One must live, not merely exist

I have watched so many people around me sign their lives away for the almighty dollar. Artistic souls and dreamers working 9 to 5 for the boss man until their dreams have been forgotten – all hope abandoned. Years pass, time flies by, and before they know it they are at the end of their lives and have nothing to show for it other than some material wealth which will eventually rust or be sold. I would like to ask them if that big house was worth it or if their collection of cars comforted them on their death beds?

My father once shared with me the memory of his first job after graduating university. He was in his early 20’s, young and hopeful. He was an artist, a musician, and his life was ahead of him. However my grandmother believed that money, not happiness was the key to a fulfilling life. Unfortunately for my father, he took her advice. With sadness in his eyes, he recalled his first day of work and how on the drive there he was so unhappy and so sick to his stomach that he turned around and drove back home. The next day however he went to work and he has been there, unhappy and bored ever since. Yes his job pays well, and yes it is secure, but it does not make him happy. For 30 years of his life my father has been merely existing, and it will continue being that way until he decides that all the money in the world is not worth it.

It is because of this that I have such a hard time working 9 to 5 jobs, and why despite my happy nature I sometimes find myself lingering in the shadowy areas of depression. I too am merely existing. I too am not living to my fullest. I am however constantly looking for better opportunities and for a way-out, a way to be free and happy. I will not abandon hope and neither should you.

Find your happiness – I believe it is out there. Rekindle the desires of your youth and don’t just exist, but dare to live.

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