By Joshua Corcuera
I have this professor in college who I and my blockmates remember vividly for a quote she always told our class: life is beautiful. Well, that’s because that professor would give us additional points in a quiz or an exam if we wrote such a line in our test paper.
From a personal perspective, though, reflecting on that line appears to be essential given the social issues we are currently facing. There is a good reason for people to be pessimistic at present given our current problems, including the pandemic and a sharp economic recession. Also, societal ills plaguing us for a long time like lack of opportunity and inequality continue to traumatize us. We should always treat these issues seriously and we must not romanticize human suffering, so what’s my professor trying to tell then?
The beauty of living
To be alive has always been a question among curious humans. Some would ask if what our existence means at all, if any. And how can we consider that we live a good life is an important question to ask as well. According to the renowned philosopher Aristotle, the good life is for a human being to live in a way that is according to reason. Furthermore, this is what separates man from other animals, as man alone has the capacity to exercise reason.
The fact that we, humans, are unique in the sense that we are rational and capable of thinking in this world in a desolate universe appears to be sufficient enough to say that to be alive is such a blessing. Moreover, we are living in what can be considered as a time of relative peace and prosperity where more opportunities to lead meaningful and successful lives present itself compared to the past.
Do not turn a blind eye to harsh realities
Despite these explanations, there is no denying that there are still millions who cannot enjoy a decent life. As we can see, issues such as poverty, corruption, regional conflict, and inequality are still rife in the forgotten corners of the world. Though life is beautiful, life can be even more beautiful when we acknowledge the harsh realities in society and change it for the better. Hence, we must preclude ourselves from romanticizing human suffering and social issues that must be resolved, especially by those in power.
With this in mind, we should remind ourselves not to turn a blind eye to the roadblocks that lie ahead nor should we be deaf to the grievances of those who have less in life. Otherwise, the quote life is beautiful won’t be realized and enjoyed by one and all. It is imperative to challenge ourselves, especially those who consecrate themselves to the service of the people to indeed make life beautiful for everyone.
Our time is limited, don’t waste it
As we try to improve the quality of life and living standards of society as a whole, such a task is certainly difficult and grueling. After all, developed countries took decades to alleviate most of its people from poverty. And as we help improve the world to make life beautiful for everyone, we have to act smartly and swiftly.
Whether we like it or not, our time is limited and we won’t be here forever in this world and one day, we would be gone. We don’t know when and how, but it would certainly come in the future. Therefore, as long as we’re here trying to cherish the beauty of life, we must also improve the lives of everyone one at a time before we perish. Life is beautiful when enjoyed by one and all.
