Tuesday, April 6, 2010

Youth. The freest time of our lives. How should we spend it?

Let's get down brass tacks. This blog will be a little confusing, but I hope my point becomes clearer as I go. I am going to have to give you some context before I get to my main idea, so let's begin.

Here's a big question for you: What is the meaning of life? Well--here's my answer, or semi-answer. Whatever the meaning of life is, it revolves around people. People, relationships, friendships, encounters, acquaintances, kisses, hugs, handshakes, smiles, glances...it's about people. Memories.

Personally, there is nothing more fun for me than to go out to a great restaurant with people I love. Eat, drink and be merry, right? Being in good company for a great meal and having time to talk is my idea of a good night.

Here's the part that comes out of the blue: Some memories can cost money. Some of the more magnificent memory-making settings cost a LOT of money.

For example:

Today in dance class one of the guys made an announcement about a music festival that will be held a couple weeks from now. Music, camping, food...basically a mini Woodstock. I was really interested until he announced how much tickets cost.

"Tickets are fifty dollars."

Well. Never mind then. I don't know about you, but I can't afford a $50 ticket to a two-day festival. I need that money for...for...wait--what DO I need that money for?

Oh I remember. For boring stuff. Loans, tuition, gas, clothes, prescriptions, blah blah blah. Yes, I know I need these things, but that goes back to what the point of living is. Yes I know, life isn't just about having fun. But...in a way it kind of is, right?

Why shouldn't we spend money on the memories? Why not go to that music festival?

Youth. The freest time of our lives. How should we spend it?