Monday, March 24, 2008

Unbearable lightness


According to Milan Kundera, author of The Unbearable Lightness of Being, one's existence and the occurrences within that existence happened by chance and are therefore insignificant in the overall scheme of things. We're not tied down by the consequences of our decisions, so they are considered "light."

But at the same time, according to Kundera, that insignificance (lightness) makes living unbearable.

That's sort of like a postmodern version of this old joke:

"Doctor, it hurts when I do this."

"Well, then, don't do that!"

Want to make life bearable? Then do something significant with your life.

Click on picture to enlarge. Photograph © 2008 James Jordan.

2 comments:

ChrisJ said...

Came to you through Wanda. Your posts brought a smile, so I am adding you to my list to visit -- if you don't mind, that is! Especially like your smiley alligator and egg balancing tricks. I'm sad my "unavoidable responsibilities" kept me from posting something really relevant for Good Friday and Easter, but maybe next year.

James said...

chris, glad to have you stop by. wanda is a neat person and one of my regular commenters.