We Could Be Much Worse

Summary

A contemplative individual grapples with existential thoughts while gazing at the night sky, leading to a profound realization of human limitations and the vastness of the universe, and ultimately finding solace in embracing the unknown and the potential for growth.

Abstract

The narrative "We Could Be Much Worse" by Gustave Deresse delves into the inner thoughts of a person standing alone on a balcony at night, confronting the enormity of the universe and the insignificance of individual concerns. The protagonist, while initially overwhelmed by the realization of the vast unknown, finds comfort in the acceptance of life's uncertainties and the continuous opportunity for personal development. The story emphasizes the struggle to maintain balance and direction amidst the chaos of existence, advocating for the use of critical thought and trust in one's understanding to navigate through life's complexities.

Opinions

The protagonist acknowledges the rarity of contemplating the stars during daylight, highlighting a common human tendency to overlook the profound beauty of the universe in our daily lives.
There is a recognition of the limits of human perception and the inability to fully comprehend the "wholeness of existence."
The narrative suggests that a shift in perspective can drastically alter one's understanding of life and reality, potentially leading to a transformative experience.
The protagonist expresses a fear of losing balance and direction due to the overwhelming nature of the unknown and the absence of stable ground in understanding.
Despite the recognition of illusions and the inevitability of mistakes, there is an optimistic view that growth and learning are always within reach, providing a path forward.
The story conveys a sense of self-compassion, emphasizing that beating oneself up over mistakes is not conducive to personal development.
The protagonist's internal dialogue reveals a self-awareness of their limitations, yet also a sense of hope that things could always be worse, implying a resilient attitude towards life's challenges.

by Gustave Deresse

It’s late, and no moon may be found upon the sky. I pace the brief length of my balcony, addressing what I can only label as ‘myself’. Steadily, I slide into a downward mental spiral harbouring no end in sight. Oh, I know there’s nothing wrong, but somewhere in my heart stands disagreement.

Until you looked into the night sky and realized how seldom you think of stars during the hours of daylight.

Yes, we forget about them.

Distracted, my sight pins on a lone spark shimmering in the distance above. I can’t imagine what I miss in a single moment, what I might see, given true abilities to detect. For physical beings, the wholeness of existence remains indescribable.

I’m overwhelmed by the firmament; the universe, as I knew it a moment ago, fades into silence.

Suddenly, an alternative perspective arises, a new lens through which I must now sense and understand my life and reality. In ordinary circumstances, this would be tremendous.

Just having realized the endless beauty, the grandeur, the vastness of the unknown encompassing us all — it’s cataclysmic! For what can be done without synchronicity?

How will I attain balance where no ground may be proven stable?

How do you expect to take direction, lacking a consistent sense of knowledge on your path?

Stop!

Please, not today.

If it’s true that not everything real can be sensed, and that we can experience the unexisting… then I’ll settle with whatever feeling of trust accessible to me; to the best of my capacity, I’ll employ critical thought.

There is a version of everything I understand; this is my guiding light.

You don’t know what that means!

Perhaps, but unknowns can only be given so much weight, before we’re forced to elect the clearest discernable path. Sure, illusions exist, and mistakes are natural plus bound to happen! I can’t beat myself up while growth and learning are ever options.

You poor, depraved fool.

Yes, dear friend — but we could be much worse.

Short-Fiction

We Could Be Much Worse

by Gustave Deresse