I stumbled across this gem of a video by Elizabeth Gilbert, who discusses an idea by the less than idealistic, 19th century German philosopher, Arthur Schopenhauer.

Schopenhauer once wrote, among other optimism-deflating utterances, “Just remember, once you’re over the hill you begin to pick up speed.”

“Each day is a little life: every waking and rising a little birth, every fresh morning a little youth, every going to rest and sleep a little death.” ~ Arthur Schopenhauer

Gilbert was attracted his idea of a porcupine as a metaphor for love.

She explains how Schopenhauer uses the porcupine to contemplate the human cycles, as they attempt to engage with others, falter and try again—out of need, or simply human nature.

Gilbert explains it eloquently and beautifully!

I love imagining people, as lone creatures out in the wild, wanting to be loved, but afraid of hurting and being hurt.

Gilbert distills from this “dance of intimacy” the essential ingredients of happiness.

Enjoy!

~

Relephant read:

The Secret to Happiness: Happy International Happiness Day!

Author: Tammy Stone

Editor: Ashleigh Hitchcock

Photo: Pixoto, video still