My mind is brimming with ideas inspired by Viktor Frankl, a psychiatrist who survived Auschwitz and shared his profound realization: finding meaning in our suffering. In my view, “Man’s Search for Meaning” is a psychological bible that can guide us through even the most harrowing human conditions.
I don’t aim to compare my experiences with Frankl’s; rather, I seek to draw conclusions. One crucial element he emphasizes is tension. After coming across a friend’s Facebook comment expressing a desire for “all peaceful days”, I reflected on Frankl’s concept of tension and its significance in maintaining a meaningful life.
What does tension truly entail, I wonder? Although I’m not far into the book, I can certainly speculate. It seems to revolve around how we face our challenges. For me, the first step is welcoming these challenges as tasks to be resolved. It’s when I find myself shaking my fist and exclaiming, “Not again!” that I’m already on the defensive. Therefore, recognizing that tough challenges will always be present becomes a supportive initial step. The subsequent step involves doing my utmost to address these challenges and, if necessary, enhancing my ability to endure them.
In his book, Frankl speaks from a mastery level about his coping mechanisms during the ongoing, bleak existence of the Holocaust. Within his mind, he strategized, schemed, imagined, and dreamed, honing his behaviors to ensure survival.
The person I am when interacting with a matter-of-fact insurance provider, entitled family members, or defensive clients truly matters. And I yearn to feel the tension of a knee-jerk reaction, to pause, inhale the rich, oxygenated air, and reach for a higher moral ground. In doing so, perhaps I will uncover answers previously unknown to me. After all, this present moment has never existed before, has it?
I’m grateful for a life where I get to aspire to thrive. Still, none of us escape life without experiencing hardships. Who am I because of these hardships, and in spite of them? What will my reactions during the darkest nights reveal about me? I hope to muster greater determination, dig my heels deeper, and respond in ways I’m able to rest my head at ease on my pillow at night.
Love, Jaclynn
Going On 40 