, as well. It will give you a sense of control over your environment, so the next time you drop all the groceries, you won’t have a meltdown. Speaking of grocery shopping… The automatic door actually acknowledged your existence. You got a cart with four functional wheels today? And this time you even remembered to bring the bag. See. Life is good. Above all, believe that your existence is valuable. P.S.–It’s okay to live a life that others don’t understand.
Caroline is a licensed psychotherapist, crisis counselor, and writer with an office in Queens. She works with individuals, couples, and families. Appointments are available throughout the week and weekends. She can be reached at 917-717-1775 or at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or at facebook.com/pages/Safe-Haven-Healing.