I go to movies, go out with friends, go to car shows. I have a

In the bustling world of modern existence, where the pursuit of success often eclipses the pursuit of joy and connection, Axl Rose’s words, “I go to movies, go out with friends, go to car shows. I have a zoo,” echo a truth that resonates through the ages: life is not merely about achievement, but also about the simple pleasures and the companionship that enrich our experience. Rose, a man who has achieved fame and recognition, speaks to the human need for balance in life—the importance of indulging in the things that bring joy, curiosity, and wonder, even amidst the pressures of greatness.

In the ancient world, philosophers often taught that the pursuit of the good life was not simply about intellectual or spiritual pursuits, but also about finding moments of pleasure and rest. Aristotle, in his Nicomachean Ethics, spoke of eudaimonia, or the flourishing life, which required not only virtuous action but also the enjoyment of simple, everyday pleasures—friendship, leisure, and the joy of the senses. Just as Aristotle recognized that one must live in accordance with nature and nurture the soul, so too does Axl Rose embrace a well-rounded existence. His actions, like the activities he mentions, reflect a deep understanding of the need to balance work with recreation, to take pleasure in the moments that make life worth living.

The Roman philosophers, too, understood the value of enjoying life’s simpler pleasures. Seneca, the Stoic philosopher, believed that one must find peace not through excessive indulgence but through moderation and companionship. Though his philosophy is often seen as one of self-discipline and resilience, he also believed in the importance of friendships and leisure activities as part of a balanced life. The Romans, though immersed in grand projects of empire-building and war, often found solace in banquets, games, and the companionship of friends and family. Axl Rose, in his quote, mirrors this ancient wisdom—acknowledging that while one might strive for greatness in their work, there is also a need to enjoy life’s simpler aspects, be it the excitement of a car show, the entertainment of a movie, or the companionship found in the zoo.

In modern times, the pursuit of success often comes with the expectation of sacrifice—sacrificing leisure for achievement, sacrificing friendship for individual glory. Axl Rose, a man of rockstar fame, defies this notion by openly embracing the joys of life beyond the stage. His mention of simple activities, like going to movies and spending time with friends, reflects a deeper truth about the human condition: true contentment comes not only from what we accomplish, but from the experiences that make us feel truly alive. In this sense, his words call us to remember that our work, while important, is only part of the picture; the moments we spend with those we love, engaging in the joys of life, are just as essential to our well-being.

Consider the example of Alexander the Great, whose ambition led him to conquer much of the known world. While his military genius and vision were extraordinary, it is said that Alexander, in moments of respite, took great pleasure in the company of friends and in the exploration of new lands. He understood the value of leisure and wonder, which allowed him to refresh his spirit before embarking on the next great challenge. Even the greatest conquerors and leaders in history have understood the importance of balance—between duty and pleasure, between action and rest.

The lesson from Axl Rose’s words is profound: life, though filled with ambition and work, must also be lived in the present, with joy and connection. The human soul thrives not only on great achievements but on the small, meaningful experiences that nourish the heart and spirit. Whether it is the companionship of friends, the wonder of a movie, the thrill of a car show, or the peaceful enjoyment of a zoo, these simple pleasures serve to remind us that life’s richness is found not only in our strivings but in the moments that bring us joy.

In our own lives, let us take inspiration from Axl Rose’s approach. While we must continue to pursue our goals and ambitions, we must also remember the importance of balance—that success does not come at the expense of our happiness or relationships. Let us find time for the simple pleasures: the laughter shared with friends, the thrill of a hobby, the beauty of nature, and the joy of discovery. In doing so, we cultivate a life that is not only successful but truly fulfilling, one that honors both the grand ambitions and the small joys that make us human.