2012 – 6th Grade National 4th Place Winner

Ashley Erickson, Minnesota.

What is the meaning of life ?

“When you were born, you cried and the world rejoiced. Live your life so that when you die, the world cries and you rejoice.” Old Cherokee proverb

What is the meaning of life? To me, the meaning of life is to find your purpose, your reason for being, and to share it with others. I have often wondered what my role is in this world stage—why I was born when I was, where I was born, and the family I was born into. The answers to these questions can be a springboard or a hindrance to finding your true potential. If we use the play as life analogy, what role (what purpose) will you play? Will you have a starring role, or have a bit role, be the set designer, or perhaps the director? All the roles are essential for the play to work (life), you will need to figure out which role is best for you. For some, their purpose in life will be revealed in their youth, for others they might have to wait a lifetime to come to that realization.

I also believe the road to self discovery in searching for the meaning of life will be different for everyone. And in that search—the knowledge, education, spirituality, and self awareness gained will help mold the purpose. In addition, once you find your purpose, it is imperative to share it with others. A life not shared is not really a life lived in my opinion. Moreover, you may inspire others and perhaps not realize it. A chance encounter with you could be the spark that helps them find their purpose in life.

So what role will you have in the Play of Life? I hope I don’t have a cameo role. I want to make a difference with the one opportunity I have! When the final curtain falls in my life, I would love to hear a standing ovation, and not crickets in the audience.

“When one man, for whatever reason, has the opportunity to lead an extraordinary life, he has no right to keep it to himself.” Jacques Cousteau.

 

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