What Meaning Truly Is

The concept of ‘meaning’ takes on entirely new dimensions when we consider not just its explicit definitions, but also the interpretations that each of us personally assign to various subjects. This is the essence of meaning that I address in the title of this article.

Life possesses as much significance as we are willing, eager, educated, and courageous enough to bestow upon it. Stripped of our perspectives, life is merely a sequence of random events, lasting a few decades—if one is fortunate. However, infuse it with meaning, and an entirely new realm comes to life.

It can be argued that the quest for meaning in life is ultimately a personal decision. While I advise against trying to define it on a grand scale, the richness of our existence can be gauged by the fulfillment found in each moment. Mastering each moment equates to a successful and meaningful life. Furthermore, joy is also a personal construct. Its beauty lies in its diversity, activating our souls to bloom like the most captivating flower, unique in its own right. This open soul represents how the universe reveals itself—if we allow it to shine through us.

The Profound Depths of Meaning

You might observe how deeply I permit my understanding of meaning to resonate. There is nothing more fulfilling than experiencing the universe flow through me without restraint. I allow it to convey every message it wishes to share through this humble existence, recognizing that when I am in harmony with the universe, its voice becomes incredibly powerful.

During one of the most arduous periods of my life—a three-year divorce—I learned to embrace this flow by envisioning a wiser, older version of myself who had already navigated this challenge. This perspective allowed me to concentrate on what truly mattered for the future, rather than getting bogged down by trivial details that only heightened my struggles. Viewing life through this lens of meaning helped me find tranquility amidst chaos and enabled me to move forward with dignity.

Don’t permit others to dictate the meaning of your life. Embrace the full expression of who you are and who you are destined to become.

Photography and imagery credited to Katarina Miletic and Antonije De Souza.

P.S. If you feel inspired by this reflection, I invite you to share your thoughts: What would your life look like if you fully embraced the meaning that only you can assign to your next challenge?