It is said that Majnun, consumed by the love of Layla, abandoned civilization and lived in the wilderness for years. Eventually, after numerous trials, Layla approached Majnun and proposed marriage. Majnun, initially astonished, rubbed his eyes to discern whether he was dreaming or awake. When assured of his wakefulness, he replied to Layla, “Go back to where you were, for I am entangled in the sorrow of your absence, and I find solace in the torment and longing caused by your distance.”
You might find it surprising, but this narrative encapsulates the essence of many love stories. Perhaps one reason why romantic tales often end in bitterness is that the storyteller does not have a specific plan for the time of reunion.
Frequently, in our endeavors to attain something or someone, we persist for extended periods. The more challenging the acquisition, the more intense our yearning becomes. Yet, we often neglect to ask ourselves, “What next?”
Freedom, justice, and many other valuable concepts are cherished ideals that have compelled countless lives throughout history. However, have we ever questioned why we desire freedom? Why do we seek justice?
You might argue that the affinity for such values is innate and questioning their rationale is futile. Humans inherently cherish valuable concepts such as freedom, justice, honesty, loyalty, and love, celebrating and idealizing them.
However, examining human behavior reveals that individuals often misutilize their freedom. For instance, they harm the freedom of others or make incorrect choices when presented with options while claiming to be free.
They adhere to justice only when it benefits them, deeming it undesirable and unpleasant whenever it opposes their interests. Thus, love and belief in moral virtues and human values are not as straightforward as they may seem.
Where does the problem truly lie? It can be said that the only concept inherently ingrained in humans, exempt from questioning, is “self-love.” Humans are naturally in love with themselves, and one cannot ask why they love themselves so much.
Our minds inherently measure the value of everything based on our inclinations. If one desires something or someone, it is ultimately for their own sake. Conversely, if they abstain from something or someone, it is for their own sake.
So, how can we find common ground between human internal inclinations and ethical values that facilitates the practice of moral virtues?
Let us reconsider valuable concepts such as freedom, liberty, justice, honesty, and humanity.
