The Yearning for More

Are you truly alive?

"What kind of question is that?" you might wonder.

It turns out, it's a profoundly important question—one of the most crucial you could ask yourself.

Am I really living?

Before you respond with, "Of course I'm alive—I'm here reading this," let's delve deeper into the question and then hear your thoughts.

“To Live” has three definitions: from biological, experiential and philosophical perspectives.

Living, from a biological standpoint, means existing as a living organism—a state of being alive rather than dead. It's about survival, focusing on practical actions to ensure continued existence. Many around the world live solely in survival mode, facing limited resources and opportunities, particularly in third-world countries.

In first-world countries, survival mode varies. Some live near or below the poverty line, managing day-to-day to make ends meet. Others live comfortably but paycheck-to-paycheck, burdened by debt, working solely to pay bills without fulfillment or deeper meaning.

This brings us to another definition of "to live": experiencing life actively and fully. It's about engaging with the world, pursuing goals, feeling emotions, and seeking enjoyment beyond mere survival. It involves consumption, acquisition, and the pursuit of external fulfillment—a cycle where more is endlessly sought, yet meaning may be lost.

In the quest for more, whether material or experiential, many find themselves trapped in a cycle that never satisfies—a cycle where the pursuit of "more" paradoxically leads to feeling "less."

Eventually, this pursuit can lead to questioning the very meaning of life. What starts as a whisper of doubt can grow into a deep yearning, a sense that something vital is missing. It prompts us to ask profound questions about purpose and the true essence of living. The third definition, a philosophical definition “to live” is where you begin to question your purpose and what you are meant to be doing in this lifetime. To live in this stage refers to the pursuit of a life that is both fulfilling and meaningful on a much deeper, sometimes spiritual, level.

Reflective Question: Am I truly living?

Consider your current state: Are you merely surviving, enjoying life, or seeking deeper purpose?