Underneath Our Feet no.4

The hyperawareness of existence and death is a fundamental part of being human. This distinguishes humans from other species due to our unique ability to reflect on the self, contemplate the future, and seek meaning and purpose of our lives as a way to cope with the knowledge of mortality. The search for meaning profoundly influences our emotions, thoughts, and actions, serving as a cornerstone for various human cultural, philosophical, and religious practices. I t is a uniquely human pursuit that transcends mere survival, touching on the essence of what it means to be human. It's a source of both existential angst and profound growth, pushing individuals to confront the most fundamental questions of life and to seek answers that provide comfort, meaning, and direction.

In the face of our finite time on Earth, we embark on a fervent journey toward accomplishment, driven by an innate desire to leave a mark on the world. This cognizance of life’s finitude motivates us to seek out significance and purpose, igniting our ambitions. Striving to exert some degree of control over life's inherent unpredictability, we painstakingly orchestrate every facet of our existence, from the monumental to the trivial.

The phrase “Above and Beyond Us” encapsulates humility and acknowledgment of our limitations, recognizing that there exist forces, principles, or challenges that surpass our present understanding or ability to control.

This acknowledgment does not signify surrender but rather an acceptance of the immense complexity and vastness of the universe we dwell in, encouraging us to explore, ponder, and transcend beyond the limits we once thought defined us.