The Search for Meaning

It's the height of World War II, and Viktor Frankl, a Jewish psychiatrist, finds himself imprisoned in various Nazi concentration camps, including the infamous Auschwitz.

Here, he is confronted by the dark and unfathomable depths of human cruelty and suffering and witnesses the systematic dehumanization and brutalization of his fellow inmates.

He watched individuals being stripped of their dignity, being abused physically and psychologically to the extreme, and deprived of the most basic human rights.

The conditions in the camps were deplorable, with overcrowded barracks, insufficient food and sanitation, and constant fear of violence and death.

But as he grapples with the unspeakable suffering and unimaginable loss he witnesses, Frankl begins to uncover the fundamental truths about human existence and the elusive concept of meaning.

The result is a powerful memoir called "Man's Search for Meaning”, that holds lessons for us all.

In this memoir, he describes his life's search for purpose and meaning through his experiences and how this can be found even in the most terrible circumstances.

Some of the key lessons we learn from him are:

1. The Search for Meaning in Suffering

In the crucible of the concentration camps, Frankl witnesses firsthand the depths of human depravity and the resilience of the human spirit.

One of the most harrowing aspects of his experience was witnessing the arbitrary and indiscriminate cruelty of the guards and authorities.

Innocent men, women, and children were subjected to unimaginable suffering simply because of their ethnicity, religion, or political beliefs.

But, interestingly, he also observed that those who found meaning and purpose could endure the unendurable, even amid unimaginable suffering.

This insight forms the cornerstone of his existential philosophy: that meaning can be found even in the most hopeless situations.

His observation that meaning can be found even while suffering is still relevant today, where many individuals face unimaginable adversity and hardship.

And I am not referring only to those who, for example, continue to live in abject poverty.

Just think much closer to home. Do you know anyone who lost loved ones or their livelihoods in the recent Covid-19 pandemic?

How did they cope? Were some people more resilient than others?

2. The Freedom of Choice

Central to Frankl's philosophy is the freedom to choose our response to life's challenges, no matter how dire or seemingly insurmountable.

While our circumstances may be beyond our control, he argues that we always retain the power to choose our attitude and outlook.

In despair, this freedom becomes our greatest ally, empowering us to find meaning and purpose amidst the chaos.

Frankl's emphasis on the freedom to choose our response to life's challenges is more pertinent than ever in a world dominated by social media and digital technology.

We are bombarded daily with stimuli and messages that can easily overwhelm us.

However, Frankl's message reminds us that we always have the power to choose our attitude and outlook, even in the face of adversity.

3. The Will to Meaning

Frankl posits that the primary driving force in human existence is the "will to meaning", the innate desire to find purpose and significance in our lives.

Unlike pursuing pleasure or power, which he dismisses as fleeting and ultimately unsatisfying, the search for meaning offers a deeper, more enduring source of fulfilment.

Whether through work, love, or suffering, he contends that meaning can be found in every moment of our lives if only we have the eyes to see it.

In today's fast-paced and consumer-driven society, getting caught up in pursuing material wealth and external validation is easy.

Frankl's concept of the "will to meaning" challenges us to look beyond superficial measures of success and fulfilment and instead seek purpose and significance in our lives.

For example, someone who works tirelessly to climb the corporate ladder may realize that true fulfilment comes from pursuing their passion and positively impacting others.

4. Transcending Suffering through Meaning

Perhaps the most profound insight of "Man's Search for Meaning" is the idea that suffering, when imbued with meaning, can be transformed into a source of strength and resilience.

Despite the pervasive despair and suffering, Frankl also witnessed extraordinary courage, resilience, and humanity among his fellow inmates.

He saw individuals risking their lives to help others, sharing whatever meagre resources they had, and finding moments of connection and solidarity amid the darkness

Frankl himself found solace and purpose in ministering to his fellow prisoners. By transcending his suffering and embracing his role as a healer and caregiver, he discovered a sense of meaning and fulfilment that sustained him through even the darkest days.

In a world where suffering and hardship are too common, Frankl's message of finding meaning and purpose amid adversity offers hope.

For example, someone who experiences a personal tragedy may find solace and healing by channelling their grief into meaningful action, such as advocating for social change or supporting others facing similar challenges.

5. Living with Purpose

Ultimately, Frankl's message is one of hope and empowerment.

He reminds us that no matter what challenges life throws, we always have the power to choose how we respond. By living with purpose and aligning our actions with our deepest values and beliefs, we can find meaning and fulfilment in even the most ordinary moments.

In today's increasingly interconnected and globalized world, you may feel overwhelmed by life's sheer complexity and uncertainty.

Frankl's reminder to live purposefully and align your actions with your deepest values and beliefs is a powerful antidote to the existential angst of modern living.

As we navigate the complexities of modern life, we can reflect on Frankl's wisdom and embrace the challenge of finding meaning in every moment, no matter how dark or difficult it may seem.

He reminds us, "He who has a why to live can bear almost any how."

Until next time, may you find clarity on your "why".

Dion le Roux

1. Frankl, Viktor E. Man's Search for Meaning. Beacon Press, 2006.