Life is a complex weave of tapestries with unique interpretation, understanding and perception. Each person on this earth is created as an individual and with that freedom comes the joy, and sometimes frustration, of experiencing our own unique life. What is life? This question has been asked for generation upon generation. Just as Solomon pondered the true meaning in life through all of his wealth and power saying that it is all simply “grasping the wind”, our patients will question their existence and continually be in need of direction as they stumble and are blinded by trials in understanding life. Life is “what we experience from morning to night, seven days a week, for approximately 70 years.” Although King Solomon, clearly an educated and wise man, probably understood the definition of life, he continually searched for meaning in the life that he knew. As occupational therapists, we need to guide our patients in their search for meaning by helping them create an excellent life through meaningful occupation.
Occupational therapists are not professionals walking around with “excellent life vaccines” in their pockets, searching for a sad soul or a broken spirit. No. OT’s are uniquely qualified people who can direct their patients in understanding the essential connection between meaningful occupation and experiencing an excellent life. Adapted from: Cari ******, OTS, April 17, 2002, Human Occupation -- Options? www.otnow.com/mailman/options/otlist_otnow.com Archive? www.mail-archive.com/[email protected]
