Meaning

This chapter examines the human search for meaning as a central element of spirituality. Drawing on existentialist thought, it argues that life is inherently meaningful through our efforts to make sense of experiences, particularly in challenging or unfamiliar situations. The chapter introduces the concept of narrative as a primary means by which individuals construct meaning and shape their worldviews. It explores how professional helpers can use narrative therapy to identify and renegotiate disempowering stories that hinder personal growth or recovery. The text also emphasizes that creating meaning is not exclusive to religious belief; secular approaches, including those grounded in existential responsibility, are equally valid. Practitioners are invited to consider meaning not as a fixed entity but as a dynamic process embedded in human responses to life’s events.