Taken from following article at NY Times
"The Small, Happy Life" (David Brooks) (link)
Hans Pitsch wrote: “At age 85, the question of meaning in my life is urgent. The question of the purpose of my life is another matter. World War II and life in general have taught me that outcomes from our actions or inactions are often totally unpredictable and random. I am thankful to be alive. I have a responsibility to myself and those around me to give meaning to my life from day to day. I enjoy my family (not all of them) and the shrinking number of old friends. You use the term ‘organizing frame’ in one’s life. I am not sure if I want to be framed by an organizing principle, but if there is one thing that keeps me focused, it’s the garden. Lots of plants died during the harsh winter, but, amazingly, the clematises and the roses are back, and lettuce, spinach and tomatoes are thriving in the new greenhouse. The weeping cherry tree in front of the house succumbed to old age. I still have to plant a new tree this year.”
"The Small, Happy Life" (David Brooks) (link)
Hans Pitsch wrote: “At age 85, the question of meaning in my life is urgent. The question of the purpose of my life is another matter. World War II and life in general have taught me that outcomes from our actions or inactions are often totally unpredictable and random. I am thankful to be alive. I have a responsibility to myself and those around me to give meaning to my life from day to day. I enjoy my family (not all of them) and the shrinking number of old friends. You use the term ‘organizing frame’ in one’s life. I am not sure if I want to be framed by an organizing principle, but if there is one thing that keeps me focused, it’s the garden. Lots of plants died during the harsh winter, but, amazingly, the clematises and the roses are back, and lettuce, spinach and tomatoes are thriving in the new greenhouse. The weeping cherry tree in front of the house succumbed to old age. I still have to plant a new tree this year.”
2 comments:
In another 40 months I would be there (85) but unfortunately Gardening is not my cup of tea. I cannot still make up my mind about 'meaningful' life or giving meanings to my life what would I consider Have gone through 'medical" helping the sick etc., not satisfied.
I often end up thinking and yet cannot assign one thing in my life I say it better in Urdu یوں تو کہنے کو میں اسّی بہاریں دیکھ چکا ہوں مگر مجھے لگتا ہے اسّی خزائیں دیکھی ہیں
Any help?
Uncle, I stop looking for the meaning or purpose in life - I am sure there is one. I am now more concentrated on my responsibilities towards my loved ones in particular and society in general.
Post a Comment