The Joy of Exploration: Why I’ve Spent 85 Years Grappling with Life’s Big Questions

“An unexamined life is not worth living.” Socrates’ ancient wisdom rings as true today as it did two millennia ago. At 85, I reflect on my life’s journey—a journey defined by a relentless quest to understand the profound mysteries of our existence. From the universe’s origins to the purpose of life, the existence of God, the nature of human suffering, injustice, and racism, I’ve spent my entire life grappling with questions that many choose to ignore.

The truth is, not everyone embarks on this quest. In my encounters with others, I am often amazed at how many have never deeply considered these fundamental issues. It’s as though life’s biggest questions—those that touch the core of what it means to be human—go unexamined, passed over in favor of the every day and the superficial.

Exploring these existential questions has been exhilarating for me. It has been an essential contributor to my enjoyment of life and has liberated me from the chains of superstition and unfounded beliefs. The freedom from what I call “tooth fairy religions”—those that demand belief without evidence and promise rewards in some unprovable afterlife—has been the greatest benefit of my lifelong inquiry. By questioning everything and accepting nothing on blind faith, I’ve found a clarity and peace that no dogma can provide.

Many find comfort in religious beliefs or societal norms that offer easy answers, but I find my comfort in the unknown and the quest for truth. To grapple with life’s big questions is not to expect definitive answers but to find joy in the journey. It’s a journey that encourages curiosity, fosters intellectual freedom, and, most importantly, provides liberation from the myths that often serve to control rather than enlighten.

I’ve often wondered why so many people shy away from this journey. Perhaps it’s the discomfort of uncertainty or the daunting prospect of confronting deeply held beliefs. Maybe it’s the fast pace of modern life, where time for reflection seems a luxury few can afford. Yet, the rewards are immense for those who do take the time to explore. The journey toward understanding our universe, our purpose, and the human condition is not just a path to knowledge—it’s a path to freedom.

As I look back on 85 years of exploration, I see a life enriched by the questions and truths I’ve sought. My journey has been about more than just finding answers; it’s been about rejecting the easy comforts of superstition and instead embracing the exhilarating freedom that comes with a life of inquiry. This is the joy of the examined life, which I wish more would experience.

In a world filled with complexities, injustices, and suffering, the need to question and understand is more critical than ever. So, I encourage others: don’t shy away from the big questions. Dive into them, grapple with them, and find your path to freedom from superstition. It’s a journey worth taking that can enrich your life and provide a deeper understanding of the world and your place within it.

William James Spriggs