Existential Psychology

Razor Edge of Existence

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Could there be a more instant or effective means of increasing the appreciation for your life as it is right now than the stark realization that it could all come to a crashing halt at literally any moment, that whether you want to think about it or not you are always walking on the razor edge of existence? It’s easy to take things for granted when we think they will last forever, and this is exactly how most of us treat our own lives.

But it’s not going to last forever. Sooner or later your life is going to come to an end, and while thinking about it might seem morbid and unnecessary, the only way to really insure that your life sparkles now and that you aren’t filled with numerous dying regrets is by thinking about it, while you’re still healthy in mind and body, still able to shape yourself, others, and the world.

The thing is that none of us really believe that we will be taken before our time, in some freak accident for example, but this doesn’t stop these accidents from constantly happening to the same people who thought they never would. Just realizing for a moment that your existence could easily have been blotted out already and that it could easily happen at any time in the future will make you feel great to do something as simple as breathing in the fresh air, not to mention all the other aspects of life you have probably come to take for granted.

Don’t let yourself be lulled into an uncaring attitude. There are countless people who would give anything to trade places with you right now. One would think that actively considering the razor edge of existence would cause unhappiness but just the opposite happens. It causes happiness and a profound appreciation for what you have going right now, regardless of what your regrets or unfulfilled aspirations may be. So take a moment, raise your arms over your head in triumph, and thank whatever entity or entities you believe are responsible for the miraculous gift you have been given. For now you are alive and kicking, and that on its own is worth celebrating.