Exploring Existential Dilemmas

"To Be or Not to Be" vs "Not My Will but Thine Be Done"

An existential dilemma refers to a profound questioning or uncertainty about one's existence, purpose, or the meaning of life. It often involves grappling with fundamental issues such as freedom, choice, responsibility, and the inevitability of death. Existential dilemmas can arise when individuals confront the existential givens of human existence, such as isolation, meaninglessness, and the absurdity of life. These dilemmas can lead to feelings of anxiety, despair, or a search for deeper meaning and understanding. 

In the realm of literature and philosophy, two iconic passages stand out for their profound exploration of existential dilemmas: "To Be or Not to Be" from Shakespeare's "Hamlet" and "Not My Will but Thine Be Done" from the Bible. While originating from vastly different contexts, these passages share a common theme of grappling with the fundamental questions of existence and human agency. In this blog post, we'll compare and contrast these two renowned expressions of existential angst and surrender.

"To Be or Not to Be":

Shakespeare's soliloquy in "Hamlet" encapsulates the internal struggle of the protagonist as he contemplates the merits of life versus death. The opening lines “To be, or not to be, that is the question" set the stage for a meditation on the nature of existence and the fear of the unknown. Hamlet wrestles with the idea of enduring the hardships of life or ending his suffering through death, pondering the consequences of each choice.

"Not My Will but Thine Be Done":

In the Bible, specifically in the Gospel of Luke, Jesus utters the words "Not my will, but thine, be done" during his agonizing prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane before his crucifixion. Here, Jesus submits himself to the will of God, acknowledging a higher purpose beyond his own desires. This act of surrender embodies the concept of divine providence and acceptance of one's fate, even in the face of suffering and uncertainty.

Comparison:

Both passages delve into the profound existential questions of life, purpose, and agency. "To Be or Not to Be" reflects the inner turmoil of an individual struggling to find meaning and purpose amidst the challenges of existence. On the other hand, "Not My Will but Thine Be Done" portrays an ultimate surrender to a higher power, acknowledging the limitations of human understanding and the sovereignty of divine will.

Contrast:

While both passages grapple with existential dilemmas, they diverge in their approaches to resolution. In "To Be or Not to Be," the protagonist's contemplation ultimately leads to indecision and existential paralysis, highlighting the human struggle with uncertainty and fear of the unknown. Conversely, "Not My Will but Thine Be Done" embodies a sense of acceptance and surrender, trusting in a higher purpose beyond human comprehension.

"To Be or Not to Be" and "Not My Will but Thine Be Done" represent two distinct yet interconnected expressions of existential angst and surrender. Through these passages, we are invited to reflect on the complexities of human existence, the limits of human agency, and the enduring search for meaning and purpose in the face of life's uncertainties. Whether contemplating our own mortality or submitting to a higher power, these timeless expressions resonate across cultures and generations, offering insights into the human condition and the quest for transcendence.

From Doubt to Faith 

In shadows deep, where questions dwell,

Two passages, in verse they tell.

"To be, or not to be," in strife,

While "Not my will but thine be done," in life.

In Shakespeare's words, the angst is clear,

To live, to die, in doubt and fear.

The soul's turmoil, a ceaseless fight,

Amidst the darkness, seeking light.

But in the garden, 'neath olive's shade,

A different plea, by faith, was made.

"Not my will but thine," the Savior prayed,

In submission, His path He laid.

Comparing, contrasting, these paths we trace,

One wrought with doubt, the other with grace.

Yet both, in essence, speak to the soul,

Of surrender, and the search for a goal.

In "To Be or Not to Be," the human plight,

In "Not My Will," surrender's might.

Through doubt and faith, we journey on,

In search of meaning, till life is gone.

So let us ponder, let us reflect,

On life's mysteries, our souls connect.

For in the struggle, in the surrender,

We find the truth, in depths so tender.

Lessons in Love and Gentleness

Marcus Aurelius' Tribute to His Grandfather

Painting by Joseph-Marie Vien (1765).

Journey of Gentle Strength

In the annals of history, there are stories that transcend time, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of generations to come. One such tale is that of Marcus Aurelius, the revered Roman Emperor known for his wisdom and stoic philosophy. Yet, behind the illustrious emperor lies a poignant narrative of familial love and profound influence, particularly from his grandfather, the consular Annius Verus.

Marcus Aurelius' journey into greatness was shaped by the guiding hand of his grandfather, who stepped in to raise him upon the death of his father. This act of paternal devotion laid the foundation for a bond steeped in love, respect, and profound wisdom.

On the very first page of his renowned work "Meditations," Marcus Aurelius pays homage to his grandfather, expressing deep gratitude for the invaluable lessons imparted to him. He acknowledges how his grandfather taught him the virtues of gentleness and meekness, steering him away from anger and passion.

“Of my grandfather Verus I have learned to be gentle and meek, 

and to refrain from all anger and passion.”

The significance of this tribute extends far beyond mere familial sentimentality. It serves as a testament to the transformative power of love and mentorship, highlighting the profound impact a guiding figure can have on one's character and outlook on life.

In a world often characterized by strife and discord, the example set forth by Marcus Aurelius and his grandfather serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration. It reminds us of the enduring value of compassion, understanding, and emotional resilience in navigating life's challenges.

Moreover, Marcus Aurelius' reverence for his grandfather underscores the timeless relevance of intergenerational wisdom. In an era obsessed with progress and innovation, there is immense value in honoring the teachings of those who came before us, drawing upon their experiences to inform our own paths forward.

As we reflect on the legacy of Marcus Aurelius and his grandfather, let us heed the call to embrace love, gentleness, and humility in our interactions with others. May we strive to cultivate relationships built on mutual respect and admiration, recognizing the profound impact we have on one another's lives.

In the words of Marcus Aurelius himself, "Waste no more time arguing about what a good man should be. Be one." Let us honor his legacy by embodying the virtues of love and gentleness in our own lives, thereby perpetuating a legacy of compassion and wisdom for generations to come.

To Be or Not to Be

Exploring the Depths of Shakespeare's Soliloquy

Shakespeare's works are renowned for their timeless insights into the human condition, and perhaps none more so than the soliloquy from "Hamlet," often referred to simply as "To be, or not to be." In this blog post, we'll delve into the profound themes and existential questions raised by this iconic passage.

Exploring the Dilemma:

At its core, the soliloquy grapples with the fundamental question of existence. Hamlet ponders the merits of life versus death, weighing the pain and suffering of earthly existence against the uncertainty of what lies beyond. The opening lines—"To be, or not to be, that is the question"—set the stage for a contemplation of life's ultimate purpose and meaning.

The "slings and arrows of outrageous fortune" represent the trials and tribulations that we endure in life, from personal struggles to external injustices. Hamlet considers whether it is nobler to endure these hardships or to take action against them, even if it means facing the unknown consequences of death.

The Fear of the Unknown:

Central to Hamlet's dilemma is the fear of the unknown—the uncertainty of what awaits us after death. He muses on the possibility of an afterlife, wondering whether it offers relief from the suffering of mortal existence or presents new challenges in the form of haunting dreams or eternal damnation.

This fear of the unknown, represented by "the undiscover'd country from whose bourn no traveller returns," holds sway over Hamlet's decision-making process. It is this uncertainty that paralyzes him, preventing decisive action and leading to a state of existential paralysis.

The Human Condition:

Through Hamlet's soliloquy, Shakespeare captures the universal struggle of the human condition. We all grapple with questions of mortality, purpose, and the nature of existence. Hamlet's introspection serves as a mirror to our own inner conflicts and uncertainties, inviting us to reflect on our own lives and choices.

"To be, or not to be" remains one of the most iconic soliloquies in literary history, a timeless meditation on life, death, and the human condition. Through Hamlet's introspection, Shakespeare invites us to confront our own existential dilemmas and contemplate the mysteries of existence. As we ponder the profound questions raised by this passage, we gain insight into ourselves and the world around us, finding meaning in the very act of questioning.

Whispers of the mind

 In the realm of thought, a question lies,

To be, or not to be, where wisdom flies.

Is it nobler, with mind, to bear the strain,

Of life's harsh blows, or to oppose, to gain?

To end the heartache, in eternal sleep,

And bid farewell to sorrows, buried deep.

For in that sleep, what dreams may come to pass,

Once we've shed this earthly coil, alas.

The fear of the unknown, it holds its sway,

Making cowards of us, day by day.

The prospect of a life beyond our sight,

Puzzles the mind, dims resolve's bright light.

But soft, dear friends, in prayers, we find,

Remembrance of sins, in humble kind.

In pondering life's mysteries, we see,

Reflections of our own  

Reconciling Aspiration with Reality

The Pursuit of Virtue

Bridging the Gap Between How We Live and How We Ought to Live

In the words of renowned philosopher Niccollo Machiavelli, "because how one lives is so far distant from how one ought to live, that he who neglects what is done for what ought to be done, sooner effects his ruin than his preservation; for a man who wishes to act entirely up to his professions of virtue soon meets with what destroys him among so much that is evil." This sentiment, expressed over five centuries ago, resonates profoundly in our modern world.

We often find ourselves caught between the reality of our actions and the ideals we aspire to uphold. In a society driven by instant gratification, materialism, and self-interest, the path to virtuous living can seem elusive. Yet, the pursuit of virtue remains an essential aspect of human existence, guiding us toward a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

At the heart of this dichotomy lies the question: how do we bridge the gap between how we live and how we ought to live? The answer lies in a conscious and deliberate effort to align our actions with our values, to cultivate a life characterized by integrity, compassion, and purpose.

Firstly, we must engage in self-reflection and introspection, examining our beliefs, motivations, and behaviors. By gaining insight into our inner workings, we can identify areas where our actions may deviate from our ideals and begin the process of realignment.

Secondly, we must prioritize ethical decision-making in all aspects of our lives. Whether in our personal relationships, professional endeavors, or civic engagements, we must uphold principles of honesty, fairness, and empathy. By holding ourselves to high moral standards, we contribute to the creation of a more just and compassionate society.

Moreover, we must recognize the interconnectedness of our actions and their impact on others and the world around us. Every choice we make, however small, has the potential to shape the course of our lives and the lives of others. By cultivating mindfulness and awareness, we can make choices that promote harmony and well-being for ourselves and our communities.

Additionally, we must actively seek out opportunities for growth and self-improvement. Whether through education, mentorship, or spiritual practice, we can continuously strive to become better versions of ourselves, embodying the virtues we hold dear.

In conclusion, the journey toward virtuous living is not easy, nor is it without its challenges. However, by acknowledging the disparity between how we live and how we ought to live and taking intentional steps to bridge that gap, we can move closer to realizing our highest aspirations. As we navigate the complexities of modern existence, let us heed the wisdom of the ages and strive to live with integrity, compassion, and purpose.