There is no meaning to life except the meaning man gives his

The great humanist philosopher Erich Fromm, seeker of truth and freedom, once declared: “There is no meaning to life except the meaning man gives his life by the unfolding of his powers.” These words strike like a bell through the vast halls of existence, calling humankind to awaken. Fromm teaches that life is not given to us with ready-made purpose. The heavens do not whisper to each soul a fixed destiny. Rather, meaning is something we must create, shaped through our choices, our growth, and the full realization of our inner strength.

To unfold one’s powers is to grow into the fullness of what one is capable of becoming. Within every person lies a seed—a potential for creativity, compassion, courage, and wisdom. If that seed remains dormant, life becomes hollow, a mere existence without direction. But when a man or woman brings forth their hidden abilities, using them to shape the world and to serve others, they weave meaning into the fabric of their days. This unfolding is an act of creation, a collaboration between the individual and the universe itself.

History offers us a shining example in the life of Helen Keller. Born into darkness and silence, many thought her life would have no purpose. Yet through relentless effort and the guidance of her teacher, she unfolded her powers of language, thought, and spirit. She went on to inspire millions, proving that meaning is not found in circumstances, but in the inner flame of determination and growth. Keller’s life is a living testament to Fromm’s truth: that meaning arises when one dares to expand beyond their limits.

In contrast, countless souls have wandered through life without ever awakening to their potential. Empires have been filled with rulers who possessed wealth and armies, yet remained empty because they never sought to unfold their true powers. Their lives were governed by external forces—greed, tradition, or fear—rather than inner purpose. Their reigns faded into dust, leaving no lasting imprint, for they never shaped meaning from within.

Let this teaching be passed to all who seek to live fully: do not wait for life to hand you a purpose. Instead, create it through the bold exploration of your gifts and the courageous unfolding of your spirit. For as Fromm teaches, the meaning of life is not a treasure buried somewhere in the heavens, but a fire kindled in the heart. The more we bring forth the powers within us, the brighter that fire burns, illuminating not only our own path, but the paths of those who walk beside us.