Do all you can to have a positive attitude, a super power that will help you through your darkest times.
Having a Meaningful Life – Part 3 of 3. ❤
You can have meaning in your life through your (1) creativity, (2) experiences, & (3) attitude. ❤
Today, we highlight how your attitude has a role in attaining meaning in your life. If you have a positive attitude, you can find meaning in your life even under difficult circumstances. The foundation of this 3-part article is from Dr. Victor Emil Frankl (1905-1997), an Austrian neurologist, psychiatrist, & Holocaust survivor. He was able to have meaning in his life despite going through the horrors of being imprisoned in a Nazi death camp. His father died of illness & his mother, brother, & wife were killed by the Nazis. Dr. Viktor Frankl’s tragic optimism focuses on (a) affirmation of the meaning & value of life, regardless of circumstances; (b) acceptance of what cannot be changed; (c) self-transcendence in serving a higher purpose; faith in others & in something beyond our realm; & (d) courage to face adversity. 🙏
The following dialogue between Dr. Frankl & his patient, an elderly, depressed man who could not overcome the loss of his wife shows the depth one’s attitude has on one’s meaning in life:
Dr. Frankl asked, “What would have happened if you had died first, & your wife would have had to survive you?” 💔
“Oh,” replied the patient, “for her this would have been terrible; how she would have suffered.” 💔
Frankl continued, “You see such a suffering has been spared her; & it is you who have spared her this suffering; but now, you have to pay for it by surviving her & mourning her.” The man said no word, but shook Dr. Frankl’s hand & calmly left his office. ❤
This conversation brought tears to my eyes. My friends, no matter what you’re going through, no matter how tough it is, you have the ability to see the light & keep moving forward. ❤
[I wrote this article for Positive Masters, an e-commerce store at www.positivemasters.com, which provides lifestyle practices, creative writing, apparel, accessories, & fashion to boost your happiness & counter any stress, anxiety, or sadness you may be facing. We offer free shipping for purchases of $50 or more!]
JON RIKI KARAMATSU 