The Purpose of Life: Leaving a Legacy of Sound Ideas and Beliefs

The Purpose of Life: Leaving a Legacy of Sound Ideas and Beliefs

Have you ever wondered why we exist? What is the ultimate reason for our existence? These are profound questions that have puzzled philosophers, theologians, and thinkers throughout history. One perspective on this matter is presented by Kazuki Nakayashiki in his thought-provoking article, "人はなぜ生きるのか？（遺物論編）｜Kazuki Nakayashiki｜note" (Why do people live? - The Theory of Relics). According to Nakayashiki, the primary purpose of human life is to leave behind a legacy of sound ideas and beliefs for future generations.

Nakayashiki argues that everything we do, every thought and action, is communicated to the external world. It is through our words and deeds that others perceive and understand us. However, without a sense of purpose or goals, our thoughts and actions may lack direction and significance. It is through acquiring knowledge and understanding that we become aware of our shortcomings and areas for improvement. It is through this process that we develop the will and goals that define our existence.

The author draws a distinction between fools and wise individuals. Fools limit their learning to their own experiences, while the wise learn from the experiences of others and from history itself. Nakayashiki suggests that the focus should not be on whether we believe in God, heaven, or a guiding force, but rather on maintaining a sound conscience through our thoughts, beliefs, and faith. This, he believes, is the essence of true importance. If we genuinely believe in something, it will inevitably be reflected in our actions.

If our purpose in life is to leave behind a legacy of sound ideas and beliefs, then our true calling lies in remaining true to those principles, regardless of the circumstances we face. We must strive to develop knowledge with love and compassion, constantly seek to expand our understanding, and confront the challenges of the world head-on with determination and a sense of purpose.

In line with Nakayashiki's ideas, Gitanjali Rao, TIME's 2020 Kid of the Year, offers some actionable advice. Rao suggests that we should find our passion and focus on making a difference in that area rather than trying to solve every problem in the world. She emphasizes the importance of self-belief, urging us not to doubt ourselves or worry about others' opinions. Rao's message is clear: no matter how big or small, we all have the power to effect change.

Combining these insights, we can derive three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Discover Your Passion: Take the time to explore different areas and find what ignites your passion. Identify the issues or causes that resonate with you the most. By focusing on your true passion, you can channel your efforts more effectively and make a meaningful impact.

2. Believe in Yourself: Trust your abilities and believe that you have the power to make a difference. Do not allow self-doubt or the opinions of others to undermine your confidence. Embrace the idea that change is possible, regardless of the scale.

3. Be Mindful of Your Legacy: Recognize the importance of leaving behind a positive legacy of ideas and beliefs. Stay true to your principles and values, and let them guide your actions. Continuously seek knowledge, develop your understanding, and confront the challenges of the world with determination and a sense of purpose.

In conclusion, the purpose of human life, as proposed by Kazuki Nakayashiki, is to leave behind a legacy of sound ideas and beliefs for future generations. This notion aligns with Gitanjali Rao's advice on finding passion and making a difference. By incorporating these insights into our lives, we can discover our purpose, believe in ourselves, and ensure that our actions contribute positively to the world. Let us strive to be individuals who leave behind a meaningful legacy, inspiring others to carry forward our ideas and beliefs for the betterment of humanity.