As time flies we are decaying. Our abilities wane. Our bodies start to lose strength. We see that the sickness is closing in. Maybe death even comes to the people that we know. And by every flying day, we see that our life span is shorter.
But that’s not the only problem. When we look forward we see an overwhelming amount of information. We want to do everything. We want to experience everything immediately. We cannot decide which path we want to choose and with no clear role models and ideals, we are stuck.
So, can we confront the future with a smile and responsibility instead of quitting and giving up? How can we not feel pessimistic when we see the harsh passage of time? After all of this, how can we wake up in the morning and do something?
Viktor Frankl mentions how we usually look pessimistically at life by taking the days from our calendar and looking at how it becomes thinner and thinner with sadness and fear.
Another approach would be to save all the past days in a bunch along with a few notes so we can see the richness of life that we experienced.
That means that every moment is irrevocably saved. It is a moment gained that nobody can take away. This means cherishing every moment that we spend (even the mistakes and suffering). Accepting that every moment counts.
I think that he is pointing to gratefulness.
Which means to see what you have and what is given instead of what awaits you in the uncertainty.
So, be thankful to your friends. Be thankful for your abilities and skills, for the breath that you take. Be thankful to move, to be alive.
How would you feel living without your parents? Without a roof above your head? Without sadness and grief? Without pain and suffering?
This view is not a kind of blind optimism, but rather an activistic view. It’s a practice that lifts us up. That fills us with energy and motivation. We are empowered in this state and we can move.
From this state, it is easier to confront the uncertain future that certainly awaits us. Instead of moving in a state of anxiety, we are calmly and with responsibility choosing with moment to save.
Therefore, write at least 3 things for which you are grateful.