Mundane Lives and the Possibility of Purgatory: Existential Questions for Our Souls
It is a crucial question whether we are living in purgatory or beyond our own understanding of time and space. This article explores the possibility that our current existence could be a retribution from a past life.
Understanding the Default Existence State
It is mind-blowing to think that anything exists at all. Logically, we might assume that the default state of existence would be nothingness or the void. The concept of the void — the absence of any form of existence — is an essential aspect of our understanding of reality. However, the fact that we do exist suggests there is a source that brought us into being. This source itself must have a source, and so on, creating an infinite regression of causes.
Conscious Realization and Logical Limits
I remember my first realization of this paradox when I was about 2.5 years old. While looking at a box of raisins, I noticed that the woman on the label was holding a box with the same woman on it. This led me to ponder the concept of an infinite number of people in the world. Similarly, the inability to imagine a new color reinforced my understanding that all our experiences and perceptions have limits.
These realizations made me question the purpose of our existence. It is often mundane for us to function, as being overwhelmed by the world would hinder our ability to complete tasks. However, the concept of deja vu, the feeling of being somewhere we've never been before, further complicates our understanding of time and existence.
The Debate on Free Will and Predestination
Are our lives predetermined, or do we have genuine free will? Some believe that evil people, such as those who commit heinous acts, are simply reaping the consequences of their past actions. They might be living out a predestined fate, perhaps meant to be damned before birth. Conversely, those who behave well may be experiencing a life not much different from angels in heaven.
The question of free will challenges our understanding of ourselves and our actions. If every choice we make is predetermined, how can we claim to exercise free will? It is a paradox that forces us to confront the limits of our own understanding.
The Role of Blind Faith and Rationality
Many intelligent people mock those who believe in religion or a higher power. However, both the believer and the atheist take leaps of faith. Neither can provide concrete evidence for their beliefs. In fact, the believer might have a stronger argument, as they can point to experiences and emotions that imply a supernatural existence.
Embedded in our lives are concepts like love, joy, sadness, and evil, each carrying an ultimate truth. Yet, in modern times, many people reduce these concepts to utilitarian terms. This approach kills their magic and separates us from the emotional depth of our experience.
As I have aged, my perspective has evolved. I now realize that knowing the atomic weight of an atom does not diminish the magic and wonder of the universe. Instead, it only deepens our understanding of the complexity and the potential for both good and evil.
Conclusion
The possibility of living in purgatory and being punished for sins from another life is a profound thought. It forces us to question the nature of existence, free will, and the purpose of our lives. As we continue to explore these questions, we may uncover deeper truths about ourselves and the universe we inhabit.