The Benefit of Living With No Purpose

The Benefit of Living With No Purpose - Alan Watts

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Күн бұрын

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Alan Wilson Watts (6 January 1915 - 16 November 1973) was a well-known British philosopher, writer and speaker, best known for his interpretation of Eastern philosophy for Western audiences. He left behind more than 25 books and an audio library of nearly 400 talks, which are still in great demand.
This audio is from "Man and Nature" Part 2 by Alan Watts
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Пікірлер: 2 600

@betterchapter Жыл бұрын

The meaning of life is just to be alive. It is so plain and so obvious and so simple. And yet, everybody rushes around in a great panic as if it were necessary to achieve something beyond themselves

@jennarentz Жыл бұрын

Love you ❤️

@PS-wz9fc Жыл бұрын

And die like everybody else.. Nothing lost nothing gained..

@anonymous-jp7bo Жыл бұрын

Such a old quote but it still reaches people like never before🥰

@MrRanch-fc2pe Жыл бұрын

What about achieving great success vs suffering? I’m Genuinely asking

@oO2Pro4UOo Жыл бұрын

Thats it. The meaning of life is to realise what our true source is. We are infinite, pure conciouusness but we dont know anything else. So we made up this universe and this world to experience what it means to be infinite just become aware of our infinity

@sonnyroy497 Жыл бұрын

I have no ambition, never have. I get up every day and do what needs to be done, do the best I can, and make a sincere effort to do no harm. To some people I'm a failure, to some I'm wise. Maybe I'm a wise failure. Just enjoy your life, and ignore the judgers. ✝️🌹✝️🌹✝️🌹✝️🌹✝️🌹✝️

@JohnCavendish-ql4jc 4 ай бұрын

You're right. Embrace your Loserness.

@progresssivefaith1661 4 ай бұрын

@@JohnCavendish-ql4jcΕίσαι μαλάκας .

@brand0n1us91 3 ай бұрын

I've been the same way my entire life. Any "ambitions" I might've had were for the sake of my family's expectations, or out of fear of ending up on the streets. It's hard enough just paying bills and surviving, let alone aspiring to some grandiose and ultimately pointless goal.

@user-wl8sv5lw7c 3 ай бұрын

With that logic might as well just be homeless, no point in living this life and not being able to experience the beautiful things that come when you achieve higher goals, but you will never see such blessings as you became content with your current reality.

@progresssivefaith1661 3 ай бұрын

@@user-wl8sv5lw7c Τίποτα από όσα κάνει ο άνθρωπος δεν εχει σημασία,αφού θα καταλήξει στον τάφο.

@ThePossumone Жыл бұрын

Of course he is NOT THE FIRST to say this, but he puts it so well. “Life is not a problem to be solved, but a reality to be experienced.” ― Soren Kierkegaard

@ramushsteinuts9318 8 ай бұрын

BLA BLA BLA bla

@GlynTaylor 7 ай бұрын

While evil exists in this world, there are problems to be solved. It is not morally right to turn a blind eye to that suffering just because you are lucky enough to have a safe environment

@JeppeBeier 6 ай бұрын

@@GlynTaylor No one here is talking about turning a blind eye to any suffering. The solution to someone else's suffering just isn't to make you suffer yourself. You can help others without suffering. The philosophy isn't that you should stop working altogether. It's that you should flip your perspective so that you don't live to work, but rather work to live.

@GlynTaylor 6 ай бұрын

@@JeppeBeier You can never avoid suffering in life. Turing a blind eye is simply delusion. You said yourself though that you believe in work, so you aren't one of those people who turn a blind eye. Seeing the beauty in life can be done while also living a life of purpose and receiving the reward of fulfilment. We should all do everything in our power to help those around us, while also living the most enjoyable life possible. It's balance, I think we agree

@arihanggara6662 6 ай бұрын

What do u think about suicide? Is it like betrayel of life?

@DMTEntity88 Жыл бұрын

So basically do what you can with the limited time you have on this earth, or don’t do anything it doesn’t matter either way, as long as you are happy inside and with yourself that’s all that matters!! God bless you all I hope you all live a long and happy life just don’t take your life for granted and don’t dwell on things that don’t need to be dwelled on!!

@EMan-cu5zo Жыл бұрын

Exactly. I used to get so mad at whatever work I was doing because I felt everyone else was never pulling their weight. I finally realized to not worry about whatever they do just to do me. I usually work by myself now and I actually enjoy to work hard. I don’t worry about how much my colleagues do because I honestly don’t care. I just do what I do and let other’s chase them around. They wanted to promote me to management and I said no thanks. The last thing I want to do is to be constantly chasing people around to make sure they do what they are supposed to be doing. Worked in a managerial position for years. Not for me. They can keep the extra money.

@CMoore8539 4 ай бұрын

@@EMan-cu5zoJust keep doing You. They will see your excellence and they’ll give you raises as you want. I’m the same way.

@jucyjay8398 3 ай бұрын

I'm trying to do that every day

@saltycreole2673 Жыл бұрын

The last time I lost purpose in life, I almost drank myself to death. I decided to manufacture my purpose, my reason for living. My reason for living is to help others without benefit to me. I refuse to let anyone else provide my purpose in life. Ironically, or magically if you will, I prosper. I live well. I am happy and content, not always satisfied, but happy.

@khester7397 Жыл бұрын

Do you honestly believe you invented that purpose? Its kind of a classic.

@OurFreeSociety Жыл бұрын

@@khester7397 - did you have to put him down. It has nothing to do with whether he invented it or not, it has to do with the fact that he REALIZED it.

@OurFreeSociety Жыл бұрын

Good for you. I do the same thing, but I'm not happy like you are, but it is my life's purpose & always has been. Hugs

@saltycreole2673 Жыл бұрын

@@OurFreeSociety Fact is, I said "manufacture" not invent. You are correct. I recognized a need to keep myself viable. KZfaq trolls like to parse and misdirect. Hardly helpful at all.

@saltycreole2673 Жыл бұрын

@@OurFreeSociety Back at ya'.

@chloescat Жыл бұрын

I just realized, I've been living my life the right way all along. A big kid with no plan to be anything other than one who enjoys experiencing what makes me happy and to be with those who I love. 🙂❤️

@davidforshaw4998 Жыл бұрын

👍 Absolutely!

@DoobieGod Жыл бұрын

The world we have created isn’t so simple :(

@gellyjanedayak5320 Жыл бұрын

😌

@chloescat Жыл бұрын

then change it. 😉

@WALDENSOFTWARE Жыл бұрын

The right way is what's right for you. It's not a one size fits all.

@davidmandelstamm8725 Жыл бұрын

Somehow, I feel much better after listening to the wisdom of Alan Watts. Elegant simplicity! I'm a [so-called] senior who takes a long walk daily, about four miles or more. The best walks are along the forested rail trail here in North Mississippi, but they can be anywhere. I wave at everybody when I'm walking through a neighborhood, but somehow, I prefer the natural wooded areas and the surprises they yield... an interesting plant, some deer, turtles, maybe even wild turkey. The animals are usually skittish, probably for sound reasons. I'm enjoying my "frugal retirement"!

@WatchfulHunter Жыл бұрын

Yep. In the wild you are an apex predator. Everything is food.

@ishikawa1338 Жыл бұрын

No one cares

@thestsconsulting8968 Жыл бұрын

i know how u feel unc

@mudshrooze Жыл бұрын

Not wisdom

@Jhawk_2k Жыл бұрын

Same concept for me cycling. I might look serious because of the pain I'm enduring, but I always wave to fellow cyclists (and other humans if they are looking at me) and will always strike up quick conversations at stoplights, trails, etc. Just out here living life

@alexkiarie4972 Жыл бұрын

I love the fact that subconsciously I was already trying to deprogram myself to stop constantly questioning the end goal of each and every thing I do and just take the playful, purposeless approach. It really restored balance to my life, but getting to hear that wisdom expounded on in the usual comical Alan Watts style is just refreshing. Thanks. : )

@highliving-animatedvideos5831 Жыл бұрын

Who else finds Alan Watts voice SO relaxing? ❤️🚀🌙

@mr.bnatural3700 Жыл бұрын

So relaxing & rambling I had no idea what he said.

@kylewood9078 Жыл бұрын

Probably everyone

@Axiomatic75 Жыл бұрын

His lectures are my go to almost every night.

@Run3Po420 Жыл бұрын

I watched all of his videos that I can find because of that and I learned alot

@CrackleCat Жыл бұрын

The witches already know. The forbidden religion. Love & Kisses, maybe heaps of weed too.

@uncleles7786 Жыл бұрын

I hate to say this in public, but your channel literally keeps me from harming myself. This channel is a blessing alone.

@micahsalas8963 Жыл бұрын

Please, be gentel with yourself. All that you feel is never wrong. I encourage you to explore and dive deep into your traumas. And heal one by one... Best of luck human :)

@paperlily32 Жыл бұрын

Keep watching this channel, since it keeps you in this game we call life. It’s kept me searching for the meaning he’s promising is there. I think I can relate as far as, why am I here? Keep looking!

@gregmatchett7110 Жыл бұрын

You may be interested to hear that it's actually you choosing a better life that keeps you from hurting yourself. This channel is nothing but a medium for the decision to keep on that you have made.

@astra6712 2 ай бұрын

Given that this is a prison planet, it’s understandable to feel that this is a difficult place. The system was chosen to maintain the gods and priests as the richest, and the rest slaves. We agree that money has value so we try to reach the status of envy that a god or priest would command.

@makhomoovervoorde8988 22 күн бұрын

Sending you healing

@jonvia Жыл бұрын

There's something about Watts' lectures being on old tape that makes me feel all warm inside

@Hondeer Жыл бұрын

The times when I go out for a ride, normally fishing now, and I decide... 'I.. don't want to fish today, I am going to see where this fire road goes. See what is there.' Those are the best hours of my time. It's rare how little we truly play, even in conversation. Playful conversation is a good thing.

@StuntTriple Жыл бұрын

I love filling my purposeless time with hobbies that bring me joy.

@yogi-777 Жыл бұрын

The purpose of life is to LOVE and Learn

@Fourestgump Жыл бұрын

and GROW

@Cp_9900 Жыл бұрын

@@Fourestgump like a tumour?

@micahsalas8963 Жыл бұрын

Wow. Yes

@jonathangems 8 ай бұрын

The meaning of life is life. Alan Watts was wonderful.

@jdwyer5708 14 күн бұрын

Couldn't be more wrong. Just because it resonates, doesn't mean its true. I teach the universe.

@blackhagalaz 7 ай бұрын

My therapist once said to me "You need to let go of the thought that you need something to be finished. Because in life we are never finished with anything. There will always be something unfinished. So if you don't stop living by this inner expectation for yourself, you will rush trough life and never be happy or satisfied". So what she tried to tell me is that there should not be an endgame to living. Just living. I had no idea who Watts was previous to these videos, but I am so glad I discovered them. I really like to read and hear more from him

@nuascannan 7 ай бұрын

Yes, but some people have difficulty or resistance to finishing things. Ultimately it's a balance and these pronouncements are only applicable in context. Sometimes people take these ideas and try to permanently live by them, which only leads to the opposite then being required and circles.

@philliprobinson7724 7 ай бұрын

Hi blackhagalaz. Get a new therapist pronto mate, the woman's as blind as a bat. She didn't "let go the need to finish" studying for and passing her diplomas, did she? Yes, there will always be "something unfinished", but that doesn't mean we shouldn't finish those things which we can finish. A BA isn't as "finished" as a PhD, but it's a good start. Scientific progress is never "finished" but we'd have to be crazy as coots to abandon science just because some wacko therapist doesn't understand that personal goals are not "all or nothing", they are achieved incrementally. Only one person crosses the finish line in a relay race, but the other runners in his team also get a medal. As someone wiser than her said, "the longest journey still starts with a single step". And you don't have to rush at things frantically, just quietly plod away and you'll get there. Read Aesop's "Hare and Tortoise" parable. She tried to tell you "there should not be an endgame to living"? There is of course, it's called death and it's coming for us both one day. She's out of touch with reality. Prepare. Have something stashed away to deal with the discomforts that precede it. Your therapist should be locked up for giving you advice that's not in your best interests. Cheers, P.R.

@blackhagalaz 7 ай бұрын

@@philliprobinson7724 Thats really Not how She meant it. She didnt da "Dont finish anything in your life", She said "There is always something unfinished/to Do in your life. If you cant let go of some Things it will eat you up". And I am glad She said that to me. I am a perfectionist with severe OCD and I had a Burnout this year because I kept pressuring myself to exhaustion about every little Thing. So She said the thought of something bring finised shoumd Not matter as much. Like its good when something is, but it also Inst the end of the World when its Not.

@mikecarmean1676 Жыл бұрын

Very relevant to what's happening now, trying to be molded into and forced to live in a totalitarian world. Love his wisdom ❤️

@joleaneshmoleane8358 Жыл бұрын

Yup! And it’s not looking good. It appears the authoritarians are going to get everything they want. Looks like it’s going to be misery and pain for everyone who tries to resist in even the slightest ways. Not a lot of reasons to have hope nowadays. No wins. Only losses.

@mustang607 Жыл бұрын

Instead of evolving more thoughtfully, patiently, reasonably and naturally, we seem to be fast tracking more and more toward those clusters of dystopian futures we were warned about in so many ways.

@TheLivirus Жыл бұрын

The Chinese concept of the purposeless nature surprised me in this regard, since they appear to pursue a rather totalitarian society. I hope that the future of China is shaped by their true scholars, who have broken through the fog of survival and learned to appreciate living for what it is.

@iRavenTM Жыл бұрын

@@TheLivirus The true Chinese scholar's are censored or disappeared if they happen to speak out.

@musiclife7251 Жыл бұрын

@@TheLivirus Great point. I didn't know this either. Just goes to show how easily corruptable mankind really is. The human rights abuse with the CCP up top is shocking to say the least

@robmartin9782 Жыл бұрын

We are all visitors to this time, this place. We are just passing through. Our purpose here is to observe, to learn, to grow, to love… and then we return home. - Australian Aboriginal proverb

@nathananderson8720 Жыл бұрын

This is one of the channels that gave me the courage to start my KZfaq channel 2 months ago about self development. Now I have 164 subs and almost 80 hours of watch time. I know it’s not comparable with others but I’m still proud I started because I’ve been learning so many lessons that I couldn’t have learned without getting started in the 1st place.

@etsequentia6765 9 ай бұрын

May you be successful in your endeavors.

@nathananderson8720 9 ай бұрын

Thanks so much! I realized that the main reason for doing this is not about the success but the inspiration I've been providing some people with my stories while helping others do the same as I shared the lessons & experiences through making videos to have a sense of meaningful purpose. Therefore, I’m planning to quit nursing to pursue youtube full time as there are lots of issues in our traditional health systems as these don’t align with my values. It’s a huge learning curve but I love helping people through making videos. Also, as part of my video creation progress, I’m switching to a better editing software and a camera so the learning curve is much higher and slows down the completion speed of my next videos so please hang on tight! I do appreciate your support and kind words! I am hoping that you can join me with this endless personal development journey! :)

@jonathanortiz942 9 ай бұрын

Life’s too short to halt yourself from what you want to do. Embrace your passion , remaining Optimistic does help as well. And don’t forget to have fun through your journey. I Hope for the best for you and your success.

@nathananderson8720 9 ай бұрын

@@jonathanortiz942 Whoever you are, I don't know you personally but I can say based on what you said, I can say that you're one of the non-judgmental and open-minded people who is not fixated on tangible or external factors in order to learn from someone like me. Just because someone doesn't have a piece of paper as a credential, doesn't mean that person is not entitled to share personal experiences with the hope & intention to inspire others. Keep up with whatever it is that you're doing to improve mankind or improving your life even to a slight degree each day. This is just one part of a bigger puzzle for creating my KZfaq channel about holistic health. I literally could have died back when I was 14 years old due to major depression but here I am right now replying to you, a KZfaqr, who's full of fulfillment and dedication to help others to be a better version of themselves. I ain't better than anyone else but my old self. That's all that really makes this KZfaq thing more meaningful and enjoyable. Thanks so much for your support!

@jojijosette5946 6 ай бұрын

You did good.

@noidreculse8906 4 күн бұрын

Volunteering in your community is a benefit on so many levels. It saved my life and gave this retiree a purpose 😊

@derekdgarcia1 Жыл бұрын

This guy was way ahead of his time. I truly feel he should be in the history book for being a great philosopher. 🤯

@CordeliaWagner Жыл бұрын

Actually he is in history books...

@zarlok5294 Жыл бұрын

I think you would enjoy the writings of Daisetz Suzuki on Zen so I suggest you might like to get one of his books.

@oooboo3249 Жыл бұрын

Terence McKenna was also too

@AntithesisDCLXVI Жыл бұрын

test comment because every time i post my reply here it gets shadowbanned by the censorship settings on this channel

@AntithesisDCLXVI Жыл бұрын

Actually he's not way ahead of anything.

@erichgross7644 Жыл бұрын

INCREDIBLE illustrations. Love the ring of people with hands on each other’s mouths with the eye of Sauron gazing intently 🔥🔥🔥

@sarahsmith5045 Жыл бұрын

Really..the eye of evil..watch what you bring into your day.

@tomjohn8733 Жыл бұрын

That’s why I have faith in nothing, only in my self, admiring nature, that gives me pleasure, like listening to music, even love has its limits, except for life, life has no meaning except to enjoy it, some people worship, god, wealth and power, they always want to destroy or kill those who don’t worship their god or gods….this was absolutely beautifully express, purposelessness, love it,…

@BelieveOneGod Жыл бұрын

Can you explain the nature of wut your admiring?

@tomjohn8733 Жыл бұрын

@@BelieveOneGod yes, but more importantly is what it means to you…

@philliprobinson7724 7 ай бұрын

Hi Tomjohn. You can have faith in honesty, it always leads to truth because it is of the same substance. Cheers, P.R.

@MadRad1000 Жыл бұрын

Shoutout to the artist drawing the dynamic background really really good … quite hypnotic combined with your man’s silky tones.

@HughJass-jv2lt Жыл бұрын

Allan died in 1973.... So this wisdom is probably over 50 years old... ❤❤

@fluentpiffle Жыл бұрын

When wisdom is genuine it is not dependent on the human fabrication of ‘time’.. There is nothing else to understand other than the nature of what exists.. spaceandmotion

@MIHMediaInc Жыл бұрын

Just simply beautiful Alan Watts. "The Tao that loves & nourishes everything without lording over it".🙏❤💯

@quetzalcoatl6189 Жыл бұрын

☯️

@bjones5791 Жыл бұрын

All roads lead to the Judgement Seat of Christ.Remember that.Read the book of Matthew in your Bible if you truly want the actual Source of ALL wisdom that any of us could chew on for eternity.😉✌️👊

@evanshlom1 10 ай бұрын

Mm chewy

@23SquidOohGrrrl Жыл бұрын

Absolutely brilliant illustrator!

@jimjaspers2804 Жыл бұрын

True

@joshhigh8488 16 күн бұрын

The "have a ball" punchline made me genuinely giggle. I am so glad I am here to hear Mr Watts' words thanks to this wonderful device

@mr.bnatural3700 Жыл бұрын

After I listen to Alan Watts; I have no idea what I heard. To me it's just a bunch of rambling disjointed ideas in a very soothing voice.

@jackinthebox301 Жыл бұрын

Sounds like you're not really listening. I don't necessarily agree with him word for word, but he absolutely is making a coherent point. Approaching life as a transaction (I give X, I get Y) is degrading your experience. Searching for ultimate purpose is a distraction from life's day to day beauties(I disagree, but I understand how that's valuable). If you're missing it that's on you.

@mr.bnatural3700 Жыл бұрын

@@jackinthebox301 I meant when I listen to one of Alan Watts lectures; he will go on and on moving from one idea to the next with a mesmerizing voice. Then afterwards I realize I didn't retain a thing. It's just nice rambling

@jackinthebox301 Жыл бұрын

@@mr.bnatural3700 Ah, yeah, I see that. I grew up in Church and had that experience every Sunday lol

@benjamincollins9465 Жыл бұрын

When I was working a job that involved manufacturing, after asking a difficult question but meant a lot to the task to my team lead he would sometimes say… “none of this matters” he wasn’t a good leader but he was absolutely right. The good times we had at that job meant much more than the hours of life spent. However that is what we must do to make a living. So laugh, joke, enjoy every minute because one day we will all be gone and it probably never really mattered that we had the jobs we had, but it mattered to the relationships that you had.

@BraveCat9927 Жыл бұрын

I work in manufacturing right now, little medical screws that put people together. Ive been slowly applying these philosophies from Alan, as well as Ram Dass and Ragu Markus. Its not easy, but ive been able to treat work as play to an extent. And you are absolutely right about the relationships made. Even when i worked at popeyes i had a connection with everyone there and it made it hard to leave until it was truly the right time. Work itself can be dreadful, but i find most of my main issues right now is just taking care of myself better. I push myself a little too hard sometimes, not to mention using caffeine and nicotine as a crutch. Sleep has been my biggest struggle for a long time. Im not even sure i know what a full night of sleep is like anymore. But ill get there, one moment at a time slowly improving.

@jkranz814 Жыл бұрын

A clown may not miss the circus, but he’ll sure as heck miss the clowns

@johnjames9359 Жыл бұрын

I work in IT for a large furniture manufacturer. Whenever I would get stressed out my buddy who works in the warehouse would say “it’s just furniture”. That’s all any of it was no matter what you do for the company. That resonated with me

@katec9893 Жыл бұрын

@@BraveCat9927 I really recommend trying out drinking hot chicory instead of coffee. There are a few different brands, and you can buy them on amazon or health food shops like Holland and Barrett. I like the taste of coffee but it doesn't really agree with me and tends to make me feel a bit anxious and jittery. Chicory is caffeine free so it doesn't interfere with sleep or give palpitations.

@mr.discernment8205 Жыл бұрын

Life Does Have A Purpose: Realization that we are all souls with a spirit fused into us and we are ALL born and captive to the Darkness. Realization that Jesus is who he says he is and has given us the chance / opportunity to return to the light. We've all been lied to and brainwashed and we need to realize it, that's the purpose to our lives.

@RobertHowe-zv7gs 25 күн бұрын

Be a good person, help others, and make the world a better place than you found it.

@Mappster Жыл бұрын

I love how humanity tries its very best to find a meaning to even those things that not necesarily need one 😂 and if humanity fails to find a purpose for something its automatically scared or confused. I mean life is about the mere existence, Its a gift-time that you have and its all up to how you look at it. One thing is certain, This is a gift that you got to try out what you are good at and enjoy it to the fullest. Not everything needs a strict purpose.

@ksy4747 Жыл бұрын

It must be two things that drive humans to do this. Play and fear. One is fear as an evolutionary propelling need to rationalize and thus erase the fear of the unknown by explaining and quantifying all that we come across. Think in terms of a child watching a scary movie and the parent comes in and explain that it's just a movie and how it's a movie so it lessens the fear. The play part is just our natural curiousity and need to understand thing. Watch a child explore the world around him. He will experiment and will ask everyone never ending questions.

@theboombody Жыл бұрын

The problem is when people assign themselves a purpose that's dangerous to others. Those folks need to be told that ain't their purpose.

@MIHMediaInc Жыл бұрын

"I must trust myself to a nature that doesn't have a boss". This is the highest ideal we all should seek to be.

@michaellemmen Жыл бұрын

No, that's humanism in the highest form, and arrogance in the face of God. Follow Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:8-10 I say these things because I care about your soul more than I fear persecution.

@fluentpiffle Жыл бұрын

There is nothing else to understand other than the nature of what exists.. spaceandmotion

@MIHMediaInc Жыл бұрын

@@michaellemmen you didn't get the meaning of that line. Its so so deep. You are caught up in the lie of Jesus but not paying attention to what Jesus said. Jesus said you can do what I have done & more. Modern day Christianity does not empower you even when Jesus himself said you have the power. That line up there eludes to you getting to where Jesus said you should be at.

@robertdolcetti450 Ай бұрын

Nature is certainly ordered. Of course it has the One who gave it order. A boss, if you will.

@richardhollis2530 Жыл бұрын

After skool thank you. You introduced me Alan Watts at a time in my life when I needed him most. Bit of a life saver! No joke. Thanks

@oO2Pro4UOo Жыл бұрын

Every little thing is gonna be alright

@Nobody-sb6gf Жыл бұрын

I recommend jiddu krishnamurti if you like this kind of stuff

@richardhollis2530 Жыл бұрын

@@Nobody-sb6gf thanks I’ll have a look. Mostly been watching the school of life and anything with Alain Du Botton in

@jbon123 Жыл бұрын

good on you @Richard Hollis for happening upon Alan Watts esp if his words resonate witchoo... treasure trove of transformative concepts thoughts interpretative translations from the intrepid meaning seeker and finder who stayed studied learned and ultimately came to understand an exotic and powerful philosophy So what does he do with all that... he brings it muthascratchin home to share his beautiful treasure in hopes to enrich the lives of others don't let it go to waste brother. ❤

@climbtheskyspine5748 Жыл бұрын

All Alan Watts really did was embrace spiritual and mind-altering substances while studying Taoism, Stoicism and Buddhism and then derive his own theories and feelings from his learned experiences and life experiences. We can all become our own Alan Wattses if we choose. Buddhism and Stoicism in nature are a great place to start and perhaps to stay.

@Krath1988 5 ай бұрын

This channel is a gift to Humanity.

@stephenrose1343 2 ай бұрын

Humour is very compelling and particularly when it is self deprecating. I enjoyed the wit and insight of Alan Watts. Thank you for posting.

@ReynaSingh Жыл бұрын

We are the creators of our own lives. Whatever story we choose to tell, we watch unfold

@juliandevilliers6435 Жыл бұрын

Here's an idea, we are all the same life looking back at itself from different perspectives. The problem comes when we think we have control of the grand scheme of things, that's when we should realize that we never had any control to begin with. The art is letting go. That's when the magic of creation happens.

@anonymous-jp7bo Жыл бұрын

Yes u got a point there ☺️

@tofootball298 Жыл бұрын

@@juliandevilliers6435 can link that to the meanings of meditation

@juliandevilliers6435 Жыл бұрын

@@josephpchajek2685 Chaos within themselves / ourselves, yes absolutely. It all starts with us. The external environment we view and perceive is a reflection of ourselves. Change ourselves and being honest with our inner being can be extremely powerful for creating change in our environments. The problem comes when we view our environments as something external to ourselves when we are just passengers on the wave. Creating and perceiving this separation can certainly create chaotic occurrences.

@butterkekz9001 Жыл бұрын

You can think that until you realize, there are things you can't control. Becoming your own God isn't good. Better follow the real God who created you and loves you so much that he became human and died on the cross for your sins. Being your own "creator" will only push your ego and pride and will never give you a really fulfilled life. Maybe you'll realize that when life get's really tough. Being your own "creator" is the reason for every war and conflict in the world. Trust me, being humble like Jesus is the only way of living that could bring peace and joy to the world. And don't get me wrong, I would never say I'm perfect in doing that but if you have a relationship with God, his Spirit is working in you and you realize how bad it is to only live for your own benefits instead of loving and serving others.

@RamasesBullock Жыл бұрын

Love Alan Watts a lot and I've never heard this. This helped my depression today thank you for posting. I overthink and feel like if I'm not doing something with a meaning/purpose then I should die and I get depressed. Thank you.

@michaellemmen Жыл бұрын

Follow Jesus.

@Miaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa Жыл бұрын

@@michaellemmen that doesn’t help ( speaking from experience) .

@masokin3804 Жыл бұрын

take psychedelics

@cbass4352 Жыл бұрын

@@masokin3804 I’ve taken lsd but the trips never rlly meant anything important imo

@masokin3804 Жыл бұрын

@@cbass4352 i think intention before doing it is important , for example u can see many people smoking weed and be lazy and wasting their life and at the same time there are people who become a better meditation practitioner with it.

@Okaythen193 Жыл бұрын

You’re art is so amazing! ❤ I can see how hard you work on these. Im a huge Alan Watts fan btw, all of these things are very true! The only meaning life has is exactly what you give it, and that’s something I am learning and that I hope everyone can learn. We get told that we have to look up to someone whether it’s a teacher, boss, anyone really, as if we need guidance. I’m not saying guidance doesn’t help, but really it’s nature that works through all of us. As a matter of fact we are nature, we’re just individual pieces of it with our own perspectives and beliefs about it. The only thing truly capable of guiding us is nature, and that’s really all it’s ever been. We carry thru this world with too much stress and heartache. But just stop and try to pay attention to the silence , try and let the noise that is constantly going in this world inside and outside of us fade away for a moment. You can see that underneath there is nothing there but just infinity, never-ending infinity. That’s all we’ve ever been , and will be even after death, and was before we were born. This infinity shows itself mainly through darkness and silence, this is why meditation can help. Even if it just 2-5 min anything can help you see that your light lies within you and shines through the parts of you that you probably don’t look at often. The fact that our existence has no beginning nor end is enough for you to believe in yourself and every single thing you want to do with your life, which I’m here to say that you can and will do it. All of this is nothing yet everything which is constantly happening within each one of us. I’m telling you , I know it’s hard to focus on it with the busy way we are forced to live, but it’s good to try and remember this when life gets you down. Buddha said “There is no path to happiness, Happiness is the path.” Just remember that right now in this moment you can be happy, but you need to believe and understand that you very well deserve the happiness that you are seeking.

@climbtheskyspine5748 Жыл бұрын

If what you say is true, nobody is truly forced to live a busy life. `{^,;;,^}' Nobody is forced to live in a specific place or in a specific manner. It's a choice.

@BritEssex 10 ай бұрын

Thanks for those very wise words. It makes total sense. I've started to challenge how we're forced to live and there's not much sense in it. I believe if i make it through each day that's enough . Modern life taken its toll on me so now I've pulled back its too much sacrifice for essentially nothing.

@Thisisnttravis Жыл бұрын

these vids from Alan watts always get me to not take things too seriously and the problems attached to my ego start to wash away and I feel peace

@bjornterra8644 Жыл бұрын

smoking a joint, thinking about YOUR life, and listening to HIS wisdom feels perfect.

@micahsalas8963 Жыл бұрын

Lets smoke one together and talk about this stuff.

@Sh0n0 Жыл бұрын

Smoking is for losers lmao

@thc7865 Жыл бұрын

Yeah smoke one

@Useaname Жыл бұрын

That's a waste of your life. My brother has spent the last 40 years doing that and has achieved nothing.

@DaPoopIsInDaPudding 3 ай бұрын

@@Useanamemust be in your blood don’t blame the grass

@alichamas63 Жыл бұрын

We must admire two brilliant minds here. The illustrator, and Mr Watts. Beautiful thinkers and communicators, something which is a rare talent in the human race.

@musicalADD_theband 3 ай бұрын

Lmao the illustrator is a computer program that makes presentations with generic doodles

@angeladawn805 Жыл бұрын

Love this man's voice and wisdom..... reminds me of a chill Eddie Izard

@OMNIDON2000 5 ай бұрын

We should all have leisure time. I wish we could spend all of our time learning things. Sounds heavenly.

@KoolT Жыл бұрын

I find meaning in raising children. Great meaning and learning.

@lulumoon6942 Жыл бұрын

Bless your family and these years together. ❤️🙏

@noremac4807 Жыл бұрын

Wish I could have done more of that. Have had to work full time since each of my 3 babies were 6 weeks old

@Stix-hb1bk Жыл бұрын

This is the most ridiculous idea I have ever heard. If your have no purpose, then why be here at all? From nothing into someone for nothing? No. We just randomly occurred from “nature” for no reason at all but to just be? No. God IS our purpose. People ARE our purpose. To love, to fall in love, to procreate, to help those who need help, to feed those who are starving, to water those who are thirsty, to shelter those who are without, to perform medicine on those who are sick, to rescue those who need rescuing, to suffer those who pass on because nature overcame them AND to accept risk (as it is a risk simply to be alive. No purpose?! Then why have a job, a career, any interest in anything at all? Why have children? We are called to be selfless, not selfish. If you stop everything your doing right now and just “enjoy” life, do not take on responsibilities, do not strive to awaken and bring to life your spirit, expand your mind or commit your entire being to another (in marriage for example), then what do you have? I’d say not much. Our purpose is to commune with God AND the people He created. Is this difficult at times? Sure. Are we let down and heartbroken at times, absolutely. Do NOT stop doing all these things because it can be painful, difficult and stressful. You do them in spite of all the hurt! The good and the bad are necessary parts of the purpose. Your going to have pain regardless. Give that pain in your life meaning. This is REAL life..here and now. Not some fairy tale utopia. This world can be very cruel to us all. To be here for each other IS our purpose. I will agree the artwork is amazing.

@mclarlinda Жыл бұрын

The way the audience became quiet in the last few statements of this lecture. You can almost feel the knowledge being absorbed and hitting home.

@AirOctivParanormal Жыл бұрын

Whenever I listen to Alan Watts speak I always feel better afterwards.

@coolstuff8925 5 күн бұрын

Absolutely brilliant, such a wise man.

@StainlessSteelPolish Жыл бұрын

This lecture played a big part in my dropping out of school.

@stratiskalaitzoglou7377 Жыл бұрын

I think it’s gonna play a big part in my dropping out of society!

@SlapPa9 Жыл бұрын

How long ago was this lecture?

@StainlessSteelPolish Жыл бұрын

@@SlapPa9 I believe Watts recorded this lecture some time in the 1970's. I have been listening to Watts for several years.

@philliprobinson7724 7 ай бұрын

Hi S.S.P.. Big mistake. Do you think his opinions are the only ones? Have you read the classical philosophers? What do you think of Berkeleyan solipsism?. You've found one nice glass of wine, why not try some others? Cheers, P.R.

@ssk58607 6 ай бұрын

Really curious on how this turned out for you lol not trying to put you down but I wouldn't give my education up based on some rich dude says life is meaningless

@jessetorres8738 Жыл бұрын

Life is what we make of it so it's up to all of us to make it the best we can.

@PhamVans 5 ай бұрын

I'll never get over how powerful your illustrations are. The way people behave in the corporate world is precisely that, nobody ever says what they are actually thinking. It's literally like everybody has their mouthes covered for sake of losing their jobs.

@user-so3kx5sv8r 4 ай бұрын

More relevant than ever in 2024

@FrashFrashHD Жыл бұрын

I think the point is to be in the moment and enjoy life. Do whatever you enjoy and remember to be here while you can.

@risingbull84 Жыл бұрын

"Life has no purpose." That's the spirit!

@ditkovichpaysmyrent Жыл бұрын

The fact of the matter is that it’s a luxury to be able to step back and reflect on life. Many people don’t have the time, money, or resources to do so. They’re simply caught up in the ACTUAL meaning of life; the will to survive.

@ukpoetry Жыл бұрын

Love Alan Watts.

@darthnihilus511 Жыл бұрын

What a brilliant man. His ability to quote scripture and literature has never ceased to amaze me.

@AntithesisDCLXVI Жыл бұрын

A nihilistic Sith Lord amazed by nihilism? Sounds like confirmation bias, preferring information that reinforces rather than challenging the beliefs you want to have.

@AntithesisDCLXVI Жыл бұрын

Y'know, I like to pretend being a Sith Lord, too. They're way cooler and more fun to play as than Jedi. But I don't let it trick me into serving the Prince of Darkness in real life, and neither should you, no matter how much as an Angel of Light he may appear.

@darthnihilus511 Жыл бұрын

@@AntithesisDCLXVI bro, it’s a picture.

@AntithesisDCLXVI Жыл бұрын

btw sorry for all the comments but when I post these together this channel's censorship settings auto-shadowban them. I can tell because I'm also checking these threads from an incognito window not logged-in.

@AntithesisDCLXVI Жыл бұрын

Also it's not just a picture, it's a philosophy. You trying to minimize things as just a picture is disingenuous.

@devonmalcolm34 Жыл бұрын

In these times our purpose should be questioned by many & still very few understand what times we are living in.

@jonboy4601 6 ай бұрын

I listen to alan every night...its the only thing that helps me drift off to sleep. This is one of my favourite talks and seeing it along side the artwork was a real treat. Very nice video ❤

@void3824 Жыл бұрын

I never get sick of Alan.

@jennarentz Жыл бұрын

This came at the perfect moment in my life. Thank you. I’ve just recently accepted this and then I saw the title of the video and thought: I guess we’re on the same page 🌻💫🌸

@juliandevilliers6435 Жыл бұрын

There is much more, Jeep searching and keep exploring the magic of being alive!

@natethegr8230 Жыл бұрын

Looks like the algorithm is working.

@jawbrace Жыл бұрын

whatever DUDE

@juliandevilliers6435 Жыл бұрын

@@jawbrace Cool DUUUUUUDE, vibe on

@thecreamyone3606 Жыл бұрын

I 2nd that

@haydndinsdale Жыл бұрын

"I must trust myself to the totally unknown... I must trust myself to a nature, which doesn't have a boss... because a boss is a system of mistrust."

@MrYikes-dk2mb Жыл бұрын

I can hear Watts for hours upon end. 🙏🏼

@georgeanastasopoulos5865 Жыл бұрын

A wonderful, thought-provoking, and very enlightening lecture.

@CordeliaWagner Жыл бұрын

My life has no purpose. I work 9to5 for good money, and than come home and do whatever I want. I am 41 and people tell me my life is waisted because I am childfree. I look at mothers my age and think NOPE! I am too happy with my liife to want all the strwss and financial worries just to fullfill "the purpose of precreation". I don't think people who now have kids are willing to give up their jobs to care for elderly parents. And kids don't equal company at old age. I have no big plans or goals, never had. I was self employed and I earned a lot of money so I could afford travelling. And that's what I did a lot of. And now I totally changed my lufe and enjoy a calm routine including sleeping in at the weekened, playing video games and smoking pot and laying for hours in the tub, or outside at the river when it's hot. And I totally love my life first work second no obligstions style.

@enigmavariations3809 Жыл бұрын

I'm childfree, too. I'm ADHD and my wife is bipolar. The last thing I want is a bipolar child with ADHD! People say we're selfish but having kids doesn't make you unselfish. The most selfish people I know have kids! I remember being called selfish once. I asked him " so how much money do you give to charity?" He said "None". I said " I try to give 10% of my income to charity. Now, whos the selfish one?" Having kids means that you now have less sleep, less free time, less sex and less money while also having more worries, more arguments, more bills and more anxiety. Parents are secretly jealous of childfree couples and several parents have privately confessed this to me over the years. They always start by saying "I love my kids, BUT if I could do it over again..."

@bennward3673 Жыл бұрын

Help me

@BandAid350z Жыл бұрын

This story is so sad.

@timboumans1080 Жыл бұрын

You don't need kids mate it are just tubes 😜

@giovannif5444 Жыл бұрын

Psalms 34:8 “Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.”

@ANTINATALIST_lewis Жыл бұрын

WONDERFUL now run along

@arlinegeorge6967 Жыл бұрын

Beautiful lecture ! As always enjoyed. Thank you, love and peace to all.

@Harshharsh111 Жыл бұрын

Great work and RIP master Alan watts.

@hasuo9749 Жыл бұрын

Life has no big purpose.. We are indoctrinated that we need a purpose in life in order to start chasing it.. The moment we start chasing something in that moment others start benefiting from our chase.. The less time you chase material stuffs and purposes in life that others train you to have The more time you have to learn and value what you truly need in life.. Peace and wisdom.. Whit wisdom comes a long healthy life that doesn't enrich lazy or lazy manipulative persons because you are to wise to ever be dependent on others for something whatever that is. Stay strong stay smart stay lazy when it comes to making others rich by chasing things that only make you wanna chase something else again.. Life is hard because we choose to not learn not open our eyes and ears not understand world we live in ...

@cjworm4706 Жыл бұрын

Living your Life without your happiness being dependent on another Human Being is the key to living a Good Life. The ability to enjoy life by yourself is of Great Importance. Humans change over time so have a Hobby that you Love which doesn't involve another Human!! Happiness is the Purpose of Life!!

@alexandersheridan2179 Жыл бұрын

I truly love listening to Alan Watts! You can hear the smile on his face when he speaks with his signature soft and playful tone. I was almost in a daze while listening, so that when the clip ended I was surprised and jolted back to reality

@scottgeorge5357 Жыл бұрын

Thank you for putting into words the feelings I have had ALL my life.

@gaufrid1956 Жыл бұрын

"Little pebble here in my hand... How long have you been here?" "Little human here on the sand, now I'm lying here in your hand, you to me are but a passing breeze" - "Happiness Runs" by Donovan Leitch (Originally titled "The Pebble and the Man"). I thought of this song immediately while watching this video! We simply live, and as humans, hopefully love, and nothing else matters.

@theslowride66 Жыл бұрын

I have been trying to articulate this message to a few friends of mine. Like I ordered some help here is this video! ME, being A graduate of the George Carlin school of Filosify ( I spelled it wrong on Purpose) & knowing this stuff will never be taught or learned main stream . Its a personal voyage. I find Allen Watts extremely refreshing & after Skool brings it to life . Kudos to all involved . Prefect timing Thank you so very much.

@_timetravels4528 Жыл бұрын

sadly 90% of the time these people have no time to listen nor understand these kind of messages.

@theslowride66 Жыл бұрын

@@_timetravels4528 more like 99.44 that's the whole point of this message Don't let the rat race rule you.

@bryank427 Жыл бұрын

Its good to be at a point in life where you can live in the moment and not worry about the small things. Ive been in those situations multiple points in my life and it helps to give calm and clarity.

@remcomettrop6366 Жыл бұрын

This is just what I needed right now. Thank you!!

@hannekehoekstra1458 Жыл бұрын

Alan Watts is a joy to listen to. His voice is soothing and calming. His words are true wisdom for me. Thank you, After skool, for making this video, and of course previous ones with Alan. A big hug from the Netherlands!

@melodygn Жыл бұрын

My take is that it's not that life hasn't purpose at all, but the we don't lost ourselves looking for it, instead live and enjoy the moment, the present and then, when you reach the end of life's tube, you'll realize that was your purpose all along. ✌️

@Capris9x 2 ай бұрын

I've watched this video many times. Every time I wish I was sitting among the audience listening to him. Allan you are an inspiration.

@Nitephall Жыл бұрын

Your artwork is amazing! Thank you for this treat.

@raymondtendau2749 Жыл бұрын

Life is not primarily a quest for pleasure,as Freud Believed or a quest for power as Alfred Adler taught,but a quest for meaning.The great task for any person is to find meaning in his or her life.Frankl saw three possible sources for meaning:in work(Doing something significant), In love (Caring for another person,as Frankl held on to the image of his wife through the Darkest days in Auschwitz),and in courage in difficult times.Suffering in and of itself is meaningless.We give our suffering meaning by the way we respond to it.

@natethegr8230 Жыл бұрын

Jordan Peterson says meaning is found in responsibly. Which I believe you listed 3 types.

@caspervanhelvoirt Жыл бұрын

@@natethegr8230 Peterson has been highly influenced by the works of Jung and Frankl for example (and rightfully so). Man's Search For Meaning, which OP referes to, is one hell of a read. So thought provoking!

@fluentpiffle Жыл бұрын

There is nothing else to understand other than the nature of what exists.. spaceandmotion

@mr.discernment8205 Жыл бұрын

@J Prez Nothing is older then the idea of God, it is our conditioning that makes us think so. Call out to Jesus and ask him for some kind of clarification, if you do this with your mind and emotions being one, then you'll get something to be sure. Take 3 steps back and clear your mind of everything before doing this. Good Luck my friend. Cheers!

@mr.discernment8205 Жыл бұрын

@J Prez I understand, just remember Jesus of the bible because some day, when things really get bad and you may find yourself at the end of your rope or even worse and nothing works then call out to him but make sure it is Jesus of the Bible as there are many counterfeits. BTW, ever notice that there aren't any counterfeit Buddha's or Zeus's or Baal's or any other pagan gods but there are many counterfeit Jesus's. I guess there's no need to counterfeit something that is already a counterfeit. I understand, no problem, just remember when all is lost, call on him, you'll be happy you did. Wish you all the best.

@BirdsTheWurd Жыл бұрын

Alan Watts is my spirit animal. Edit: Also flawless production, execution and creativity put into this. Well done.

@Electromowls Жыл бұрын

The drawings are so well done that, they resonated with the words of Alan watts

@danielhughes8833 4 ай бұрын

Breathing is the purpose!

@CJFreeza Жыл бұрын

leave it to Alan Watts to make you feel better when you are feeling at your worst

@CrisFitnessTV Жыл бұрын

I can stay and listen Alan speeches for days!!!

@frater_niram Жыл бұрын

This was both hilarious and true.. Laughter and humor is always the best teacher of life in life

@alexmitchell6496 Жыл бұрын

The illustrations are amazing in these videos.

@eyuelnegash2681 Жыл бұрын

Alan watt the best spiritual teacher thank you after skool💚

@dropbearjd8986 Жыл бұрын

Resisting takes more than existing... That's what's gotten us into this mess; Apathy. Purposelessness still requires freedom. Freedom is the only thing worth fighting for 🙌🙏❤

@DavidGalich77 Жыл бұрын

Such good messages. Sometimes we just need the story.

@renoir4964 21 күн бұрын

The bit about music having no purpose was brilliant. The best conductor would get to the end fastest. Makes you think.

@wordsofenlightenment3731 Жыл бұрын

Why afterskool will still be one of my favorite KZfaq Channel, among many other reasons, is the very fact that it's the first KZfaq Channel that I first heard Alan Watts voice from. The title of the video is "Life's Not A Journey". That day was the beginning of my great adventure with one of the most superb human being that ever lived ❤️

@cecilcharlesofficial Жыл бұрын

Let me just say this, we can’t ever believe what Watts is saying until we get ourselves to really LOOK at those moments in life that get us choked up in awe, in joy, in pure “Holy cow this feels amazing, profoundly.” We have to first see that such a feeling is precisely what we’re looking for, though perhaps we’re hoping it’ll be on a more permanent level. The desire for awe, for relief, for meaning - it’s behind our drive for wealth and family and security, simply because we think we'll FEEL those things (awe, relief, meaning, joy, etc) when we have those things. Don’t deny that it drives you. Now, the thing to realize (without throwing everything away) is that it's the feeling you want, not necessarily the life situation. Maybe if you found more joy in daily life you wouldn't take a job you hate. It's a fair question. And then the second part: finding that that very same feeling of awe can come simply from spending enough time paying attention to one’s internal sensations (just the buzz or tingle before you give the sensation extra weight by calling it an emotion). Because before you label that sensation as an emotion it’s still just a sensation, about which you - while spending time feeling what it feels like - have yet to place a label. And so it’s this little trick - to just keep ‘feeling’ the sensation and pretty soon the rest of your body and mind start to relax and become appreciative. It’s like maybe sensation is direct experience, and by giving it its due (without labeling the sensations and judging them as good or bad- rather, simply experiencing them) that we’re given the feeling of joy and awe in reward for our faith - our faith to simply let go and feel what our body is presenting to us. Just try it. It makes little logical sense and yet seems to work. And once you have a little practice by which you’ve experienced awe, and you know you can get back to it at most-any moment… then you can really play.

@lindsaylawlismusic Жыл бұрын

Love this! I say something similar to the people i counsel. “Feel it, don’t fuel it”. It’d the stories and the resistance that brings pain.

@cecilcharlesofficial Жыл бұрын

@@lindsaylawlismusic precisely - I think the more I practice this the more I realize we live our whole lives in states of resistance and excessive emotional frustration that comes from that. I say 'excessive,' knowing that it feels that way, though also knowing that the ups and downs of life never go away. Still, I've been doing this for a few months now - paying attention to sensation in my body as often as I can (doing it right now, do it in conversation, do it onstage while singing), and it's like the courage it takes to unclench inside and feel the waves of anxiety run through my body - doing that calms me and lets me perform (or converse) my best - in a relaxed, playful way, and I surprise myself. It's spontaneity / flow state and it feels like you catch it by consciously letting yourself feel life (vs resisting it) in as many moments as possible.

@scottgoulette8900 Жыл бұрын

Well said, reminiscent of the famous Shakespeare saying that "Nothing is either good or bad but thinking makes it so."