Behind the Veil

Life can be seen as multiple layers of reality and meaning. This is true in existential psychology; our human perception and experience is grounded on a sense of stability--meaning is attached to our relationship with people (Mitwelt), life-long goals, and attachment with the built environment. We cover our worries through many layers of meaning that is difficult to penetrate. What we hold dear, true, and close to our hearts is something that we do not wish to lose upon certain death.

"Nothingness" is what we humans truly fear. The effects attributed to a causal form, a feeling of unease can destroy the many layers of meaning that we experience in everyday life. The sensation of floating endlessly in the void is horrifying enough; to simply not exist, is incomprehensible. However, in all this doom and gloom, there is always the human need for companionship. To force an individual to die alone, is the worst thing you can do to a human being. Death in the midst of friends, family, or a significant other is a last desperate attempt to hold on to meaning. With meaning, there is stability, and with it, there is a sense of hope.