Agnes Martin: 'Happiness is being on the beam with life - to feel the pull of life.'

Happiness is being on the beam with life - to feel the pull of life.

Agnes Martin, a renowned artist and philosopher, once said, "Happiness is being on the beam with life - to feel the pull of life." This quote encapsulates the essence of what happiness truly means. In its most straightforward interpretation, Martin suggests that happiness is the state of alignment with life, where one feels the irresistible force pulling them towards a deep sense of fulfillment. It emphasizes the importance of being fully present and engaged with the world around us, embracing the inherent rhythm and harmony of life.At first glance, this quote may appear simple and self-explanatory. However, let us delve deeper into the philosophy behind it and explore an unexpected concept that enhances our understanding of happiness. This concept is the idea of existentialism, a school of thought that explores the individual's freedom, responsibility, and the search for meaning in life. By intertwining Martin's quote with existentialism, we can gain new insights into the complexity of happiness and its significance in our existence.Existentialism emphasizes the individual's autonomy and the importance of personal choice. It argues that our happiness is not predetermined but rather shaped by our conscious decisions. In this light, being "on the beam with life" implies an active participation in shaping our own happiness. It is not simply a passive state of being, but a deliberate alignment of our actions, values, and desires with the path life unfolds before us.Moreover, Martin's quote highlights the existential concept of "authenticity." To be authentic is to live in accordance with one's true self, unswayed by societal expectations or external pressures. Happiness, therefore, arises from embracing our individuality and following our own inner compass. It is when we feel the "pull of life" that we are most authentic, fully engaging with our passions, dreams, and core values.Contrasting this existential perspective with conventional notions of happiness, we see how the pursuit of happiness is often misinterpreted as the accumulation of external achievements or the avoidance of pain and discomfort. However, Martin's quote challenges this notion by suggesting that true happiness is found in the experience of life itself, accepting both its joys and sorrows. It invites us to reevaluate our priorities and embrace the beauty of the present moment, rather than constantly longing for future achievements or dwelling on past regrets.Another way to interpret Martin's quote is through the lens of mindfulness. Mindfulness, rooted in ancient wisdom, advocates for living fully in the present moment and cultivating an awareness of our thoughts, feelings, and sensations. By being "on the beam," we become mindful of the subtle nuances and interconnectedness of life, discovering the beauty in even the smallest experiences. This mindful presence allows us to appreciate life's pull, gaining a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world we inhabit.In conclusion, Agnes Martin's quote beautifully captures the essence of happiness. It encourages us to align ourselves with the rhythm of life, to deeply engage with existence and embrace the freedom and responsibility that comes with it. By intertwining her quote with existentialism and mindfulness, we gain a broader perspective on the significance of happiness. It becomes an active choice, an authentic existence, and a mindful appreciation of the present moment. So, let us strive to be on the beam, feeling the irresistible pull of life, and embracing the profound joy that comes with it.