The Second Mountain

The Second Mountain argues that the key to living a meaningful, fulfilling, and happy life is not found in the pursuit of self-improvement but instead a life of service to others.

Individualism is rampant in our world. Everywhere we turn, we see people telling us to do whatever we want, follow our desires, and focus on ourselves. We are taught to resist any commitment that could limit our personal freedom, such as being religious or starting a family. Unfortunately, this way of thinking sets us apart from others, which negates the benefits that communities provide.

Whether you like it or not, the loneliness that results from doing things your way and living free is harmful to society. Less than ¼ of Americans trust their government, and the number of people who know their neighbors is decreasing also. We are becoming increasingly lonely, and we see higher rates of depression and suicide as a result. People don’t have a feeling of grounding anymore because they are climbing the first mountain of material success.

While you may experience some prosperity after scaling this peak, you will still end up feeling that you are missing something from your life. The problem is that the pursuit of personal enjoyment is fleeting because it only comes when we’ve completed a goal. Life then becomes a sea of sadness, with little bits of pleasure scattered in between. So what are we to do about this dilemma we are all experiencing?

Now, before you start groaning at how difficult it can be to lose yourself in the care of others, it’s not all so terrible. It is wise to begin your ascent up the second mountain by asking yourself, “what’s in it for me?”

First, you don’t have to give up your goals entirely to help other people. It’s not about avoiding happiness as much as not making it your sole focus. Additionally, flawed as happiness is, it’s nothing compared to joy, which is a more constant and profound sense of emotional well-being.

Instead of a quest for self-fulfillment, the path to joy is about self-transcendence. When you give your time and energy to others, enjoy their company, and help them rise higher, you improve their lives. You will experience joy as you are uplifted by seeing those you aid ascend with your help. This is how it feels to scale the second mountain, but also know that there is work ahead.

While it may sound easy to make this journey about being friendly and loving toward everyone, you need to be aware of some harsh realities of the second mountain. When you let others into your life to help them, you expose yourself to their trauma.…