Speaking of hope, my friend posted a wonderful article about Viktor Frankl by Emily Esfahani Smith of the Atlantic and his theory of logotherapy. This theory is based on the belief that having a meaningful life is more important than chasing "happiness." I wholeheartedly agree and love this writer's look at the life and work of an amazing man. Happiness is a feeling, a fleeting sensation. Comes and goes like all other emotions in the human animal's life. But purpose? That is a staying force. The thought that there is meaning in one's existence, that their is an obligation to others in society, is different. Connections to others, be it animal, human, or even environmental, makes us who we are. Whether it is crafting a gorgeous object that brings joy to someone else, or teaching someone a skill or concept that they can use to make meaning in their own lives, or simply giving a macaw a soaking spray bath on a hot summer afternoon, it is our commitment and action that define the meaning of our lives, and contribute to our sense of personal accomplishment and life satisfaction. Through our own existence we can facilitate positivity in the lives of others. This can bring happiness of a more permanent kind.
The article also says that when bad things happen to people, when suffering occurs, having a life purpose is essential. Meaning entails suffering. Being a "giver" rather than a "taker" builds on life satisfaction, and people who actively seek "happiness" in terms of the feeling alone, tend to be more selfish and do not have the life satisfaction that those who forgo their personal needs in favor of a greater good. People who live for meaning tend to risk their own happiness for the benefit of others, knowing it is the right thing to do. I have found this way of living to be my own, long before I read Frankl, and found myself nodding through every page in his short revolutionary book "Man's Search for Meaning." This doesn't mean inducing suffering in one's own life or being reckless; it just means following a path that is not hedonistic in nature, that helps others be their best selves, that takes responsibility for the parts of other's lives that can be made better because of one's efforts.
Author Eric Maisel has spent his career studying this theory as it applies to those in creative careers. He believes that creating -- be it art, music, writing, dance, etc. - is a form of meaning making in one's life. Not meaning seeking, but meaning making. Almost like a religion. By being our best artistic selves, and allowing ourselves to be our best artistic selves despite the frequent lack of monetary and cultural rewards, we are contributing to the world and forming meaning for our own lives through connection to others. He is a pioneer in the field of Creativity Coaching and I was fortunate to take an online course with him that helped me become a more sensitive teacher to my students' needs. As dark as my personal physical life can be sometimes due to RA stuff and now The Back, the knowledge that I have a purpose -- as a teacher, and artist, a friend, and pet-momma -- keeps me feeling hopeful. Life must go on!
Speaking of which, the birds need their brekkie and Hapi is asking for his toast. The ice pack on my back is starting to work, and the pain meds are kicking in. Time to get to all those things that need doing, hopefully including art!
What will you make today?