Build meaning

Some people find meaning prepackaged in cultural traditions, scriptures, or science. If that works for you, great (though you probably wouldn’t be reading this if it did). I’m convinced that ultimately, it’s not a matter of finding meaning. We have to build it ourselves, like a puzzle, one piece at a time. A scripture might be one piece, but rarely the whole picture.

The creative experience is a key piece for many people. The creation of kids is a giant example, but much smaller creative acts have a role.

Creativity can pass your beliefs and values on to kids (telling stories, sharing music or dance). It can leave a legacy once you’re gone (art, craft projects, writing, even home movies). Each can add meaning to your life. It’s often just a matter of giving that activity the credit it is due—becoming more mindful of how it matters to your life and the greater collectives you’re part of.

You can also create meaning for yourself by inventing your own rituals or ceremonies. Here’s one example from my life.

I once had a vision that lies at the base of my sense of meaning and how we’re all woven together. Perhaps what I saw will resonate with you, too.