What is Life?

Life holds intriguing mysteries, one of which is - when is George’s birthday? His birth certificate says he was born just after midnight on February 25 in 1943, but family members say he was actually born just before midnight. George didn’t even know about this discrepancy until he was an adult. For that reason we will celebrate George’s birthday for the rest of February as we look at some of his best love songs, starting with today’s song “What is Life?” 

Initially written for Billy Preston to sing, producer Phil Spector convinced George to keep it for himself. The song explodes with energy and longing, asking life's biggest question through the lens of romantic love. It became one of George's most popular solo tracks, proving he could write sophisticated love songs. His years of spiritual seeking had taught him that the paths to enlightenment and human connection are intertwined.

Fundamental questions about existence often lead us back to the people who make living worthwhile. George's enthusiasm in this track contrasts beautifully with his more contemplative work. The driving rhythm and passionate vocal delivery convey the enthusiasm of someone who has found what he's been seeking. The song doesn't provide intellectual answers but emotional ones: life without love isn't really life at all.

Everything else in life, achievements, possessions, even spiritual awakening, feels hollow without someone to share it with. George recognized how shallow life is without the ones you love and being loved in return.

Today, I will consider how the people I love give my life meaning beyond any individual accomplishments.

What makes your life feel worth living beyond career success or personal achievement? How do your closest relationships shape your answer to life's fundamental questions?