Friday, March 20, 2009

Crisis and the Meaning of Life

I said in “Define Living” that a crisis is a lousy time to start thinking about the meaning of life. It’s a great time to think about the meaning of life, but a lousy time to start thinking about it.

A crisis is almost defined by having a good reason to panic. If there is not a good reason to panic, then it isn’t much of a crisis. Not to say that you would panic. After all, that wouldn’t do you any good. But since there is a reason to panic, you will probably be mentally distracted. Not to mention that you still have to deal with whatever caused the crisis in the first place. In short, you have a lot going on and a lot to think about.

It’s better to have some money saved up prior to needing to replace your car. It’s better to have a first aid kit on hand prior to slicing open your finger with a kitchen knife. It’s better to have a spare tire in your trunk prior to getting a flat. And it’s better to think about the meaning of life prior to having your world shaken. Having a definition of living can be a rock for you in times of trouble, even if that definition changes. It’s something you can hang on to for a while, like some people’s faith or friendships or family. It can help you weather the storm. Have just a start so that your mind has a touchstone when it starts wondering “Why me? Why is this happening?” It can help.

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