You can live without a father who accepts you, but you cannot live without a world that makes some sense to you

You can live without a father who accepts you, but you cannot live without a world that makes some sense to you

Rollo May, a renowned American existential psychologist, emphasized the importance of finding meaning and purpose in life. In his work, May often explored the concept of authenticity and the need for individuals to live in alignment with their true selves. The quote, “You can live without a father who accepts you, but you cannot live without a world that makes some sense to you,” speaks to the fundamental human need for understanding and coherence in the world around us.

May believed that individuals must confront the existential challenges of life, including the search for meaning, in order to live authentically. He argued that without a sense of purpose or understanding of the world, individuals may feel lost, disconnected, and ultimately unfulfilled. In this sense, the quote highlights the idea that acceptance from others, such as a father figure, is not as essential as finding a sense of meaning and coherence in one’s own life.

For many people, the search for meaning and understanding is a central aspect of their existence. Without a sense of purpose or direction, individuals may struggle to find fulfillment and satisfaction in their lives. May believed that this search for meaning is a fundamental aspect of human nature, and that individuals must confront the challenges of existence in order to live authentically.