Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3125: Steve Pavlina explores the metaphor of life as a forge, shaping us through experiences into unique, conscious beings. He challenges the notion of dissolving into unconscious oneness after death, proposing instead that the purpose of life might be to develop a strong, individual consciousness that wishes to continue its journey beyond the mortal realm. Pavlina's insights offer a fresh perspective on personal development and the value of actively participating in shaping one's character. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://stevepavlina.com/blog/2015/06/the-forge-of-life/ Quotes to ponder: "We come into this world like blocks of marble, and we’re sculpted by experience." "What if instead of dissolving into the light, the point of life is to develop such a strong individual consciousness that we don’t want to dissolve into unconscious oneness afterwards?" "Embrace the new. I’ve found that when I do this, I have few regrets." Episode references: Tim Freke's official website: https://timfreke.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices