What is the meaning of life?

The question presumes that life has meaning, i.e., purpose, which is one step removed from the most basic question: Why is there something rather than nothing? Why does the universe exist?

The scientific answer is straightforward. Einstein showed that mass and energy are interchangeable. Quantum theory holds that it is possible for “something” (mass, atomic particles) to spring into existence from “nothing” (the energy that pervades the vacuum of outer space), a fact now supported by experimental evidence.

Why does the universe exist? Why does life exist? Why do I exist? These and similar questions have been asked by philosophers of every age.

Answers vary.

At one extreme are those nihilists who say the universe is an accident, a fact, that cannot be explained. It came into existence of its own accord and is without purpose.

At the other extreme are those who posit a Supreme Being created the universe and conscious creatures in it to appreciate the beauty of creation. 

I’m somewhere in between. 

If life has a purpose, and I believe it does, then the overriding purpose of life is to do good, not necessarily for yourself but for others as well. Being a part of a purpose larger than my own selfish needs is the surest path to fulfillment. But to fulfill a purpose, whatever it may be, there must be an organizing principle. Mine is a peculiar version of pragmatism, i.e., do whatever works. Pragmatism is a science-based philosophy. Truth is defined as that which works, either practically or proved by experiment. But pragmatism unfettered by an ethical code can be destructive of moral principles—sometimes doing what works can be immoral. So I try to temper pragmatism with a code of ethics. I find the ethical principles of Christianity to be the surest guide.

This has been a difficult question to answer and I am not very satisfied with what I’ve produced so far. I’ve been much too academic. It has no “flow.” 

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I need life to have meaning. The things that give my life the most meaning are:

Love. Being loved by my family and friends and loving them is the most important thing of all.

Connection. Being included in a larger purpose: my family, my church, my profession, my circle of friends, and so on.

Creativity. It’s the impulse that sustains me: writing, photography, entrepreneurism, etc.

Making a difference. In every phase of my life it’s been important to me to make a difference, to leave things better than I found them.