Helen Keller: 'So long as the memory of certain beloved friends lives in my heart, I shall say that life is good.'

So long as the memory of certain beloved friends lives in my heart, I shall say that life is good.

In Helen Keller's poignant quote, "So long as the memory of certain beloved friends lives in my heart, I shall say that life is good," she encapsulates the fundamental essence of how cherished friendships can enrich our lives. This quote resonates deeply because it acknowledges the enduring impact of the connections we form with friends, and how they can positively influence our perspective on life. Keller suggests that even amidst the trials and tribulations we may encounter, the memories of these dear companions bring solace and enable us to affirm the goodness of existence. However, in delving deeper into the underlying philosophical concept of existentialism, we can explore an unexpected perspective that challenges this notion by asserting that life's goodness exists independent of external factors, even the presence of beloved friends.Keller's quote can be understood straightforwardly as a recognition of the profound impact friends have on our happiness and overall outlook on life. When we cultivate deep relationships with friends, their presence in our lives becomes an integral part of our existence. The memories we share with them become touchstones of joy and comfort, reminding us of the love, support, and shared experiences that have shaped us. As such, even in the face of hardships or adversity, these cherished memories act as a constant source of affirmation, reminding us that life is worth cherishing.However, to introduce an unexpected philosophical concept, let us explore existentialism, a philosophy that emphasizes individual freedom, choice, and the subjective nature of existence. According to existentialism, the goodness of life is not contingent upon external factors or the presence of beloved friends, but rather lies within our subjective experience of it. Existentialists argue that individuals are defined by their own choices and actions, and it is through these choices that our lives gain meaning, purpose, and ultimately, goodness.From an existentialist perspective, the memories of beloved friends can certainly bring immense joy and fulfillment, but they are not the sole determining factor in the perception of life's goodness. Instead, existentialism invites us to contemplate the inherent potential for happiness and fulfillment that lies within ourselves, independent of external circumstances. It encourages introspection, self-reflection, and the recognition that our own choices and attitudes shape our experience of life.In juxtaposing these two viewpoints, we can appreciate both the significance of cherished friendships and the underlying philosophical question of inherent goodness. While Keller beautifully acknowledges the impact of treasured relationships on our perception of life, existentialism offers a thought-provoking alternative perspective. Existentialists would argue that life's goodness is not merely dependent on external factors such as memories of friends, but primarily on our own means of finding and creating meaning.Ultimately, the quote by Helen Keller and the concept of existentialism both draw attention to the profound impact that friendships and individual perspectives have on our perception of life's goodness. By valuing the memories of beloved friends and recognizing our own agency in shaping our experiences, we can cultivate an enriched and nuanced understanding of what it means to say that life is good.