The Question of Meaning
Our lives are defined by the quest for meaning. The ability to name our particular purpose -our unique significance as individuals, determines not only the quality of our lives but – in dangerous times – our very survival. That is because the quest for meaning is our most formidable antidote against despair.
Despair minus meaning equals suffering, as Viktor Frankl famously wrote. Without meaning, the hardships we all endure can render us bitter, lost, and afraid. Fortunately, it is possible to find meaning in any situation, as Frankl and other survivors have learned. That is what separates people able to flourish in adversity from others incapable of locating the strength to overcome their obstacles.
After 30 years on a spiritual path, and equally long as a survivor, Mark has extensive experience in locating, strengthening, and activating personal purpose in the midst of major life transitions. This class will take you on a journey into the question of personal meaning. What gives you strength, purpose, clarity, and determination? How do you choose what really matters? What makes you feel most authentic and alive?
Students will learn:
• The impact of personal meaning on your current life
• The relationship(s) between meaning and love
• The connection of meaning to creativity
• The link(s) between meaning and spiritual awakening
• How authentic meaning contradicts cultural training
• Precisely how meaning strengthens us in times of adversity
Go to the Booking & Contact page to contact Mark about teaching this class.
Testimonials
“Mark Matousek’s writing instruction is transformative. His classes will change the
ways in which you examine your life, and how you think about yourself as a writer. He
approaches your work with a deep sense of empathy, allowing him to help you tell your
story in your voice. Mark’s insight, imagination, and precise instruction will push your
writing in incredible directions, both creatively and technically. Mark not only recognized
that I had the makings of a book when I brought him my idea for Ten Ways to Change
the World in Your Twenties, but his mentorship at every step of the process empowered
me to bring the project to fruition. No matter what stage of the process you are at, time
spent with Mark will yield extraordinary results.”
-Libuse Binder, author of Ten Ways to Change the World in Your Twenties
“When you spend your days using words to craft pithy headlines for clients, creating
personal writing that comes from the heart is unfamiliar territory. Mark’s unique blend of
compassion and confrontation creates a space where anybody who has a story to share
can find a safe place to start.”
-Maria Longo, freelance writer
