Is it bettter to live ignorantly in bliss, or is it better to be aware of the ups and downs in the world?

[Rich]

I ponder over this question much of the time. Which life is better? Maybe I should clarify the difference a bit better. We'll see if people understand as is.

[Lyn]

I think it's better to know the harsh realities of the world. So many billions of people live in utterly desperate conditions.
Bliss is for children and those very few who are fortunate enough to have found true love. When one begins to lose blissful ignorance and realizes the struggles necessary to enjoy a few precious moments of bliss, he or she is no longer a child. Also referred to as growing up. RIP bliss.

[Rich]

beautiful.

[Rich]

This kinda brings in some more factors. 1- How frequent do you think one circumstance is in comparison to the other? 2- You really think the the two are generally equal in value?

[Lyn]

Emily Dickinson wrote so many years ago:

"For each ecstatic instant, we must an anguish pay"...

Sometimes, it seems like the anguish far outscores the ecstasy, but it is - like you have said - life's ups and downs. I think it depends on your outlook in life. I have seen many people with what would outwardly appear to be insurmountable heart breaking circumstances. Yet they seem happy and satisfied with their lot in life. I have seen privileged people become despondent over their circumstances, regardless how trivial that circumstance seems to outsiders.

So it is your inner sense of self and how you reconcile your thoughts and deeds to your conscience: that is you. I think a person chooses how to react to stimulus in life and makes decisions on how to perceive either the thrills of life or the disappointments. Both will always be there.

[Rich]

I still question how frequently one occurs in relation to the other. I mean surely there would be lots of trouble if everyone was aware of what goes on in the world and what certain things mean in the world (as 9 said). This question is a bit complex because of the paradox. Not too sure if there's really an answer.

[Rich]

Seems from this that there's more than just a paradox.

[Rich]

I just realized my second question there really is another form of the main question since it completely depends on your answer to the main question.

[thwbi09]

2nd option is better..

[Kayra Jordyn]

Hahaha. Beautiful. I want to quote you every other hour.

[Kayra Jordyn]

I often wish for ignorance. But then I'd be just another pitiable fool.

[Rich]

ohhhhh man I like that post. Thanks for sharing.

[PJAAI4]

Allegory of the Cave.

 

Here is a follow up question.  Will you tell others what you have discover?