Chapter 1: The Essence of Sorrow

The world generates sorrow. Situations evoke sorrow. The human experience is intertwined with sorrow.

Photo credit: iStock By Eric Maisel

In my decades-long exploration of Kirism—a modern philosophy of life—I've delved into psychological, philosophical, and existential themes, addressing human nature and our collective challenges. I hope this series of writings helps you grasp its essence. For a deeper dive, refer to Lighting the Way, which introduces Kirism. Feel free to reach out at [email protected].

Kirists comprehend the complexities of existence and prepare themselves for the unsettling nature of the present. They smile gently, ready to face the world's perplexities: “Okay, now! Disturb me, world! Confound me, life! Confuse me, mind! I accept you!”

Through their thoughtful reflections and preparations, Kirists come to realize the true nature of sorrow. They distinguish it from mere “depression,” seeing it instead as a melody echoing a world in grief—mourning its injustices, tragedies, and inherent nature.

Interwoven with love and compassion, sorrow transcends simple sadness. It resembles a warm embrace from a long-lost friend, evoking both joy and lamentation. Perhaps sorrow serves as a profound lesson, nudging us to remain aware and engaged with life.

The discomfort of sorrow, which we often resist, may be akin to the pain that warns us to pull our hand away from the flame. This reminder, while unwelcome, could be essential for our well-being. When holding a child's hand, the bittersweet combination of joy and pain sharpens our awareness of our blessings and impending losses. This realization can prompt us to seize the moment—baking cookies or enjoying ice cream together instead of succumbing to mundane chores.

Had we not felt that twinge of sorrow, we might have simply opted for laundry over creating cherished memories. This experience of sorrow invites love into our lives, prompting us to act with intention.

Sorrow is a multifaceted emotion, stemming from our capacity to love and our connection to life itself. It emerges from our ability to cherish, reflect on past loves, and anticipate future connections. Kirists ponder whether sorrow only visits those who still embrace life.

Yet, this doesn't imply we welcome sorrow with open arms. While it can remind us of our love for life, it can also anchor us in despair. Sorrow is not a pleasant experience, and we tend to shy away from it. Nature, however, often presents its challenges without regard for our preferences.

Imagine preparing for a joyful trip to Paris, filled with dreams of exploring and writing. Yet, as you stroll down a picturesque street, a wave of sorrow envelops you. Despite the beauty surrounding you, a sense of loneliness tugs at your heart.

What stirs this feeling? Is it the bittersweet nature of beauty itself? The street embodies everything you hoped for, yet it can also remind us of humanity's darker chapters—the suffering of those who once walked the same path, the betrayal among neighbors, and the weight of historical injustices.

You may find yourself grappling with the fleeting nature of beauty, aware that this moment is temporary and that responsibilities await back home. Regret may also seep in; reflecting on missed opportunities can taint even the most beautiful experiences.

The world generates sorrow, influenced by our circumstances and societal constructs. A comprehensive philosophy of life must address the human condition, as we are all shaped by our environments.

We confront natural disasters and societal strife—both the harsh realities of the natural world and the often toxic constructs of human society. These man-made systems can feel oppressive, stifling our spirit and exacerbating our sorrow.

Societies tend to be authoritarian, while Kirists naturally resist such constraints. Even those who choose to conform may find themselves struggling against societal norms, leading to a cycle of sorrow.

A Kirist faces three primary paths: to conform, to distance oneself, or to resist. Conformity brings its own sadness, as does alienation from society. Choosing to resist may lead to societal backlash, a painful irony that Kirists recognize.

They desire to voice their truth but understand that doing so often incurs penalties—loss of employment, legal repercussions, or social ostracism. History teaches us that challenging societal norms often comes with a steep price. Kirists grasp that sorrow is not a mental illness; it is a natural response to life’s complexities.

To delve deeper into Kirism, consider reading Lighting the Way, where these ideas are elaborated.

Chapter 2: The Interplay of Sorrow and Love

The first video features Black Label Society's "Queen of Sorrow," performed at Guitar Center. This performance captures the deep emotional resonance of sorrow intertwined with music, illustrating how art can express our innermost feelings.

The second video, Bury Your Sorrow, explores themes of grief and healing. It emphasizes the importance of acknowledging sorrow as part of the human experience, allowing us to move toward acceptance and growth.