Man's Search For Meaning

Words: 953
Pages: 4

Life and its Meanings As we individuals journey through life, most of us find ourselves pondering a common question: What is the meaning of life? In other words, what purpose is there for our existence? Are we simply a species of creatures that just happen to inhabit this planet, or are we each created for a specific reason which contributes to the greater good of society? Though a wide variety of beliefs pertaining to life’s purpose exist, my opinion on that matter is that the meaning of life in an individual is to find one’s meaning through overcoming obstacles and obtaining a unique viewpoint upon one’s surroundings. Trials and tribulations are aspects of life that everyone faces at some point or another. Whether it be a simple challenge to overcome or a difficult situation to endure, there is no doubt such …show more content…
He explains the variety of ways in which he handles the imprisonment while also delving into the reactions his fellow prisoners had. For Frankl himself, what motivated him to hold the ultimate will to survive was his passion to finish his manuscript as well as the love he had for his wife. He also relied on his imagination to allow him to conduct his own “mind over matter” mental experience in order to keep his mentality occupied with more pleasant images such as memories of his home, rather than focusing on his harsh reality. Upon doing so, Frankl was able to fully endure the hardships of the concentration camp and survive the chaotic atmosphere. Other victims, however, were not so lucky. For many, their mentality was not as strong as Frankl’s. For example, on occasion, the prisoners could be rewarded with cigarettes, but could trade them in for food. Prisoners who held the will to live would normally exchange tobacco for an extra ration of food, but other prisoners who had lost hope would choose to smoke the cigarettes instead – and