John Irving: 'If you are lucky enough to find a way of life you love, you have to find the courage to live it.'
If you are lucky enough to find a way of life you love, you have to find the courage to live it.
The quote by John Irving, "If you are lucky enough to find a way of life you love, you have to find the courage to live it," carries a straightforward message that is both profound and relatable. It emphasizes the importance of discovering a purposeful and fulfilling way of living, and the courage required to fully embrace and pursue it. It serves as a reminder to be grateful for the rare opportunity of finding such a path and to not let fear or doubt hinder us in living it to the fullest.At first glance, this quote might be perceived as a motivational statement encouraging individuals to follow their passions and dreams. It advocates for a life in which one feels truly alive, enjoying every moment and not merely surviving day to day. It reflects the idea that living a life we love is not just a luxury or an indulgence, but a crucial component of personal well-being and fulfillment.However, let's now introduce an unexpected philosophical concept to amplify the interest in our discussion. Consider the philosophy of existentialism, which explores themes of individual freedom, responsibility, and the purpose of existence. In doing so, we can compare and contrast Irving's quote with the existentialist perspective, shedding new light on the significance of finding and living a life we love.Existentialism, as developed by philosophers such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus, emphasizes the absence of inherent meaning or purpose in life. According to this philosophy, each individual has the freedom to create their own meaning and purpose through their choices and actions. In light of this, Irving's quote takes on a more profound significance – it becomes a call to create meaning and purpose for ourselves by finding a way of life we love.While existentialism underscores the responsibility we have in shaping our own lives, Irving's quote adds an extra dimension by acknowledging the element of luck or fortune in finding a path we truly love. It recognizes that not everyone is fortunate enough to immediately stumble upon their calling or purpose. However, even if we are lucky enough to discover our true passion, Irving reminds us that it takes courage to wholeheartedly pursue it. This courage involves overcoming the fear of failure, societal expectations, and the discomfort of stepping out of one's comfort zone.Moreover, Irving's quote implicitly conveys that living a life we love is not a passive endeavor, nor is it free of obstacles. It requires active participation and constant effort. Courageously living a life aligned with our passions demands perseverance, resilience, and the willingness to confront challenges head-on. It means making sacrifices, taking risks, and facing potential criticism or judgment from others who may not understand or support our chosen path.In the face of existentialism's emphasis on the individual's role in creating meaning, Irving's quote encourages readers to reflect on their own lives and consider how they can infuse their existence with purpose and passion. It reminds us that while life may lack inherent meaning, we have the power to carve out our own. By gaining the courage to live a life we love, we actively shape our own destinies and contribute to the overall richness and diversity of human experience.Ultimately, Irving's quote serves as both a call to action and an affirmation of the importance of finding and living a life we truly love. It reminds us of the potential that lies within each of us to create meaning and purpose, while acknowledging the courage required to overcome obstacles and fully embrace our passions. So, seize the opportunity to explore, experiment, and take risks in search of what truly brings you joy and fulfillment, and find the courage to live it.