Life. - General Discussion Discussion

[–] olioz (3678) 8 years ago

I'm constantly struggling with these thoughts. What is it all about and all that existential bullshit. I don't know how some people do it so easily, you know, be happy about just living the day to day life, go to work, have a family, kids, a house etc. I'm just too busy living in my own head.

Yeah, being human is tough and life is a cruel joke(?)

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[–] arvin g borkar (2854) 8 years ago

Well, I guess it is better than older times when say one is a caveman. Today, at least you know, it is a more civilized version of that. I mean you are out there with whatever you hope to make a weapon of, to be able to slay a beast for your next meal. If you never slay that beast, you are not eating for that night, that next day, next week, or even that next month. If you go out too late to pick fruits or berries, you may never find that bush and thus, no food.

In society now, we all compete with resumes and whatever networks we set up. The good thing is we have safety nets and sometimes, if you are unfortunate to grow up in a bad country, you do not even have that!

We need to thank the people, who created welfare, and everything for the poor. Yes, we should not be sitting on it and not working; however, sometimes people fall for the most minute of things and they need it.

But really, to do all this and just die? Do we, as humans, ever really catch a break?

Even if you are some big shot CEO, you still have shareholders on your butt and you still have finances to worry about (of course not to the extreme as people, who are struggling). Life is crazy!

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[–] croft_alice (12180) 8 years ago

Indeed, it is😉

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[–] Catbookss (13664) 8 years ago

Arvin, you are the most persistently "the glass is half empty" person I may have ever encountered :D

Your focus is entirely on the negative. It's very unlikely anything I can or would say, or anything anyone else can or would say, is going to change that. But if you carry on thinking this way, you're setting yourself up for a very unhappy life. Just a FYI, which will undoubtedly fall on deaf ears, but I'll feel like I tried in any event.

Negative things (those that we dislike) happen in life, sure. But you're entirely discounting the many positives: a beautiful day, seeing a child smile, taking a relaxing nap, those who *enjoy* school or at least parts of it, having a fulfilling job, being *able* to pay bills and the fruits that have come from the services or products we pay for by those bills, being taken care of by our parents (if indeed we were, which not everyone was). The list is endless of things to appreciate in life.

Even this site! IMDb may have kicked us to the curb, but Jim thought of and created this site, and has worked hard to make it an excellent one. It's free to us! A gift! We can donate money to help foot the costs he has, or not. Start with appreciating this. Or don't. The choice is yours.

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[–] Popcorn Kernel (2368) 8 years ago

I think you mean glass half empty.
That glass-half-empty view is considered the pessimist view (focused on what you don't have), and the glass-half-full view is considered the optimist view (focused on what you have, not on what you don't have).
Every one of these perceived 'restrictions' might be seen as a lavish blessing by a glass half full type.
Or by a person whose glass is always completely empty, or by someone who doesn't even have a glass.

Imagine this in your grandpas voice:
Glasses? You have a glass to drink from? LUXURY! In my day we would have drank from an empty shoe except we didn't have shoes!

For example : all the kids who live in countries where they can't go to school, their families can't afford to send them to school, so they have to work in factories making Nikes for rich American kids who are whining about 'having to go to school'.

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[–] Catbookss (13664) 8 years ago

Yes, that is what I meant to say. I'll go fix it in a moment.

Imagine this in your grandpas voice:
Glasses? You have a glass to drink from? LUXURY! In my day we would have drank from an empty shoe except we didn't have shoes![/quote]

:D Yes!

Grandpa: I had to walk 50 miles to school through the snow! Uphill! In my underwear!

Current Grandpa: No high speed cable? In my day, all we had 1400 baud modems!

[quote]
Every one of these perceived 'restrictions' might be seen as a lavish blessing by a glass half full type.
Or by a person whose glass is always completely empty, or by someone who doesn't even have a glass.

For example : all the kids who live in countries where they can't go to school, their families can't afford to send them to school, so they have to work in factories making Nikes for rich American kids who are whining about 'having to go to school'.

Both quotes are very true, plus there are kids who are dying to go to school. Even here, it wasn't all that long ago when they couldn't. Their parents had to take them out of school so they could work on the family farms, just to put food on the table.

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[–] Popcorn Kernel (2368) 8 years ago

Or all the girls in countries where girls are not allowed to go to school. School is like a disneyland dream for them.

Life in general sucks, but it would suck way more in North Korea or Syria or Northeast Nigeria or a hundred other places.
You're allowed to be depressed, I am not trying to shame arvin for that or to say nobody in America has a right to be depressed, (we all have a big slimy orange reason to be depressed) but please recognize your immense privilege!

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[–] Catbookss (13664) 8 years ago

Or all the girls in countries where girls are not allowed to go to school. School is like a disneyland dream for them.

True. I don't, however, think it's accurate to say life, in general, sucks. Are there aspects of it that suck? Sure. Are there times that suck more than others? Yes. Are there people for whom life sucks more than others? Without question.

The past 3-4 years of my life have had a lot of suckage. A lot. Financial hardship and, blah blah, much more, and yes, I've experienced corresponding depression. Even so, there has also been joy and pleasure, and many things to be grateful for, during those years. If all I did was focus on how much it sucked, I'd have been even *more* depressed, far less able to learn anything from it, far less able to pick up and figure out how to heal and move forward.

I'm not trying to shame Arvin, I'm trying to help him.

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[–] db20db (17237) 8 years ago

[deleted]

[–] Popcorn Kernel (2368) 8 years ago

Where? I looked at my notifications and the only one by you has been deleted.

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[–] Catbookss (13664) 8 years ago

Do you mean the thread about whether nature is good or evil? If that's the one you mean, I don't think what Popcorn said was negative; I think you didn't understand what she (?) was saying.

However, saying that life, in general, sucks, I agree is more negative than not.

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[–] db20db (17237) 8 years ago

[deleted]

[–] Catbookss (13664) 8 years ago

We will have to agree to disagree on that.

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[–] db20db (17237) 8 years ago

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[–] Catbookss (13664) 8 years ago

I loved Collateral. Stumbled across it flipping through channels, back when I watched TV. I didn't even recognize Cruise. If I had, I'd have kept flipping, but am glad I didn't because hands down this was his best performance, and it was a great film I'd have otherwise missed.

I don't think Popcorn was at all saying human life is insignificant, and is exactly why IMO you misunderstood what she was saying. (I believe Popcorn has said in the past she's a woman, hence the pronoun.)

What I understood her to say is that we humans are not the end-all, be-all of life on this planet, and I agree, even though we've certainly behaved that way for a couple thousand of years or more. That nature views us as all the same, one not any more -- or any less -- important than another.

I'm also a great fan of Desiderata, and see no conflict whatsoever with what you quoted and what Popcorn said. Desiderata did not say we humans are *more than* the trees and stars.

The funny thing about all of this "special snowflake" thing that's caught on and is so often used by a certain type of person, we are all special snowflakes. Unique, never to be duplicated again, or before.

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[–] db20db (17237) 8 years ago

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[–] Popcorn Kernel (2368) 8 years ago

I don't think you can really argue about something as subjective as 'does life suck'.
It's like arguing if a TV show sucks or not. Someone somewhere must like it, but you will never convince everyone that it's a good show. It's like arguing about what is the best flavor of ice cream. It's a matter of opinion. Your favorite flavor is the best... for you.

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[–] Catbookss (13664) 8 years ago

Well, except, we are ALL here, living life, no? It's not like choosing what we think is the best flavour of ice cream.

It is subjective to a point, yes. Which was pretty much my point. It's like the Einstein quote I brought up in another of Arvin's threads: ""I think the most important question facing humanity is, 'Is the universe a friendly place?'"

If you consistently perceive it as a hostile, unfriendly place, filled with suckage from cradle to grave, without the ability to focus on and appreciate the things in life that are joyful and beautiful, that is what you'll experience, because it's where your focus lies.

There's a documentary, which I haven't yet watched, about who the happiest humans on the planet are. They are not in a first world country; their lives are not all peaches and cream. Wish I could recall the name of the country, or the documentary. It'll come to me.

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[–] Popcorn Kernel (2368) 8 years ago

You are confusing the analogy.
I'm not saying that you can choose between life here in this universe vs life in 31 other universes.
I'm saying you (and I, and everyone) can have their own OPINION on whether life in this universe sucks or not. And since it is an opinion, like your opinion on whether you think guava/bacon chip ice cream sucks, they can all be true and all be false, simultaneously.
For the person who loves guava/bacon chip ice cream, it does not suck.
For the person who loathes it, it does suck.
Both statements are true and do not contradict each other.

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[–] Catbookss (13664) 8 years ago

I'm not confusing the analogy; it's that your analogy doesn't apply.

Do you truly believe that anyone who says "life sucks" is being truthful and accurate? Really? ALL of their life sucks, there's not anything at all good in it? Sorry, I ain't buying that. Apples and oranges from personally disliking pig fat and cat poo ice cream.

One is about one's personal tastebuds that dislike the taste or texture or whatever; the other is about negative polarized perception that is inaccurate because it's so distorted.

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[–] Popcorn Kernel (2368) 8 years ago

Do you truly believe that anyone who says "life sucks" is being truthful and accurate?

Yes. It's just as accurate as if you said life is wonderful. or just as inaccurate.
You don't know anyone else's life.

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[–] Catbookss (13664) 8 years ago

It's just as accurate as if you said life is wonderful. or just as inaccurate.

You just proved my point. NO ONE'S life entirely sucks or is entirely wonderful. Both statements are equally inaccurate.

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[–] Popcorn Kernel (2368) 8 years ago

That's why I said in general life sucks. I did not say in specific, to each specific person it sucks.
It's really not about you.

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[–] Catbookss (13664) 8 years ago

You first said:

"life sucks and then you die.
is this breaking news to anyone?"

I have no idea why you felt you needed to say "It's really not about you." I never said or indicated it was. If you want to interpret whatever I said that way, that's your choice.

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[–] Popcorn Kernel (2368) 8 years ago

"life sucks and then you die."

Do you think I invented that saying?
It's been a common catchphrase for decades.
It was in Pet Sematary.
source: https://www.reddit.com/r/quoteporn/comments/24f5it/source_life_sucks_and_then_you_die/

It's used in comedy routines.
https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/215887-most-people-think-life-sucks-and-then-you-die-not

There is even a thrash metal album by that name.
It's common speech and common knowledge, Many people have known this before you and I were ever born. I did not invent this. I am merely conveying the information to someone who has apparently just discovered this fact.

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[–] db20db (17237) 8 years ago

I've been aware of this for years only the version I heard was, " Life is hard, then you die. " I like it better.

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[–] Catbookss (13664) 8 years ago

Did I *say* or even intimate you'd invented it? It being such a common expression for decades, did you really believe the OP hadn't ever heard it before and you were actually conveying "information"?

… You know what? It's not worth my saying any more. Obviously you enjoy being adversarial, for reasons known only to you. I thought we were having an actual discussion. My mistake.

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[–] arvin g borkar (2854) 8 years ago

You would be correct in your assessment, I always think of the worst case scenario.

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[–] Catbookss (13664) 8 years ago

It will never serve you well. Just saying.

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[–] kittensandpuppies (164) 8 years ago

God gave you life and a free will of what to make of it. Sure, some are born in situations that are much tougher than what others may face. No one's life is the same or are dealt the same cards. Some are born sick or without limbs. It sounds like you are more blessed than that.
If we really look at our lives and listed all the things we've been blessed with, you may be surprised to learn you have more to be thankful for and less to complain about.

The meaning of life is a big question for most, I would think and you can easily get burned out doing the same thing day in and day out. I know I've experienced this myself. I'd get up, go to work, come home, eat dinner, watch some TV, go to bed and do it again the next day.
It wasn't until I let Jesus in my life did anything change. My outlook on life became completely different. Everything was that much richer because the 'void' had been filled in a way that nothing else could even begin to compare or last in the way Jesus does.
I grew up with 'religion' but not with the living God. Religion is nothing but a man made idea with some Christianity sprinkled in. I always thought I was a Christian until I really became one.
The 'blinders' had been removed. Everything was so much clearer.
I've been married a long time now and have grown kids of my own. Most of the time I feel like I do the same things day in and day out but I have an unexplainable joy and peace inside me. I view things more in a positive light than a negative one and I have an abundance to be thankful for. Do I have it easy? At times I don't. Everyone goes through things. This is one way we grow and learn.
No matter what happens, my faith is so deep that no one can snatch that from me and I know where I'm going when I die. I know I will live eternally with my Savior, Jesus Christ.
It saddens me deeply to think of those who won't go to heaven, and many won't. It has nothing to do with "being a good person." None of us are because of sin.

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[–] arvin g borkar (2854) 8 years ago

Yes, having a crutch would definitely help you stay in denial.

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[–] kittensandpuppies (164) 8 years ago

Wow! I was being sincere. I would hardly call the God of everything a crutch.
Best wishes to you.

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[–] db20db (17237) 8 years ago

I know you were. Apparently his crutch is constantly playing the 'victim card ' here.

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[–] kittensandpuppies (164) 8 years ago

Is that right?

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[–] db20db (17237) 8 years ago

I'm not sure I understand your question.

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[–] kittensandpuppies (164) 8 years ago

I just meant it as "oh really?"

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[–] Catbookss (13664) 8 years ago

I'm not religious, but I don't think it's fair to assume that those who are have a crutch and are in denial, and it is disrespectful. Although, giving you the benefit of the doubt, you may not have intended it that way.

I do agree with kittensandpuppies on this:

If we really look at our lives and listed all the things we've been blessed with, you may be surprised to learn you have more to be thankful for and less to complain about.[/quote]

But not on this:

[quote]those who won't go to heaven, and many won't. It has nothing to do with "being a good person."

I don't believe in a heaven (or hell) per se, but I think being a genuinely good person has everything to do with everything meaningful in life, and any afterlife, if there is one.

Added: Okay, I have NO idea what I'm doing wrong with quotes. If anyone else can figure it out, please feel free to tell me. Otherwise I [giveup]

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[–] arvin g borkar (2854) 8 years ago

I think people just need to take a good look at life and prepare for the worst. If you prepare for the worst, everything gets better from then on right?

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[–] Catbookss (13664) 8 years ago

Well, you know what they say. Expect the best, and prepare for the worst. You're missing the first part.

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[–] kittensandpuppies (164) 8 years ago

That's the saying, cat.

It seems to me that throughout my life, people who expect bad or disappointing things to come their way so they're not "let down" when it happens are usually nervous, negative and just plain miserable people. Always waiting for the other shoe to drop.
Some of these people I know personally are even on depression medication which makes me wonder how bad they'd be if they weren't on it. I'm not making light of what's going on inside them nor am I saying the meds aren't necessary for them.
I also have noticed they try to make everyone around them just as miserable as they are and they'll disregard anything positive you may say or how you live.
They also tend to be insecure.
These are just my observations.

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[–] kittensandpuppies (164) 8 years ago

From one cat to another;) I appreciate your response. Even moreso since you don't believe in heaven or hell but were respectful toward my post.

Please don't misunderstand, being a genuinely good person IS something we should all strive to be! All I was saying, and you may not understand this or believe it, but many people are under the wrong impression on what gets a person into heaven. Jesus is the only way. He paid the penalty for our sins on the cross. We can't save ourselves.
Our good deeds here on earth aren't good enough before a Holy God and it's impossible to earn our own way.

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[–] Catbookss (13664) 8 years ago

Hi Kittens. I believe in being respectful to others, whenever possible, whether or not I agree with them, particularly if they're sincere.

A discussion about theology between us is unlikely to bear any fruit, because our views are fundamentally too far apart. However, I'll be brief in what I do believe.

If there is such a thing as heaven, I cannot and do not believe that Jesus is "the only way." This will probably sound like blasphemy to you, and I assure you it's not my intention, but I think if Jesus were here, in physical form and able to speak, he'd disagree with you. I think he'd agree that our good deeds, being a kind, decent, and compassionate person, or making the effort to be, is all that matters, including being let into heaven, if there is such a thing (which I don't believe, at least not in the way that religious people do).

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[–] kittensandpuppies (164) 8 years ago

I appreciate your kindness and sincerity, cat.
It is nice to have a pleasant conversation with someone with opposing views, especially online because they tend to get heated.

I'm anything but religious though. I find religion corrupt.
I speak from a biblical perspective.
The Bible is very clear on Jesus being the ONLY way. It sounds very exclusive, doesn't it? That's because it is.
The devil is very sneaky and he knows he's going to hell and he wants to take as many people down with him. He's the father of lies and he loves to tell the world there are many paths to heaven, which is not biblical in any way, not to mention a complete insult to God.

Of course Jesus wants us to do good deeds, be kind, compassionate, etc. Those are all wonderful things He teaches. God's Word is clear that we could never do enough on our own accord to enter heaven and that's why He sent a Savior.
God's word says without the Son, there is no life. Jesus said "I am the way, the truth and the life."

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[–] Catbookss (13664) 8 years ago

Hi again Kittens. Yes, it is very nice to have a pleasant conversation on a topic that usually gets terribly heated and usually unpleasant and disrespectful of the others' views.

I have to say I don't understand and am baffled by the majority of your post. You say you're anything but religious, but then continue on saying things that are very religious.

Perhaps we should define the terms religious and religion so we're on the same page.

Religious:

1. Relating to or believing in a religion.

1.1 (of a belief or practice) forming part of someone's faith in a divine being.

Religion:

1. The belief in and worship of a superhuman controlling power, especially a personal God or gods.

1.1 A particular system of faith and worship.

Christianity is a religion, as is Judaism, Buddhism, etc. You are obviously of the Christian religion, and are religious in that faith. The Bible is a religious book, the Old Testament being from the Jewish religion, the New Testament being of the Christian religion, and the Christian Bible being comprised of both Old and New Testaments, although primarily focused on the New.

Perhaps you meant to say you feel organized or modern organized religion is corrupt?

In any event, I do not believe in the devil. I recognize that you do, and that's fine by me. I also don't believe the Bible is God's Word, and I know you do, even though half of the Christian Bible is also a large part of the Jewish Bible/scriptures, and Jews do not believe Jesus was the promised messiah.

IMO, the Bible -- both old and new testaments -- has some excellent wisdom and advice in them. As does the Koran, and other works, which you undoubtedly think are also the devil's work. These writings are 2000+ years old. Some things in them are as relevant today as they were when they were written, because they deal with aspects of human nature, which are the same now as they were then. Other things are not -- again, in my opinion.

Ugh, my new keyboard .

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[–] kittensandpuppies (164) 7 years ago

Sorry for the delay in responding.
Spiritual talk is complicated to explain; especially online.

I don't associate myself with any "religion." I'm a Christian, plain and simple. Christian meaning "follower of Christ."

Here's what I believe to give you a better idea of where I'm coming from:
I believe Jesus is the Son of God. I believe in the Trinity (The Father, The Son and The Holy Spirit). I believe Jesus was born of a virgin, Mary. I believe Jesus died on the cross for our sins and Jesus rose again on the third day, proving his sacrifice was sufficient. I believe if anyone truly surrenders to Jesus and asks to be saved, repents from their sins, will be saved.

I grew up in a "religion"...one that told me I can "work" toward my own salvation (false).
Told me to pray to Mary and "saints" (false)
Told me that baptism in part saves me (false)
Told me that Purgatory is where you go first when you die (FALSE)
Told me to pray for the dead to get them into heaven (false)

These are just a few examples (there are many, many more).

It's true they told me that Jesus is the Son of God and they also believe in the Trinity. Like I said earlier, many religions sprinkle in some Christianity but add their own ideas (lies) to it, which are very dangerous. Anything added to or taken away from is dangerous.
This was a ritual-type of church I grew up in and it holds people in bondage. They're better off being athiests. That might sound shocking for me to say but they're wasting their time. Jesus was the perfect sacrifice and paid the FULL penalty. There's nothing we can do to "earn" our salvation.

Churches or rituals themselves can't save anyone. Only Jesus saves.

Christianity in and of itself really is not a religion but I can understand why the world makes this mistake. Guess who had more issues with "religion" than anyone? Jesus did.

Continued....

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[–] Catbookss (13664) 7 years ago

Hi Kittens,

Well, it's difficult to form even the basis of a discussion if you don't acknowledge that Christianity is a religion. Christians are follows of Jesus Christ, Buddhists are followers of Buddhah, Muslims are followers of Muhammed, and so on. They are all religions.

How then is Christianity *not* a religion, and what then is your definition of religion?

I already understood where you're coming from, and I'm sure it won't come as any surprise to you that I don't believe any of those things :)

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[–] kittensandpuppies (164) 7 years ago

I don't know how else to explain it, cat. As another poster kindly mentioned earlier on this thread, Christianity is a relationship instead of a religion. I understand that it can be classified that way especially to those who don't believe. I can understand why this can sound confusing but I wholeheartedly stand by it.
I'll give it another go.
I follow the Word of God (or try to as best as I humanly can) instead of man-made rules or traditions of a particular church, what I call "religion" which answers your question about the definition of "religion."
I grew up "religious." I followed what the church said to do according to them. It wasn't until I accepted Jesus as my Savior that my eyes were then opened -- as if I couldn't see before and suddenly put on a perfect pair of glasses with clarity and brilliance that I had never experienced.

I then saw and recognized that the church I was born in raised in wasn't teaching the true Gospel but actually sending me down a very dangerous path. Sure, some parts were touched on biblically speaking but they added things in there that aren't biblical and even sold downright lies to me. Anything "works-based" is a religion and I'll take it a step further and call it a cult.

Religion was an opponent of Jesus during his ministry here on earth.
The Pharisees failed to recognize God Himself when He was literally standing right in front of them (John 8:19). They had chosen religion over relationship. Jesus called them out on it.
When people live in darkness they cannot see. This is why the world is so blind.

I know you don't believe but I'm just trying to explain what has been revealed to me because you asked.
Once again, I thank you for giving me that chance.

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[–] kittensandpuppies (164) 7 years ago

Continued....

I know you don't believe in the devil but just because you don't believe doesn't mean he doesn't exist. That's exactly what he wants you to think. He's very tricky and the epitome of evil.

Speaking of things being relevant today, The Bible is relevant and just as current as it’s ever been. People claim it’s “outdated” which simply is not true! They haven’t read it!

God is the creator of everything. He’s the same yesterday, today and forever. The Bible will always be relevant and current. The same principals are applied now as they always have been.

I realize you don’t believe in what I’m saying and that’s ok. I wish only good things for you, cat.

I appreciate us being able to have an adult conversation about this. May God bless you.

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[–] Daggerboard (581) 7 years ago

Such a nice post, kittensandpuppies. You're right. Christianity isn't a religion. It's a relationship.

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[–] kittensandpuppies (164) 7 years ago

Thank you for saying so, Daggerboard! Comments like mine are usually not received very well.
And thank you for pointing out that it's a RELATIONSHIP. I failed to mention that. You are a believer?

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[–] Daggerboard (581) 7 years ago

Yes, I am. And keep posting your comments. You have a gift. The people you might be helping aren't necessarily the ones who post replies.

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[–] kittensandpuppies (164) 7 years ago

It's all Him but I appreciate that, Daggerboard. I hope you'll chime in, too!

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[–] Daggerboard (581) 7 years ago

: )

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[–] klownz (478) 7 years ago

Fuck off you retarded cunt!

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[–] kittensandpuppies (164) 7 years ago

Aww klownz. I think you may have a future in greeting cards.

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[–] Catbookss (13664) 7 years ago

[laugh]

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[–] Catbookss (13664) 7 years ago

By the same logic, just because you do believe in the devil doesn't mean he does exist :)

I have in fact read the bible, and as I said earlier, parts of it are still relevant because human nature has in essence remained the same. However, there are many specifics that were written in it that were specific to the time in which they were written, and are no longer relevant.

I wish you well too, Kittens, and thank you.

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[–] kittensandpuppies (164) 7 years ago

I was waiting for that one! :)
This is a spiritual thing, not so much a logical one. Earlier I explained the blindness of the world because the world lives in darkness.
I know Satan exists because I've seen his work. And my Savior warned me of his evil. He's very cunning and tricky. He seeks to devour (1Peter 5:8)
He knows he's going to hell and he wants to take as many casualties with him. This includes the "religious." It breaks my heart to know that people think they're doing right by God when in reality it's just the opposite and will die in their sin. As I said before, if one is not going to trust Jesus and follow him, they might as well live it up here and be an athiest.

There are many unbelievers such as yourself who have read the bible but can't get out of it what His children can. It's a spiritual book. I'm not at all saying that people are too dumb to get it. That is far from what I'm trying to get across here.
He will reveal things in a different light if you trust Him and are sincerely open to it. Matt 7:7

Take care. :)

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[–] Popcorn Kernel (2368) 8 years ago

life sucks and then you die.
is this breaking news to anyone?

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[–] actionkamen (23176) 8 years ago

The funny thing is, dead people are not the ones complaining about death!

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[–] Strannger (2007) 8 years ago

Very true. I think for some it's relief. But life has it's purpose and while we may not understand how the deep mysteries I think we should be grateful for the time we have left.

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[–] arvin g borkar (2854) 7 years ago

Of course they are. Have you not seen The Sixth Sense. There are tons of spirits, even now, that need help crossing over because they still think they are alive!

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[–] actionkamen (23176) 7 years ago

Nah, everyone just dies easily and don't need help crossing over... Well, except Bruce Willis. He does die hard.

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[–] arvin g borkar (2854) 7 years ago

Now you're getting it

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[–] Cookie.L.A. (2117) 8 years ago

I think what you are basically grappling with is the realization that "There is No Free Lunch".

From the earliest days when cavemen were wandering around, they faced a hostile environment...they had to find warm caves, higher ground that did not flood, non-poisonous berries, etc. They needed cloth or furs to protect them from the cold, ways to make fire and wheels to make their existence more comfortable...none of those things were just given to them.

Unless your forefathers have left you a nice pile of gold (in which case you probably have a lot of emotional baggage anyway, as rich people are somewhat f#cked up), then you have to make efforts to provide for and protect yourself. If you are happy living on nuts and berries and sleeping in a cave, what you do to get those things will be different than if you want to live in the suburbs and raise a large family. If you want to enter a monastery, you will do different things than if you want to be a tap dancer on a cruise ship.

It might give you more hope and energy starting on a path if you realize that the fact you're posting on this website indicates you have advantages others don't...such as those born with Alcohol Fetal Syndrome, or those born into a totalitarian government.

Basically, Yes, we must participate in shaping our own lives.
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[–] arvin g borkar (2854) 7 years ago

Well, in the U.S., there kind of is. But if the poor of today were to live for everyone for themselves, long ago, there would be no survival. In fact, there would be no poor class.

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[–] Terrygg (544) 8 years ago

Life does suck. Even the people who are successful were destined to be that way. Everyone else leads a hum drum life full of more disappointments than joy. That's why they always say life is about lessons learned because you're going to experience more hardships than success. What are the odds of experiencing the same thing that you made mistakes on?

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[–] Cookie.L.A. (2117) 8 years ago

A friend of mine I respect says everyone searches for "happiness" all the time, but that life is a mixture of the good, the bad, and the ugly....all in equal measure.

It's just the way it goes.

Accepting that there is little permanence in our world is a key factor.

Grow, or die.
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[–] Terrygg (544) 8 years ago

Bull crap. I know plenty of people who haven't grown and yet they are still alive taking up space. I've grown so much but nobody is ever going to realise that because they haven't grown with me. And it's that way with the majority if the world.

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[–] Cookie.L.A. (2117) 8 years ago

Well, that's true. I guess the bumper sticker phrase should be "Grow, or Die (inside)". Or "Grow, or be Doomed to Frustration."

I don't usually make shorthand generalizations like that, because of course everyone's different : (

Anyone else want flimsy words of wisdom? I HAVE LOTS!!
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[–] Catbookss (13664) 8 years ago

Testing …

Thank god old backup keyboard appears to be working, whereas New Keyboard just died, mid-post.

Anyway, I agree with your revised bumper sticker, AND am in the mood for flimsy words of wisdom. Whatcha got?

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[–] Cookie.L.A. (2117) 8 years ago

Here's a safe Golden Oldie:

<< Whatever You Focus On, Increases. >>

(this is why complaining all the time doesn't actually make people feel better....it just makes them more bitter.)

(It's also why someone can write a book, one page at a time.)

Maybe this isn't actually that DEEP...but it's a good reminder.

#you'rewelcome
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[–] Catbookss (13664) 8 years ago

I forgot about your flimsy advice post until now, although I read it at the time. You'll never know how well-timed and what a good reminder it was re: what was going on in my life at the time!

#flimsyadviceworks

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[–] Cookie.L.A. (2117) 8 years ago

Wow! LET'S WRITE A BOOK!!! We can hit the talk show circuit...

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[–] TexasJack (12516) 8 years ago

I would read it. (Probably want to keep the manuscript on Cat's computer, though, since yours likes to eat them.)

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[–] Cookie.L.A. (2117) 8 years ago

oh gosh, that's true : (

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[–] Catbookss (13664) 7 years ago

Yes, let's DUE EET! We've even got our first sale assured from TexasJack. What could possibly go wrong?

Ima contact Oprah, ASAP.

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[–] MovieManCin2 (26342) 8 years ago

Life, like shrimpin', is tough. Buck up, Buttercup.

😎

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[–] MovieManCin2 (26342) 8 years ago

The Universe, and Everything.

RIP Douglas Adams

😎

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