Human being and being human

T he questions surrounding existence have preoccupied humankind for millennia. The inquiry into creation, creator, meaning, purpose, past, present and future formed the pivot of contemplation and human cognition. Of these, an interesting question has been whether there is a common and ultimate destiny for humans. Is there a fate that humans and societies share, irrespective of time and space? The most probable answer is in negation, for life offers no single universally applied account of human existence.

This is manifested in the different means and ends suggested by different disciplines, philosophies and traditions, and the independent paths treaded by different individuals and societies at different times. Does humanity have an ultimate destination? Yes, it’s death. But is there anything worth pursuing for humans before kicking the bucket? The answer is somehow enigmatic and debatable. As a salient alchemist, the unfolding cascades of life have great transformational potential for its wayfarers. The journey of life holds a great potential of carving the best out of humans by transforming human being into being human.

A successful journey is one that fares better both for the commuter and the surrounding. That is, if a universal purpose for humans ought to be, that is a productive individual and social transformation. That life is a journey between human being and being human is a natural reality too hard to defy. It suggests that our lives are a constant process of moving back and forth between two states: human being and being human. The term ‘human being’ describes the physical nature of existence. It refers to the inherent and animalistic human nature, which is focused on the biological nature, needs, senses, emotions, desires and instincts. It revolves around individualism, self-preservation and survival.

As human beings, we are born, grow, experience the attributes of being alive, feel pleasure and pain, age and finally die. A human being is a mere physical entity with a temporal presence on the face of the Earth. A natural phenomenon without a conscious stake, the birth of a human being is by incident or a tiny part of a divinely directed scheme. While ‘being human’ is an elevated concept, then merely physical existence. It connotes an exalted and elevated state of consciousness and focuses on empathy, collectivism and affection. It epitomises transcendentalism, defies selfish desires and relates to the animate beings around in a more meaningful and empathetic manner. It is, therefore, a lasting and eternal percept. It also means realising inherent potential, creating meaning, living a life of purpose and making a positive mark in society.

However, this is hardly something we receive out of nowhere; being human warrants a conscious effort, introspection and reflection. First, we must have a change-seeking and growth mindset that would help in realising the inherent potential necessary for overpowering fear and fallacy. Second, identifying aptitude and defining the same would afford us a definite purpose in life. However, for that, we would need to diagnose our limitations and transform them into strengths through dedicated efforts and by rising above what we feel comfortable in. Third, we need to live in the moment and appreciate the small things around us. This process would prepare us to effectively handle the great things and achievements we work for. Fourth, practising humility assigns a new dimension to life.

It helps us accept who we are and what we do. Also, a humble person radiates positive energy and helps build a better society. Fifth, embracing with gratitude the challenges of life builds the strength and resilience necessary for smooth navigation of the forthcoming tumults of life. Persisting with patience through failures, setbacks and hurdles helps us master life. Last but not least, embracing the lofty ideals of honesty, integrity, self-accountability, gratitude, generosity, respectfulness, sincerity, compassion, altruism and humanity transforms us from human beings to being human and helps us leave our mark in the glorious realms of eternity