Reality Encyclopedia

Once again, it's that time of year. Halloween is rolling around, and the theme of horror will take hold in many cultures this upcoming October 31st. As a legitimate tradition, it seemed appropriate to explore the Halloween theme in an encyclopedia on reality. While a wide variety of topics may be explored in relation to this theme, a common symbol of Halloween is the Jack-O'Lantern . On the night of trick or treating, their omnipresent carved faces illuminate the dark streets on each child's quest for candy and sweets. But where did these figures originate, and what was the purpose of their invention? Let us examine further The traditional Jack-O'Lantern was created through the festival of Samhain , which involved the use of lighting inside of vegetables, usually turnips and potatoes, combined with the carvings of grotesque faces to create the appearance of evil spirits. It was believed on October 31st that the barrier between the spirit world and earth was weakened, al...

  “The meaning of life is just to be alive. It is so plain and so obvious and so simple. And yet, everybody rushes around in a great panic as if it were necessary to achieve something beyond themselves.” -Alan Watts What is the purpose of life? This is a question that my audience has surely pondered at some indeterminate point. Whether it be a passing thought upon morning wakening, a demonic-like apparition continuously haunting one's day to day, or a lingering question with which one tries to avoid or resolve, humans are the only known creature who require an explanation for our existence. With this necessity, we seek meaning in various narratives, practices and ideologies offered via society. Many seek refuge in the midst of religion, finding meaning in service of God(s) or a higher power. Various philosophies offer an assertment as to one how ought to live in order to embue there lives with meaning. Some individuals drown themselves into relentless work, repeating the same actio...