The Eternal Quest for Meaning in Suffering

Since the beginning of time, human beings have always sought to answer the profound questions related to suffering, endeavoring to uncover the nature and essence of this universal experience.

We ask ourselves: Why do we suffer? What is the true nature of our suffering? What is the origin of our suffering? Why am I suffering now? Why has this happened to me? Why am I being punished? Why do I continue failing? What have I done wrong? This feels unjust and unfair; I have not done anything to deserve this. Why?

“I am angry because life is unfair.”

This, though not a question, resonates as a statement of a perceived belief and supposed truth, reflecting the distorted perception, between the self and the broader world.

This is emblematic of the attitude of one who has absorbed the role of a pessimist, a victim, and an individual engulfed by their own pervasive negativity; yet nonetheless still trying to understand the nature of their suffering.

Throughout history, religious teachers, philosophers, and, in modern times, psychologists and counselors, have dedicated themselves to alleviating the distress associated with suffering. Logotherapists, too, have emerged from this relentless pursuit and quest for meaning.

The unbearable and agonizing aspects of life can only be understood when there is a meaning that alleviates the disparity of the unknown. This disparity is the existential angst perpetuated by the bottomless pit of an existential vacuum.

(c)2024 John Piedrahita