Ben Okri: 'The most authentic thing about us is our capacity to create, to overcome, to endure, to transform, to love and to be greater than our suffering.'

The most authentic thing about us is our capacity to create, to overcome, to endure, to transform, to love and to be greater than our suffering.

In his thought-provoking quote, Ben Okri affirms that our true authenticity lies not in the circumstances we find ourselves in, but in our innate ability to create, overcome, endure, transform, love, and rise above our suffering. This straightforward interpretation highlights the remarkable potential within every individual to transcend hardships and evolve into stronger, more compassionate beings. However, to delve deeper into the meaning of this quote, let us explore an unexpected philosophical concept that further amplifies its importance – existentialism.Existentialism, a philosophical school of thought that emerged in the 20th century, places significant emphasis on individual agency, freedom of choice, and the inherent meaninglessness of human existence. As we reflect on Okri's words, we can find intriguing parallels between existentialism and the notion of overcoming suffering through creation and transformation.Existentialists contend that though life may lack inherent meaning, it is our responsibility as individuals to create our own purpose and find fulfillment. This echoes Okri's sentiment that our capacity to create is one of the most genuine aspects of our being. Through creativity, we can shape our own narratives and forge ahead, transcending the adversities that beset us.Moreover, existentialism stresses the idea that individuals have the power to overcome their circumstances through conscious choice. By embracing our capacity to overcome, as highlighted by Okri, we can actively navigate the challenges that life presents, rather than succumbing to them. This intertwining of existentialist thought with Okri's quote infuses it with a profound sense of empowerment and personal agency.Additionally, both Okri's quote and existentialism recognize the importance of enduring suffering. Existentialism acknowledges that pain and suffering are inevitable aspects of the human condition. By acknowledging and accepting suffering, individuals can develop resilience and find the strength to triumph over adversity. Okri's message aligns with this existential perspective, emphasizing that our authenticity lies in embracing our capacity to endure and ultimately transform our suffering into something meaningful and positive.Furthermore, love emerges as a transformative force within Okri's quote. Love, too, plays a pivotal role in the existentialist philosophy. Existential thinkers argue that forging connections, cultivating empathy, and genuinely loving others enriches the human experience, endowing it with a deeper sense of meaning. Love allows us to transcend our individual suffering, shifting our focus beyond ourselves and embracing the interconnectedness of all human beings. When we love and care for others, we not only better society but also nurture our own growth and authenticity.Lastly, Okri's quote highlights our capacity to be greater than our suffering – a sentiment that encapsulates the essence of existentialism. By harnessing our inner strength and resilience, we can rise above the difficulties we encounter, transforming ourselves and our circumstances. This echoes the existentialist belief that individuals hold the power to transcend limitations, chart their own paths, and ultimately rise above the inevitable sufferings of life.In conclusion, Ben Okri's quote serves as a poignant reminder of our remarkable capacity as human beings. By emphasizing our inherent ability to create, overcome, endure, love, and rise above suffering, Okri prompts us to reflect on our true authenticity. Unexpectedly, the existentialist philosophy enriches our understanding of Okri's words, underscoring the importance of individual agency, the transformative power of love, and the significance of endurance. May we all draw inspiration from Okri's words and existentialism, embracing our capacity to shape our own lives and find meaning amidst the ebb and flow of existence.