Do you know what is one thing common among the 7.7 Billion humans on this planet? They have a LIFE. But did you know that not everyone with a LIFE actually LIVES? Wait what? Having a LIFE is not equal to LIVING?
Well, in my opinion, to have a LIFE and to LIVE are a world apart. And here are my two pieces on it.
The fundamental element that distinguishes between someone who has a LIFE and someone who LIVEs is quite literally the ‘V’ in LIVE. Because without the ‘V’, you have a LIE.
For me, this ‘V’ corresponds to the VALUE my existence adds to this world. It is the impact that I want to bring about via my life.
Another way to look at this value addition is by exploring your PURPOSE.
Purpose is the one thing that brings meaning to my life. Perhaps having a genuine impactful purpose is a lot more important than happiness. Happiness, money, fame, power, feelings all come and go; they are temporary. But leading a meaningful life, having a purpose to live for is what keeps me going. It is what I can always hold onto and get myself through tough times.
As Oscar Wilde says “To live is the rarest thing in the world; most people mere exist.” Everyday, after my pre-sleep meditation session, I ask myself ‘What value did I add to the lives of people? How did my existence matter today?’ and having a solid answer to this is what helps me sleep at peace. It is what brings me content & joy in life. It is what makes me feel ALIVE!
