Burnout when I was 18: that’d be my answer, if I could honest (why not us?) if people were asking, the whole idea of Jeda. That image of me, laying on the floor of my room, yes, still the same house, in Sijangkang, staring at the moving fan – at the start of that burnout that gulped me for the next 18 months of my life. I was 18 that evening of 2010.
Life in the modern world can often feel like a whirlwind of fast-paced chaos. We are constantly bombarded with information, distractions, and responsibilities that leave us feeling overwhelmed and disconnected. In the midst of this chaos, it is easy to lose sight of the bigger picture and forget about the importance of our traditions and personal paths.
Twelve years ago, I found myself yearning for something more. I wanted to escape the noise and find a sense of grounding in my life. It was during this time that I stumbled upon the world of philosophy, and little did I know, it would become a transformative journey that would shape my perspective and help me find certainty in my own path.
Philosophy, at its core, is the study of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, and more. It encourages us to think critically, to question the status quo, and to seek meaning in our lives. For me, delving into philosophy was like entering a vast forest of wisdom and contemplation.
As I began my exploration, I quickly realized that philosophy was not just a subject to be studied in dusty textbooks. It was a living, breathing practice that could be applied to every aspect of my life. It allowed me to examine my beliefs, challenge my assumptions, and ultimately, find a deeper understanding of myself and the world around me.
One of the most profound lessons I learned through philosophy was the importance of being rooted in our traditions. In our fast-paced society, we often neglect the wisdom and knowledge that has been passed down through generations. We become so focused on progress and innovation that we forget to honor our past and the lessons it holds.
By immersing myself in the works of ancient philosophers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, I gained a newfound appreciation for the wisdom of the past. Their teachings provided a solid foundation upon which I could build my own understanding of the world. I began to see the value in connecting with the traditions of our ancestors and embracing the timeless truths they discovered.
However, philosophy is not just about blindly following the ideas of others. It is about owning our own paths with certainty. Through philosophical inquiry, I learned to question everything, including my own beliefs. I realized that true certainty comes not from blindly accepting what others tell us, but from seeking knowledge, examining evidence, and drawing our own conclusions.
Philosophy taught me that certainty does not mean having all the answers. It means having the courage to embrace the questions and the willingness to explore different perspectives. It is about finding our own truths and living in alignment with our values.
Today, as I reflect on my journey into philosophy over the past twelve years, I am grateful for the grounding it has provided in my life. It has allowed me to navigate the complexities of the modern world with a sense of purpose and clarity. It has taught me to slow down, to appreciate the beauty of the forest amidst the trees.
So, I invite you to join me on this journey. Let us rediscover the roots of our traditions, honor the wisdom of the past, and forge our own paths with certainty. Philosophy is not just an academic pursuit; it is a way of life that can bring depth, meaning, and fulfillment to our existence.
Embrace the questions, challenge the status quo, and embark on a journey of self-discovery. Together, let us find our own truths and create a world where we are rooted in our traditions and own our own paths with certainty.
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