After reading Viktor Frankl’s book, Man’s Search For Meaning, it seemed the book has changed since I last read it about five years ago. The book itself is the same. I, the reader, have picked up more of the concepts especially on the second half of the book on the topic of Logotherapy.
The first half of the book discusses Frankl’s experience at several concentration camps especially the infamous Auswitch. Many of the prisoners who were at Auswitch were killed. it would seem during this incarceration period that Viktor Frankl would be able to survive and write about it. but, that is what empowered him to survive and give his life meaning at that point. his notes for his book was taken away from him. he had to mentally keep notes and re-write his book with daily experiences in the concentration camp. How does this apply to us, the reader? it applies a lot to us. We all have a vast array of experiences of life. Most are driven by the daily grind of life (just like in the concentration camp).
In order to transcend (or rise above that), we needed to have meaning or definite purpose in life. it is not about finding the meaning of life. Many people fall into that quest that often leads them chasing their own shadow. instead, it is to give meaning to our life- whether it is to work, to love or to suffer. Even in suffering, there could be meaning that will give purpose in one’s life. Thus, it is critical to find life’s purpose in our particular lives. Many other psychiatrist would explain that we (as humans) are driven by sex or power. Viktor Frankl taught, believed, and practiced logotherapy. Having meaning in one’s life is the driving force of humans. After reading (and experiencing) the first part of the book, you appreciate little things in life such as time with loved ones, food and water, shoes, and other basic needs. This sense of appreciation and gratitude will give you a positive perspective in any life.
The second part of the book focuses on logotherapy. no matter how difficult or challenging our life is at this point. We can find life’s meaning in those challenges. We can endure any how if we have a strong enough why. This is a powerful tool for anyone especially if we are down and out. there are particular ways Viktor Frankl explains on how he applied logotherapy to help people overcome phobias and neurosis. This book is a primer on the approach of logotherapy to alleviate those issues.
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