Optimism helps us make sense of the senseless sufferings
Man can always determine his nature in the face of any situation because there exists no condition that can completely rid him of
“freedom.” Thus, even in a neurotic state, the patient has a residue of freedom to decide to be cured or stay in this condition.
⚡️Our thoughts reflected in our bodily reactions profoundy influence us.
We all have the power to choose our responses even in the face of extreme difficulties. A person can seek refuge in love or a higher appreciation for the life he once had before the suffering. The author believes that one possesses pan-determinism — no matter what, one can rise to challenge the situation and not be trodden down by it.
This approach to life is known as “tragic optimism” — believing that there is some good in seemingly hopeless situations.
In logotherapy, tragic optimism seeks to:
- Turn suffering into a human achievement.
- Use guilt to better oneself.
- Draw incentive from life’s transitory nature.
This state can’t be forced (hyper intention) since we need a reason to feel emotions.
⚡️Tragic optimism is the search for meaning during hard times. And it can lead to a positive outcome and create a deeper sense of purpose in people.
One can learn to be tragically optimistic if one can tell oneself to find the greater meaning in one’s suffering, not give up, or turn to immediate pleasure — drugs, sex, and even crime. The logotherapist must help a patient find their remaining part and reinvigorate it, replacing the void that eats away the soul.
Thank you so much for bringing all of these phenomenal lessons to life for me! It’s beyond incredible that we were able to get this once-in-a-lifetime study of sorts from a true psychoanalyst through one of the most tragic events in human history, proving a peak at what there was to be GAINED from all of it. Love the blog Ben!