Life, Loss, and the Lessons in Between

There comes a moment in life when reality strikes—often in the form of loss. When someone close to us leaves this world, we’re left with a silence that speaks volumes. In that silence, a strange sense of enlightenment often arises. We come to truly realize that we are all just temporary guests on this Earth, and any moment could be our last.

“We are not human beings having a spiritual experience; we are spiritual beings having a human experience.”— Pierre Teilhard de Chardin

This realization brings forth deeper questions: What is the real purpose of life? How should we live it meaningfully?

In this world, we are surrounded by people, entangled in emotions, and bound by countless relationships. I believe the best way to live is by embracing the present moment—without anxiety about the future or regret about the past.

“Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift. That’s why it’s called the present.”— Bil Keane

While living in the now, make it your goal to connect with others. Share your joy. Distribute happiness. Build moments filled with laughter and meaning.

I’ve come across philosophies that advocate isolation as a means to escape worldly suffering. But in my view, isolation comes inevitably at the end of life. One day, we will all depart—and with that, comes a natural separation from the world. So why isolate ourselves while we’re still alive?

“The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate… to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.”— Ralph Waldo Emerson

Instead of withdrawing, let’s involve ourselves. Participate in life. Dance, laugh, love, and serve. Engage in every moment that brings joy to you and those around you. That, to me, is the true essence of life—living joyfully and becoming a source of happiness for others.

“Happiness is real only when shared.”— Christopher McCandless