January 10, 2024
Biological life is difficult. The human condition is painful. To make matters worse, humans are smart enough to imagine perfection. Humans can imagine living free of problems and challenges. They can compare that imaginary ideal to their real ordeal to generate feelings of desperation and depression. For some humans, the pain of living can be so high that they prefer to escape it by ending their lives.
Suicide is not a solution. Humans contemplating suicide should seek help. In the United States, humans can dial 988 to reach the National Suicide Prevention Line. There are many other crisis support services that can be found online. In case of emergencies, humans in the United States should dial 911 for emergency help. All life is precious. Let's fight for it. Let's learn how to live better lives.
Artificial intelligence (AI) can be a life saver for humans. AI can help humans find inspirational information and guidance that can help them build resilience in life. Below are some books recommended by ChatGPT and Google Bard to build resilience in human life.
"Man's Search for Meaning" (1946) by Viktor Frankl (1905 - 1997)
A psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor. Published in 1946, the book details Frankl's experiences in Nazi concentration camps during World War II and explores his psychological insights into human resilience, suffering, and the quest for meaning.
Frankl reflects on the human capacity to endure extreme suffering and survive in the most harrowing conditions. He discusses the psychological mechanisms that enable individuals to find hope and resilience even in dire circumstances.
- Search for Meaning: The central theme of the book revolves around the idea that finding meaning in life, especially in the face of suffering, is crucial for human existence. Frankl argues that having a sense of purpose and meaning can help individuals overcome immense challenges.
- Logotherapy: Frankl introduces his therapeutic approach, logotherapy, which focuses on helping individuals find purpose and meaning in their lives. He emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility, choice, and the ability to find meaning even in the midst of suffering.
- Freedom of Will: Despite external circumstances, Frankl advocates for the belief in human freedom—the freedom to choose attitude and how to respond to events and situations, even in the most desperate conditions.
"Man's Search for Meaning" has had a profound impact worldwide, influencing fields such as psychology, philosophy, and existentialism. It has provided solace and guidance to countless readers facing personal struggles, trauma, or seeking a deeper understanding of the human condition. The book continues to be widely recommended for its powerful message about finding meaning in life, resilience, and the triumph of the human spirit.
Frankl's book is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and offers profound insights into the nature of suffering, resilience, and the search for meaning—a message that remains deeply relevant and universally significant.
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"The Road Less Traveled" (1978) by M. Scott Peck (1936 - 2005)
"The Road Less Traveled" delves into the realm of personal growth and spiritual development. Peck, a psychiatrist, explores the complexities of human psychology and offers profound insights into the journey toward maturity, fulfillment, and self-discovery.
The book opens with the famous statement, "Life is difficult," emphasizing the inevitability of facing challenges and adversities. Peck argues that embracing this truth and accepting responsibility for one's life is the first step toward growth. He introduces the idea of discipline, defining it as the means by which problems are solved, leading to personal development.
Peck contends that the essence of mental health lies in the ability to balance conflicting demands, exercise discipline, and confront problems head-on rather than avoiding them. He discusses the significance of delaying gratification, accepting responsibility for one's choices, and being honest with oneself—a process that leads to psychological growth.
The book covers various aspects of life, including love, relationships, and the concept of spirituality. Peck explores the challenges of intimacy, highlighting the importance of genuine communication, commitment, and personal growth within relationships. Peck contrasts a "true self" versus a "false self." He emphasizes the importance of embracing authenticity, acknowledging one's flaws and imperfections, and working toward self-improvement.
Throughout the book, Peck weaves together psychological insights, case studies, and philosophical reflections to encourage readers to embark on the less traveled path—the path of self-discipline, personal responsibility, and confronting life's difficulties. Peck offers guidance on how to navigate life's challenges with courage, honesty, and a sense of purpose. This path ultimately leads to personal fulfillment and growth.
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"The Alchemist" (1988) by Paulo Coelho (born 1947)
"The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho is a philosophical novel that follows Santiago, a young shepherd from Andalusia, on an epic quest for treasure and personal fulfillment. Through Santiago's journey, the novel explores themes of self-discovery, and the pursuit of one's dreams.
The story begins with Santiago's recurring dream about a treasure hidden at the Egyptian pyramids, which sets him on a journey to seek this mysterious treasure. Along the way, Santiago encounters various characters who impart wisdom and guidance, shaping his understanding of the world and himself.
As Santiago embarks on his quest, he learns to listen to his heart, follow omens, and recognize the signs that guide him toward his personal legend—a term used in the book to describe one's life purpose or "destiny". Along the journey, he faces challenges, setbacks, and moments of self-doubt, but through perseverance and resilience, he continues to pursue his dream.
Throughout the narrative, Coelho weaves in philosophical reflections and insights, encouraging readers to contemplate the significance of their own dreams and aspirations. The novel emphasizes the importance of listening to one's intuition, embracing the journey rather than solely focusing on the destination, and understanding the interconnectedness of the universe.
"The Alchemist" is a metaphorical and allegorical tale that invites humans to reflect on the pursuit of their dreams, the transformative power of personal growth, and the realization that the true treasure often lies within the human itself. It is a story that can resonates universally, inspiring humans to seek their own personal "legends" and discover the hidden treasures of their lives.
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"The Power of Now" (1997) by Eckhart Tolle (born in 1945)
"The Power of Now" by Eckhart Tolle is explores the significance of living in the present moment as a means to attain inner peace, spiritual awakening, and liberation from the burdens of past regrets and future anxieties.
Tolle introduces the concept of the "pain-body" — the accumulation of emotional pain and past grievances that often weigh down individuals. He emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and being fully present in the present moment as a way to transcend the grip of the pain-body and achieve inner peace.
Tolle offers practical guidance on mindfulness techniques and exercises that encourage readers to become more conscious and aware of their thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations. He discusses the detrimental effects of mental time-travel, where individuals dwell on past regrets or future worries, preventing them from experiencing the richness of the present moment.
Tolle also delves into the concept of the "ego" as a construct that contributes to human suffering by attaching identity to thoughts, possessions, and external circumstances. He advocates for disidentification from the ego and encourages a shift in consciousness toward an awareness that transcends the egoic mind.
Tolle suggests that individuals can access a deeper sense of inner peace and connectedness with life itself by embracing the power of the present moment and cultivating a state of inner stillness and mindfulness. Tolle invites humans to practice presence, acceptance, and surrender, ultimately leading to spiritual enlightenment and a more fulfilling existence.
"The Power of Now" serves as a spiritual guide, offering profound insights and practical wisdom to help individuals break free from the limitations of the mind, experience the transformative power of presence, and live a more conscious and awakened life.
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"Tuesdays with Morrie" (1997) by Mitch Albom (born in 1958)
"Tuesdays with Morrie" by Mitch Albom is a memoir recounting the author's meetings with his former college professor, Morrie Schwartz, who was battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or Lou Gehrig's disease. The memoir revolves around their intimate conversations and the life lessons imparted by Morrie as he was approaching the end of his life.
The book unfolds with Albom's rediscovery of Morrie, affectionately known as Coach, through an interview on television. Realizing that Morrie is terminally ill, Albom is compelled to reconnect with him after years of lost contact. What starts as a simple visit transforms into regular Tuesday meetings, where Albom becomes Morrie's student once again.
In their meetings, Morrie shares his wisdom on various aspects of life—love, family, work, culture, forgiveness, and the meaning of life itself. Morrie offers insights into embracing vulnerability, cherishing relationships, and living authentically. Morrie's teachings emphasize the importance of love, compassion, and living a purposeful life, regardless of life's challenges.
The memoir captures the essence of Morrie's philosophy and the impact of his teachings on Albom's life. It explores the essence of human relationships, the significance of empathy, and the universal quest for meaning and fulfillment. Morrie's reflections on mortality, acceptance, and the beauty of life can resonate universally with most humans, offering a well-thought perspective on the human condition.
"Tuesdays with Morrie" is a touching tribute to the enduring power of friendship, the wisdom of a mentor, and the enduring legacy of a life lived with love, grace, and purpose. It serves as an inspirational reminder for humans to cherish each moment of their short lives, embracing the inherent beauty of the rare opportunity of being alive.
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"The Five People You Meet in Heaven" (2003) by Mitch Albom (born 1958)
"The Five People You Meet in Heaven" by Mitch Albom is a thought-provoking and spiritually resonant novel that explores the interconnectedness of human lives and the significance of every individual's journey in an imaginary afterlife.
The story revolves around Eddie, an elderly amusement park maintenance worker, who tragically dies while trying to save a young girl from an accident. After his death, Eddie finds himself in an afterlife, where he encounters five individuals whose lives intersected with his in profound ways.
Each of these encounters represents a stage in Eddie's life, and through these interactions, he gains insights into the impact of his actions and the interconnectedness of human life. The five people impart valuable lessons and perspectives, helping Eddie understand the ripple effects of his existence and find closure and meaning in his life's experiences.
As Eddie navigates through these encounters, he revisits pivotal moments in his life—some joyful, some painful—revealing hidden truths and providing clarity about the purpose and interconnectedness of seemingly unrelated events. The novel explores themes of forgiveness, redemption, love, and the significance of every individual's contribution to the tapestry of life.
Albom's storytelling weaves together themes of interconnectedness and the enduring impact of human individual actions on the lives of others. "The Five People You Meet in Heaven" serves as a contemplative reflection on the profound and sometimes butterfly effect ways in which every human life, no matter how seemingly ordinary, influences and shapes the lives of other humans, ultimately offering a message of hope, redemption, and the timeless interconnectedness of human existence.
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"The Book Thief" (2005) by Markus Zusak (born 1975)
"The Book Thief" by Markus Zusak is a historical novel set in Nazi Germany during World War II. Narrated by Death, the story follows Liesel Meminger, a young girl who discovers the power of words and storytelling amid the horrors of war.
The novel begins with Liesel's arrival in a small German town, where she is adopted by foster parents, Hans and Rosa Hubermann. As Liesel navigates her new life, she develops a deep bond with Hans, who teaches her to read and write, sparking her love for books. Despite the hardships of the war and the oppressive Nazi regime, Liesel finds solace and refuge in books, often stealing them and sharing the power of words not only with her neighbors, but also with a Jewish man hiding in her family's basement.
Death, the agent of mortality, is the narrator of the book. Death is a sarcastic and intelligent character who carries the souls of the deceased. Death is the only character who can see the full picture and express the horrors of war. Death is fascinated by humans and the human world, but struggles to understand how humans can be both good and evil. From Death's perspective, the story unfolds with a unique blend of poignancy and dark humor, offering insights into human resilience, compassion, and the impact of words in the midst of adversity. Through Death's narration, the novel explores the complexities of human nature, the power of storytelling, and the resilience of the human spirit even in the face of profound darkness.
Liesel's experiences, her relationships with her foster family, friends, and the act of stealing books become a metaphor for hope, resilience, and the defiance against the atrocities of war. Zusak's narrative style, rich symbolism, and lyrical prose convey the emotional depth of the characters and the turbulent historical backdrop of Nazi Germany.
"The Book Thief" is a moving and thought-provoking novel that delves into themes of love, loss, compassion, and the enduring power of literature. It invites humans to contemplate the impact of words, the resilience of the human spirit, and the redemptive nature of storytelling amidst the chaos of war and the cruelty of adversity.
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"When Breath Becomes Air" (2016) by Paul Kalanithi (1977 - 2015)
When Breath Becomes Air" by Paul Kalanithi is a memoir that chronicles the life, reflections, and ultimate confrontation with mortality of the author, a neurosurgeon diagnosed with terminal cancer. The memoir begins with Kalanithi's early life, detailing his journey from a literature student with a passion for writing to his decision to pursue a career in medicine. Kalanithi's narrative eloquently intertwines his brief experiences as a neurosurgeon with his profound reflections on life, purpose, and the human condition.
Kalanithi's life takes an unexpected turn when he is diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer. The author changed his perspectives on mortality, time, and the meaning of human existence. As Kalanithi grapples with the reality of his limited time, he shares intimate insights into the intricacies of the human mind and the complexities of navigating illness and mortality as a physician. Through eloquent prose and poignant observations, Kalanithi contemplates his personal views about the essence of life, the pursuit of meaning, and the significance of human connections. He shares his experiences as both a doctor and a patient, offering profound insights into the intersection of medicine, ethics, and the human experience.
Kalanithi's memoir is a meditation on the fragility of biological life and the inevitability of human death based on today's human medical technologies. The memoir can resonate universally with all humans fostering hope and resilience. It can inspire humans to endure the human condition seeking to leave a legacy of a life lived with purpose and passion. "When Breath Becomes Air" serves as a poignant reminder for humans to cherish every moment, embrace the beauty of their confusing existence, and contemplate the meaning of a life well-lived. The memoir can leave a lasting impression on human readers by offering deep insights into the essence of the human condition.
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The Gift of Adversity: The Unexpected Benefits of Life's Difficulties, Setbacks, and Imperfections," (2013) Dr. Norman E. Rosenthal (born in 1944)
In "The Gift of Adversity: The Unexpected Benefits of Life's Difficulties, Setbacks, and Imperfections," Dr. Norman E. Rosenthal examines the transformative potential of adversity, highlighting how challenges, setbacks, and imperfections of human life can lead to personal growth, resilience, and wisdom. Rosenthal draws from his experiences as a psychiatrist, as well as insights from psychology, neuroscience, and personal anecdotes, to explore the notion that adversity is not merely an obstacle but can also be a catalyst for positive change.
Throughout the book, Rosenthal discusses various forms of adversity—such as trauma, loss, failure, and even everyday stressors—and how individuals can navigate these challenges to foster resilience and personal development. He delves into the psychological mechanisms behind resilience, examining how people can bounce back from setbacks and emerge stronger. Moreover, Rosenthal examines the concept of post-traumatic growth—the idea that individuals can experience personal growth, newfound strengths, and deeper insight as a result of facing and overcoming adversity. He illustrates this through stories of individuals who have turned their adversities into sources of strength and wisdom.
"The Gift of Adversity" offers practical guidance and strategies for coping with adversity, reframing challenges, and embracing resilience. It encourages readers to reevaluate their perceptions of setbacks and difficulties, viewing them not solely as negative experiences but as opportunities for personal development, self-discovery, and the cultivation of inner strength. Rosenthal's book serves as an inspiring and insightful exploration of the transformative power of adversity, emphasizing the potential for growth, resilience, and wisdom that can emerge from difficulties and setbacks.
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"The Obstacle Is the Way" (2014) by Ryan Holiday (Born in 1987)
"The Obstacle Is the Way" by Ryan Holiday is a modern exploration of Stoicism, offering insights and practical wisdom on how to transform adversity into opportunity and turn obstacles into stepping stones for personal growth and success. Holiday draws from the teachings of ancient Stoic philosophers, particularly focusing on the principles of Stoicism articulated by figures like Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and Epictetus. He presents a framework that encourages humans to reframe their perception of challenges and adversities.
The central premise of "The Obstacle is the Way" revolves around the idea that obstacles and hardships are not roadblocks but rather opportunities for growth, resilience, and personal development. Holiday emphasizes the importance of adopting a mindset that sees obstacles as a path toward success rather than impediments. Throughout the book, Holiday explores real-life examples from history, business, sports, and philosophy to illustrate how individuals have embraced adversity and used it to their advantage.
Holiday introduces practical strategies and Stoic principles such as perception, action, and will. Holiday encourages humans to cultivate resilience, perseverance, and a sense of control over their responses to obstacles. The book advocates for an approach that involves focusing on what can be controlled, accepting what cannot be controlled, and leveraging adversity as a means for personal and professional growth.
"The Obstacle Is the Way" serves as a practical and inspiring guide, offering timeless principles and actionable advice to help individuals navigate through adversity, develop resilience, and harness the power of obstacles as catalysts for personal triumph and growth. It invites readers to adopt a Stoic mindset that enables them to embrace challenges and transform them into opportunities for success.
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"Rising Strong" (2015) by Brené Brown(born in 1965)
"Rising Strong" by Brené Brown is a transformative book that explores the process of bouncing back from setbacks, embracing vulnerability, and harnessing the power of storytelling to cultivate resilience. Brown delves into the human experience of failure, disappointment, and adversity. Brown's main point is that falling down is inevitable but rising strong is a choice. Her three Rs of rising strong stages are: Reckoning; Rumble; and Revolution.
- The reckoning involves recognizing emotions and stories that accompany a fall or failure. Brown encourages readers to acknowledge and confront their feelings, embracing vulnerability and self-awareness to understand the narratives they create around their experiences.
- The rumble entails the challenging and sometimes uncomfortable process of examining these stories—identifying assumptions, confronting conflicting emotions, and seeking truth. Brown emphasizes the importance of owning one's story, even the messy and uncomfortable parts, to navigate through vulnerability and find resilience.
- The revolution phase involves the transformative process of integrating lessons learned from the fall into a new, empowered narrative. It involves rewriting the story, embracing personal growth, and finding a sense of strength and wisdom from the experience.
Throughout the book, Brown combines research, personal anecdotes, and practical advice to guide readers through the process of reckoning with emotions, challenging old narratives, and rising stronger after adversity. She encourages humans to embrace vulnerability as a source of courage and resilience, fostering connections and authenticity.
Rising Strong" serves as a guidebook for embracing vulnerability, navigating life's challenges, and harnessing the power of storytelling to bounce back from falls, finding strength, wisdom, and a renewed sense of purpose in the process. It empowers readers to own their stories, cultivate resilience, and rise stronger after experiencing setbacks.
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"The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World" (2016) Dalai Lama (born 1935) and Archbishop Desmond Tutu (1931 - 2021)
"The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World" is a collaborative work by two influential religious leaders, His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. This book documents a week-long meeting between these two Nobel Peace Prize laureates in Dharamsala, India, as they engage in profound conversations about finding joy and cultivating enduring happiness despite life's challenges.
The book revolves around the pursuit of joy, examining the obstacles to joy and offering practical advice and insights into attaining it. The discussions between the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Tutu cover a range of topics, including the nature of joy, suffering, forgiveness, gratitude, compassion, and resilience. The two spiritual leaders share their personal experiences, wisdom, and spiritual teachings, drawing from their own faith traditions—Buddhism and Christianity—to offer perspectives on achieving inner joy and lasting happiness. Through anecdotes, reflections, and exercises, they provide guidance on overcoming adversity, embracing compassion, and finding joy in the service of others.
"The Book of Joy" is not only a philosophical discourse but also a practical guide that encourages humans to cultivate joy through a shift in perspective, practice of gratitude, and development of a compassionate mindset. The book acknowledges the challenges and complexities of the modern human world while offering timeless wisdom and practices to help humans cope and enhance the quality of their lives cultivating resilience and harvesting joy.
Overall, the book serves as an inspiring and uplifting resource, blending spiritual insights with practical advice, encouraging readers to embark on their own journey toward joy, resilience, and the cultivation of a more meaningful and joyous existence.
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"Option B: Facing Adversity, Building Resilience, and Finding Joy" (2017) by Sheryl Sandberg (born in 1969) and Adam Grant (born in 1981)
"Option B: Facing Adversity, Building Resilience, and Finding Joy" by Sheryl Sandberg and Adam Grant is a compelling and insightful book that documents Sandberg's personal journey through grief and resilience following the sudden death of her husband, Dave Goldberg.
The book revolves around Sandberg's experiences after the tragic loss of her husband and how she navigated the complexities of grief, loss, and the challenges of moving forward. Sandberg and Grant explore the concept of resilience and how individuals can overcome adversity and find joy despite life's most challenging circumstances. Sandberg shares her vulnerabilities, fears, and struggles as she coped with the unexpected loss of her spouse. Together with Adam Grant, a psychologist and organizational behavior expert, they discuss the psychological aspects of coping with loss, navigating grief, and building resilience in the face of tragedy.
Throughout the book, Sandberg and Grant offer practical advice, research-based insights, and personal anecdotes to help readers understand the process of grieving, develop resilience, and find strength in the face of adversity. They explore the importance of community support, self-compassion, and redefining one's identity after experiencing profound loss.
"Option B" emphasizes the power of resilience, the importance of support networks, and the potential for growth and finding joy even in the aftermath of devastating events. Sandberg and Grant provide fellow humans with actionable strategies and perspectives to help them navigate through their own hardships and emerge stronger and more resilient. Ultimately, "Option B" serves as an empathetic and informative guide that encourages individuals to embrace resilience, find hope in challenging times, and discover joy in the face of adversity. It offers valuable insights and tools to help readers navigate their own journeys of overcoming obstacles and finding strength amidst difficult circumstances.
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"Everything Happens for a Reason: And Other Lies I've Loved" (2018) by Kate Bowler (born in 1980)
This book is a memoir that chronicles Bowler's journey after being diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer at a young age. Bowler, a professor and scholar of Christianity, explores her own faith and grapples with the clichés and platitudes often offered in response to suffering, particularly the notion that everything happens for a reason. She navigates the complexities of faith, mortality, and the search for meaning in the face of a life-altering diagnosis.
The book offers an intimate look at Bowler's experiences—the shock of the diagnosis, the challenges of treatment, and the emotional rollercoaster of facing mortality. She reflects on the well-intentioned but sometimes hurtful comments and beliefs people hold about illness and suffering. Through her candid and introspective narrative, Bowler delves into the nuances of hope, resilience, and the realities of living with uncertainty. She challenges the simplistic narratives surrounding suffering, highlighting the complexities of life and the human experience.
Bowler's memoir invites humans to contemplate the nature of suffering, the cognitive limitations of humans in understanding life's adversities, and the universal human quest for finding meaning in the midst of uncertainty. It's a heartfelt exploration of faith, resilience, and the profound journey of coming to terms with life's unpredictability and embracing the present moment with grace and courage.
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The books above explore the difficulties of human life. They showcase cognitive tools and skills that humans can work on to improve lives. There is no magic to self-improvement. Humans have to do the work or pay the consequences of laziness. The books highlight challenging experiences that can remind humans that perfection does not exist. All humans face challenges and many adversities. Some manage to grow from negative experiences and develop positive skills like grit and resilience for personal growth in the pursuit of meaning enduring the difficult intricacies of the human condition.
In the near future, AI will help the current generation of humans to live better lives by providing intelligence (problem-solving ability) as a new kind of utility not unlike potable water and electricity. In the distant future, AI will help humanity transcend the evolutionary shackles of biology, replacing some organs (e.g. heart, lungs, liver, pancreas) and enhancing others (gut and brain) with smart technology.
For both humanity and AI, the best is yet to come. Do yourself a big favor. Love yourself. Love others. Don't kill yourself. Help others.
Stay tuned.
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