Frankl does find meaning in being an inmate in a concentration camp. He knows that being an inmate comes with an immense amount of suffering and very possible death, so he decides to make his suffering and possible death meaningful. I think it takes a very strong will power to do what Frankl does, especially in a situation where it is so easy to just give up. Not only does Frankl make some meaning from his suffering, he thinks of something meaningful to keep him going. It is his wife, and I think it is also the manuscript that he had confiscated upon entry to the camp. Frankl talks about other inmates who are able to be talked out of suicide because they have someone or something outside the camp waiting for them.
I was thinking about giving suffering meaning as we were watching Life is Beautiful. That movie starts out very happy and jovial, but it gets sadder as it progresses. Guido and his family are sent to a concentration camp. They get separated, leaving Guido with his son. Guido tries to protect his son by making the concentration camp a game. He turns the camp rules into game rules. If they follow the rules, they'll get a tank as a prize. This "game" is what essentially keeps Guido's son alive. Guido found meaning in sacrificing and protecting his son. Guido gave his ration of bread to his son on the first day of being in the camp, but Guido ultimately sacrifices his life to protect his son. Guido is shot, but he walked to his death in a joking manner so not to alarm his son. I think keeping up the charade of a game took a lot of determination from Guido. This determination to keep his son alive gave his life meaning, just like Frankl's determination to finish his manuscript helped him stay alive and give meaning to his suffering.
I am thinking through this idea of purpose/meaning in regards to children. It seems obvious that having a child would provide purpose or meaning even in the most desperate of situations. Of course a father would do what Guido does- if only I was so clever or lucky! What does one act for when they do not have children? Others? Other people's children?
ReplyDeleteI think each person acts for something differently. It all depends on the person. Other people's children is a very likely answer to that question. Children are typically seen as the future's leaders, and a lot of people believe that saving children will be better in the long run (for lack of better terms).
ReplyDeleteI would think they would act for whatever gives them meaning. A person's wife, a best friend... Whatever gives a person meaning will be their driving force on almost any occasion.
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