In the book, "Candide" the main character, Candide himself wonders what the true meaning of mankind is. He goes searching high and low for an answer that will suit him and be in agreeance with his own views. However, this is the wrong way to go about it. You can't always think that the answer to a question will benefit you or you will have a very unhappy and dissatisfying life. Anyway, Candide asks an old man what he believes is the meaning to mankind. This man tells him that he should not be asking such questions and slams the door in his face. Needless to say, this was not what he expected. Then, Candide comes across a family of an old man and his young son and daughter. When Candide encounters them on his journey they are tilling their farm uncessantly. Candide asks the old man why they insist on constantly working. The old man tells him that it is the only way to keep from becoming content with life. This, the old man says, is the meaning to life. It is to never become content with life so as to always have goals in life and to never be overcome with eternal boredom. I believe this to be true to a certain extent. Some people find joy in endless inactivity. I, however, need some kind of stimulation every now and then to be truly happy with life. Once again, your meaning to life will always depend on the type of person you are and your personal mentality.
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