Children Quote by Viktor E. Frankl
““Both used the typical argument—they had nothing more to expect from life. In both cases it was a question of getting them to realize that life was still expecting something from them; something in the future was expected of them. We found, in fact, that for the one it was his child whom he adored and who was waiting for him in a foreign country. For the other it was a thing, not a person. This man was a scientist and had written a series of books which still needed to be finished. His work could not be done by anyone else, any more than another person could ever take the place of the father in his child’s affections.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Man's Search for Meaning, 1946
People often feel life has nothing left to offer, yet purpose can be found in future responsibilities, whether caring for loved ones or completing unique work.
In simple terms: Purpose can be discovered through future obligations.
Key Takeaway
Identify a future responsibility that gives your life meaning.
Themes
purpose
responsibility
meaning
future
relationships
Mood
reflective
hopeful
Type
motivational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- caregiver role
- unfinished creative project
- career transition
- personal crisis
Key Concepts
existential psychology
logotherapy
humanism
Questions to Reflect On
- What future responsibility could give you a sense of purpose?
- How does caring for others shape your meaning?
A Different Perspective
Purpose may feel abstract without concrete goals.
