On Being Human

The qualities required to be human have been pondered extensively over time. Great minds such as Plato and Aristotle have formulated their own theories. Of course, certainty is difficult to obtain in relation to what defines a human. After all, it is difficult to be sure of where humans really first came from. There is evidence that can be studied and speculated over, but can anyone really be certain? Such is the nature of what truly defines a human. Aristotle, Plato, Russell, and Buddha shaped the ideals of a human based on their own ideals. When it comes to what a human should be, it is all a matter of how one chooses to live as a human and not by standards formed by one individual.

We all live our lives differently. We have separate religions, cultures, languages, and behaviors. We shape our own definition of what is normal for a human being. But what is normal behavior? If you step outside of your own surroundings into places as far away as India to places as near as your neighbor's living room; you will find a very different world from your own. How is it possible to fit these people into the ideals that were proposed by others? We have basic laws that govern how a human should behave, but even those vary by culture.

The way that a person should live is contemplated throughout the world. It is the subject of direction and that which others seek guidance in. The honest fact of the matter is that no one really knows how many lives we have. It is only certain that we have the one that we are living. But with this train of thought, is it not more important to live life striving to do everything you dream of? It seems simple enough, but not everyone is following that pathway. Many are too wrapped up in living under the direction of a voice. That voice can be a mother, a father, a priest, or a person who died centuries ago. But living under the strict guidance of another mind does not make anyone a better human.