Standing in front of an audience, i freeze momentarily before clearing my throat and composing myself.

“What is the meaning of life?”

I begin, walking back and forth, staring at the vast nothingness with what I hope is a wise, pondering expression, rubbing the long beard i now have while desperately trying to remember that one conversation i had with my sister.

“This is a question that many spend their entire lives asking themselves, wondering what their purpose is. But, the thing is, there is no right answer.”

I pause for dramatic effect, letting the tension build just enough before continuing.

“For some, the meaning of life is to be successful, be it it in their careers or their personal affairs. To others, it could mean leaving behind a legacy for the world to remember them by, wether this be accomplished by having a family who would carry their memory, or by becoming famous and leaving behind pieces of art for the world to remember them by when their gone.”

I let them soak up my words before continuing.

“That is the beauty of philosophical questions. They make you question things, force you to reflect upon things you have never thought about before. To me, the meaning of life is to enjoy it to the fullest. To marvel at the beauty of the natural world, to wake up and prepare yourself a delicious breakfast, to travel around the world and learn about different cultures….”

I pause, my eyes far away

“To connect. To bond with all of those around us. The meaning of life you ask me? It’s to live it to the fullest with companions to share in your joys and your sorrows, your dreams and your fears”