by Aela Ajdinovic

Created on: February 21, 2010   Last Updated: February 23, 2010

We all know when life begins, we even know how it starts, not so sure we are always acquainted with the notion why we decide to bring forth a life into this cruel and harsh world, but it happens. For many, the moment when they first hear the happy news is the most exciting in their lives, and why not, considering they just preformed the most beautiful miracle in the world.

However, have we ever inquired to when we start to exist? Is living the same as simple existence, and if not, what is the difference, can we name it, can we explain?

Every day you are surrounded by people, you may not be aware of the fact, but you are. Have you ever looked at them and just wondered, why they are in such a rush, some are happy, some looked worried. Would it truly be a gift to be able to read people's thoughts, to know their dreams and aspirations?

I believe it would more likely be a curse then a gift. Nevertheless, you must acknowledge the fact, that all have unfulfilled dreams, wants, needs and desires. Some have goals, certain aspects, some a bit more luck in life, while some have none.

It is crucial to accept this concept, because if you do, you are one-step closer to finding out the difference between simple living and existing. There is a purpose to all of our lives and it goes beyond our birth.

To exist means simply to be alive, to breathe in the air every day, wake up each morning and complete your daily tasks as if you are under a spell. In order to live you need to exist first. You need to finish school, find a good job, and start earning your own money.

Now that you are able to take care of yourself you are able to take care of others, which is a different issue altogether. However, to live is to enjoy each and every moment of your life, since you are only given one. Each morning when you wake up, consider that as your new chance to live your life to the fullest.

No matter how boring your job might be, make it fun, make it worthwhile, or simply try to find a more fulfilling work place. There is no shame in change, and in most of the time change is great, and just what the doctor ordered.

Associate yourself with some new and interesting people, however do not forget your old friends, bring them along, change the routine, do something fun.

Most importantly, the goal is to make your life meaningful, not to someone else, but to yourself. Existing might bring you safety and complete protection against something, which need not be labeled as bad experience, though many tend to name it as such. Living, on the other hand will open up a world of possibilities, you just might rediscover yourself again.

The next time you are surrounded by people, pay close attention to their behavior. Is the person next to you smiling, or is it just you, looking at yourself in the mirror. In order to win the fight, you need to be confident and most important you need to feel pride when you look at yourself in the mirror.

Only people who have lived their lives to the fullest can look at themselves and be proud. If you do not think highly of yourself, you cannot expect others to feel the same about you.

To live you need to coexist with others, however to exist you only need yourself. You can win the fight between living and existing, because there is no mountain high enough.  

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