by DThere

Created on: May 09, 2011

A good life is defined by each person. This definition process occurs within and requires a particular degree of self awareness and the capability of recalling past events. A good life is defined by level of satisfaction, degree of pleasure, and by contentment with what one is doing, had done, or is planning to do. For many, having a concept of a loving God is helpful. How does having "God" in ones thoughts helpful? A sincere belief that there is a powerful Loving Presence backing you up, listening to you, having your best interests in mind provides a supportive foundation for building self-esteem, for meaning, and a strong reason to continue living especially during difficult times. However, a belief in God is not required for one to live a meaningful life or to be content. For one can find pleasure in current activities, future planning, and have satisfaction from memories of what one has done. Self-esteem and meaning can be found in ones activities and relationships with others.

One can enjoy ones life without a belief in God. To the degree that anyone can exercise freedom of choice, there are opportunities to select tasks, activities, and relationships that can result in feelings of statisfaction. Whether one believes in God or not, evaluating ones current activies, making changes in thoughts and behaviors, and contemplating personal changes for future tasks is someone almost everyone can do. There are those who are limited by physical or mental impairments.  Physical impairments may limit mobility or the types of tasks one engages in. Physical impairments can also affect mental activities. Some with brain damage may not be able to reflect on personal activites or may not even be aware of themselves. Such unfortunate people cannot make choices to increase their content, however, many of them may be content in the most simplest of activities that most of us take for granted. Some with mental impairments may also be unable to reflect on what they are doing. Some may spend years unaware of their actions, having no dreams, hopes, or desires. They exist perpetually unaware. There are degrees of consciousness and self-awareness.

A good life can also be defined from a moral perspective meaning that one engages in right behavior with good motives. Right behavior is defined by others and/or individuals. Definitions of good behavior can vary from person to person. Certain cultures expect people to show respect for authority but others do not. Some individuals

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>