There are moments, even days, in my life when nothing seems to make sense. I feel tired and lost. Lonely. Emotionally exhausted. I think many of you might have experienced the same. In those moments, I usually look for a distraction. And one such distraction, if one can say so, for me has always been reading! Though many would disagree that reading is a distraction.
Recently, I read in depth about Logotherapy, though I had known the concept for many years. As many of you know, it was developed by Viktor Frankl, a psychiatrist who survived the horrors of the Nazi concentration camps. His theory is based on his observations in these camps. He found that even when bound by unimaginable pain, if you have one reason to live, you are likely to survive effortlessly. This idea struck a deep chord within me.
Some readings change your entire way of thinking. I now understand that if your life has meaning, you are likely to cope better with failure, loss or hardship. It brings you immense happiness, and you don’t have to chase it. Reason to live, the meaning of life, and happiness are all interconnected.
The question is, how can we find meaning in life? Meaning can be found in numerous ways, from work and creativity to service, even in the courage to face another day! It is true that no one or nothing can promise a perfect life. But reading good texts certainly helps you understand that every person has a purpose. Every life has value, and we can find meaning in so many little things. Even a smile or a conversation can bring that meaning.
The colleges are reopening tomorrow after the summer holidays. I am sure I am not stepping into another academic year carrying just academic responsibilities. Like many, I am also aware of the tiredness, stress, and quiet exhaustion that work often brings into our lives. Concepts like Logotherapy remind us that peace comes when we stay connected to the deeper meaning of our duties and work, rather than getting lost in unnecessary negativity and chaos around us.
Wishing all teachers a successful new academic year. May your year be filled with meaningful moments and a sense of purpose
-ash 31/5/26
Dr Aswathy Aravindakshan is a teacher, bilingual writer and artist with over two decades of experience in teaching English language and literature. She currently serves as Assistant Professor of English at NSS College for Women, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India. Her blog, ashlit.in brings together academic resources, creative writing in Malayalam and English, and visual art. The platform features lecture notes, study materials, poems, reflections, short prose, and a curated collection of her paintings. Through this space, she seeks to foster learning, creativity, and meaningful engagement with literature and the arts.
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